The Karl-Renner-Institut, with the kind support of the International Institute for Peace, cordially invites you to the following event:
KOSOVO: THE YOUNG DEMOCRATIC STATE AS PAWN OF GEOPOLITICAL INTERESTS
Date: Monday, 13 November 2023
Time: 6:00 PM
Venue: Karl-Renner-Institut, Karl-Popper-Straße 8, 1100 Vienna & Facebook/YouTube Livestream
Panelists:
ALBIN KURTI, Prime Minister of Kosovo, Lëvizja Vetëvendosje
Moderation:
MARIA MALTSCHNIG, Director of the Karl-Renner-Institut
Content:
As Europe's youngest state, Kosovo is striving to evolve into a stable democratic nation based on the principles of the rule of law and human rights. The establishment of democratic institutions in a society that has experienced suppression and war presents a significant challenge in itself. Furthermore, the relationship with Serbia, which is increasingly being governed in an authoritarian manner, places considerable strain on the state. Periods of limited progress in the EU-facilitated dialogue between Pristina and Belgrade alternate with phases of violence and escalation. Here come also geopolitics into play: Russia, along with China, staunchly opposes Kosovo's independence. Despite its small size, Kosovo risks becoming a pawn in geopolitical interests and conflicts.
How can Kosovo ensure its survival of the state in the midst of geopolitical turmoil? How can it strengthen its commitment to democracy and the rule of law under these challenging circumstances? A further question is how the Kosovar society is able to develop a healthy national consciousness without succumbing to nationalism and chauvinism, which are widespread burdens in the Western Balkans, but also in other parts of Europe.
We will engage with Prime Minister Albin Kurti to discuss the future of Kosovo and his plans for building a democratic state with an open society and equal rights for all citizens.
The discussion will be held in English.
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