Nathalie Bertrams is a freelance journalist, photographer, and National Geographic Explorer known for her in-depth reporting on environmental conflicts, human rights and social justice issues, mainly across Africa. Her work has been featured in prominent media outlets, including The Guardian, ...

Criminal dies in Serbia

31 Jul 2024  |  De Groene Amsterdammer  |  Dutch  |  Social Media

Faton Hajrizi, a notorious Kosovar criminal known for his repeated prison escapes, was killed by Serbian police in Loznica after shooting a Serbian border police officer. His death has sparked controversy, with accusations against Serbia for harboring criminals and criticism of Kosovo's lenient prison policies. Hajrizi had gained fame for mocking authorities on social media during his escapes. The incident highlights ongoing tensions and differing approaches to criminal rehabilitation between Serbia and Kosovo.

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Kosovo Government Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs

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STEAMROLLED: A Special Investigation into the Diplomacy of Doing Business Abroad

30 Jan 2015  |  Foreign Policy  |  English  |  Corruption

The article investigates the controversial business practices of Bechtel, an American construction and engineering corporation, in the Balkans, particularly focusing on the $1.3 billion Kosovo Highway project. It highlights the role of former U.S. Ambassador Christopher Dell in influencing the awarding of the contract to Bechtel, despite opposition from international institutions like the World Bank and IMF. The investigation reveals concerns about high costs, lack of transparency, and potential corruption, with significant economic implications for Kosovo. The article also discusses the broader issue of the revolving door between U.S. diplomats and Bechtel, raising questions about conflicts of interest and the intersection of U.S. foreign policy and corporate interests.

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Kosovo Government U.S. State Department World Bank IMF EULEX

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Kristen Chick is a journalist based in the UK and working throughout Europe and the Middle East. She reports on gender, conflict, and migration.

Ending the Shame of Kosovo’s Rape Victims

22 Feb 2016  |  Foreign Policy  |  English  |  Human Rights

For nearly 17 years, K.T. and thousands of other survivors of wartime sexual violence in Kosovo have lived with stigma and shame. In 2014, Kosovo's parliament recognized these survivors as war victims, entitling them to state pensions. However, the application process, though designed to be confidential and sensitive, faces challenges including societal shame, exclusion of ethnic Serbian victims, and potentially low pension amounts. The article highlights the efforts of local organizations and the government to support survivors, while also addressing the shortcomings and ongoing struggles faced by these women.

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Kosovo Liberation Army Kosovo Government Human Rights Watch NATO Amnesty International Kosova Rehabilitation Center for Torture Victims Medica Gjakova Center for Promotion of Women’s Rights Advocacy Center for Democratic Culture Santa Marija

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Eraldin Fazliu is a journalist based in Pristina, .

Kreshnik Gashi is a journalist based in Pristina, .

The false statement that Vjosa Osmani did not invite anyone from the Government of Albania to the Forum for Women, Peace and Security

23 Oct 2022  |  Raporto Korrupsionin! KALLXO.com  |  Albanian  |  Women's Issues

An article on gazetapapirus.com falsely claimed that Kosovo's President Vjosa Osmani did not invite any officials from the Albanian Government to the Forum for Women, Peace and Security. KALLXO.com debunked this by confirming that Albania's Foreign Minister Olta Xhaçka was invited but could not attend due to other commitments. The forum, supported by EULEX and organized by the Office of the President of Kosovo and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, took place in Pristina on October 22 and 23, featuring 16 panels on various security architecture, representation of women, youth challenges, the role of parliaments, transitional justice, media and civil society, violence against women, climate change, economic empowerment of women, and women in the security and IT sectors.

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Office of the President of Kosovo Government of Albania EULEX

Valerie Hopkins is currently the South-East Europe Correspondent for the Financial Times, where she covers the region out of Budapest. She has more than ten years of experience working in South-Eastern Europe. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Guardian The Atlantic, The Washington ...

