Kosovo PM Accuses Serbia of 'Gross Violation of Human Rights' as Citizens Detained at Border

Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti has strongly condemned the detention of Kosovo citizens at border crossings by Serbian authorities, calling it a "gross violation of human rights." The incident has further escalated tensions between the two countries, with Kurti demanding the immediate release of the detained individuals.

According to reports, Serbian border officials have been arbitrarily detaining Kosovo citizens attempting to cross into Serbia, subjecting them to lengthy interrogations and confiscating their documents. The move has been seen as a deliberate attempt by Serbia to harass and intimidate Kosovo citizens, many of whom have family and business ties across the border.

In a statement released by his office, Prime Minister Kurti accused Serbia of "blatant discrimination" and "abuse of power," stating that the detentions were a clear violation of international law and human rights norms. He called on the international community to intervene and pressure Serbia to end its "provocative and destabilizing actions."

Why this matters: The detention of Kosovo citizens at the Serbian border has the potential to further inflame tensions between the two countries, which have a long history of conflict and mistrust. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges in normalizing relations and ensuring the free movement of people between Kosovo and Serbia.

The European Union, which has been mediating talks between Kosovo and Serbia, expressed concern over the detentions and called for restraint on both sides. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell urged the two countries to "refrain from any unilateral actions that could lead to further escalation" and to "engage in constructive dialogue to resolve outstanding issues."

Kosovo, which declared independence from Serbia in 2008, has been recognized by over 100 countries, including the United States and most EU member states. However, Serbia has refused to recognize Kosovo's independence and continues to consider it a part of its territory. The dispute has been a major obstacle to both countries' aspirations to join the European Union.

Prime Minister Kurti reiterated Kosovo's commitment to dialogue and peaceful resolution of the issues with Serbia, but stressed that his government would not tolerate any violations of the rights of Kosovo citizens. "We will use all available diplomatic and legal means to protect our citizens and ensure their freedom of movement," he said.

Key Takeaways

• Kosovo PM condemns detention of Kosovo citizens by Serbia as "gross violation of human rights".
• Serbia accused of arbitrarily detaining Kosovo citizens, subjecting them to interrogation and document confiscation.
• EU calls for restraint and constructive dialogue to resolve issues between Kosovo and Serbia.
• Kosovo's independence from Serbia remains a major obstacle to both countries' EU accession.
• Kosovo vows to use diplomatic and legal means to protect its citizens and ensure their freedom of movement.