Set the Trojan Horse on Fire

04 Feb 2015  |  Foreign Policy  |  English  |  Economic Issues

Kosovo is experiencing significant unrest due to economic stagnation, political tensions, and dissatisfaction with the government's handling of Serbian influence. Protests erupted following inflammatory remarks by Serbian List minister Aleksandar Jablanovic and the government's decision to backtrack on nationalizing the Trepca mine. The situation underscores the ongoing struggle for true independence and the complexities of Kosovo-Serbia relations, with the European Union playing a mediating role. The political landscape is further complicated by the presence of the Serbian List in Kosovo's government, leading to increased tensions and calls for greater autonomy.

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Kosovo Government Serbian List European Union

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Klaudjo Jonuzaj is a journalist based in Tirana, Albania. I have a important experience working with international media in English. I follow current affairs in Albania and Kosovo.

Well-known entrepreneur Dritan Mezini passes away

12 Jan 2024  |  telegrafi.com  |  Albanian  |  Obituary

Dritan Mezini, a renowned expert in employment and information technology, has unexpectedly passed away. His death is a loss not only to his family and acquaintances but also to the academic world, public opinion, and the country's economy, where he was an innovator and a brave initiator of significant projects. Prime Minister Edi Rama expressed his condolences. Mezini had over 27 years of experience and contributed to digital transformation, e-commerce, project management, and human resources. He advised the private and public sectors, led the association of information and communication technology, founded the startup duapune.com, and was involved in EU working groups for modern technology. Mezini was also a public speaker and distinguished trainer in using technology for successful business, both domestically and internationally. He held degrees in Computer Science from the University of Tirana and two Master's degrees from Western Illinois University and Keller Graduate School of Management at DeVry University in Chicago, USA.

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Government of Kosovo

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Tim Judah covers the Balkans, and sometimes other places, for the Economist. 

He also covers Ukraine where he is now for the New York Review of Books. 

He wrote a book on the Ukraine conflict which was published by Penguin in 2015. 

He is the author of three books on the Balkans: The Serbs:...

Fr. Sava: Time to Go Forward and Start Dialogue

13 Nov 2015  |  Balkan Insight  |  English  |  EU Integration

Sava Janjic, the Abbot of Visoki Decani Monastery, emphasizes the need for dialogue within the Brussels process to ensure the protection of Serbian heritage in Kosovo. He criticizes the Kosovo government's attempts to pass discriminatory laws on cultural heritage and stresses the importance of international guarantees for the preservation of Serbian Orthodox sites. Janjic highlights the historical destruction of Serbian heritage sites and calls for a special status and protection for the Serbian Orthodox Church in Kosovo. He also discusses the challenges faced by Kosovo Serbs, including security concerns and opposition to their return.

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Kosovo Government Serbian Orthodox Church UNESCO

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Giada Kuka is a journalist based in Tirana, Albania.


I'm an Integrated Media major, with a passion for the arts, aesthetics, language, and human nature. 
Currently working as a journalist and content creator for a major news outlet in my country - my main focus here is world news, fact-...

Vucic boycotts the EU Summit: Nobody from Serbia will go to Tirana

06 Oct 2023  |  euronews.al  |  English  |  Serbia-Kosovo Relations

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic announced that Serbia will boycott the EU-Western Balkans Summit in Tirana on December 6, criticizing the EU's reaction to the appointment of Nenad Rasic as a minister in the Government of Kosovo. Vucic emphasized the need for the EU to respect Serbia and its citizens, highlighting the importance of adhering to agreements made in Brussels. The summit aims to reaffirm the strategic partnership between the EU and the Western Balkans.

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Government of Kosovo Council of the European Union Euronews Serbia

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Andrew MacDowall is a experienced correspondent, analyst, and consultant covering Central and Eastern Europe and the Balkans. He has also done substantial work in the MENA region and South-East Asia as a business journalist and analyst. He has written for publications including the Guardian, ...

Could land swap between Serbia and Kosovo lead to conflict?

22 Aug 2018  |  the Guardian  |  English  |  Ethnic Tensions

The article explores the potential consequences of a proposed land swap between Serbia and Kosovo, which aims to resolve long-standing disputes and facilitate European integration. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and Kosovan President Hashim Thaçi are considering partitioning Kosovo along ethnic lines, a move that has sparked significant controversy and concern. Critics argue that such a partition could destabilize the Balkans, reignite ethnic tensions, and set a dangerous precedent. The international community is divided on the issue, with some countries open to the idea while others, like Germany, remain opposed. The article highlights the complex political dynamics and the potential risks associated with the proposed land swap.

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Kosovo Government Serbian Government EU Serbian Orthodox Church

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Mwangi Maina is a Multimedia journalist working for KTN News, Kenya's leading 24 Hour TV Channel in Eastern Africa as a Content Producer. I cover topics ranging from Politics, Regional affairs (Africa's Great Lakes Region), Media Freedom, Fake news as well as human interest stories. I also write ...

Ruto Bids Farewell to Serbian Envoy Amidst Kosovo Tensions

05 Oct 2023  |  kenyanforeignpolicy.com  |  English  |  Trade

Kenyan President William Ruto bid farewell to Serbian Ambassador Dragan Zupanjevac, marking the end of his six-year tenure in Kenya. The meeting underscored Kenya's intent to strengthen trade and investment ties with Serbia. However, tensions arise as Kenya moves towards recognizing Kosovo's independence, a stance that has irritated Serbia. Foreign Minister Alfred Mutua confirmed ongoing discussions for full recognition of Kosovo, following President Ruto's meeting with Kosovan leader Vjosa Osmani at the UNGA. This shift in policy reflects Ruto's longstanding connection with Pristina and Kenya's recent recognition of Kosovan passports. The diplomatic efforts have been met with discontent from Serbia, but Kenya remains committed to supporting Kosovo's sovereignty.

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Kosovo Government Serbian Government Kenyan Government United Nations

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Fatjona Mejdini is a journalist based in Tirana, Albania. I have a long experience working for English media language in the region. I follow closely the current affairs in Albania, Kosovo and Macedonia.

Feuding Leaders of Albania and Kosovo Quietly ‘Forget’ Joint Govt Meetings

14 Oct 2024  |  Balkan Insight  |  English  |  Bilateral Agreements

Albania and Kosovo had planned their ninth joint governmental meeting in Gjakova/Djakovica in June 2023, aiming to sign several new bilateral agreements. Despite extensive preparations, the meeting did not occur, reflecting ongoing tensions between the two nations. Joint meetings, initiated in 2014, symbolize efforts to unite Albanians across borders.

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Government of Kosovo Government of Albania

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Tommaso Meo is a journalist based in Rome, Italy.

Energy is becoming the real enemy of bitcoin and cryptocurrencies

15 Jan 2022  |  Wired Italia  |  Italian  |  Regulation

Bitcoin and cryptocurrency mining are facing increasing scrutiny and bans due to their high energy consumption and regulatory challenges. China has imposed significant restrictions, leading to a mining exodus to countries like Kazakhstan, which now faces its own energy crisis and public protests. Kosovo has banned mining to address energy shortages, and Iran has a complicated relationship with mining due to sanctions. The European Union is also considering bans, with Sweden's financial regulator calling for a halt to mining. Amidst these challenges, a project named Cryptoland aims to create a self-sufficient cryptocurrency community on an island, though its feasibility remains uncertain.

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Government of Iran Government of Kazakhstan Government of Kosovo Government of China European Union

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British journalist, editor, and researcher. Work published in the Guardian, POLITICO Europe, New Statesman, Vice, The Moscow Times, and New Eastern Europe. 

Now primarily in London/Baltics but open to Russia-based commissions with the appropriate arrangements.

Kosovo shuts main border crossing after Serbs block roads

01 Oct 2023  |  www.thetimes.com  |  English  |  International Relations

Serbia has heightened its military readiness and increased special forces in response to escalating tensions with Kosovo, where Serbs have erected roadblocks following the arrest of a Kosovo Serb policeman. Serbia's defense minister expressed readiness for a deal, while Kosovo's government called for NATO intervention. Russia supports Serbia, and Germany warns against military escalation. The conflict traces back to a ban on Belgrade-issued vehicle plates, leading to mass resignations of ethnic Serb staff in Kosovo, creating a security vacuum.

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Kosovo Government Nato Kremlin

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Ivana Nikolic is a journalist based in Belgrade, Serbia.
Work experience
•	June 2019 – present 
Fixer and mentor on the documentary project of the British documentary filmmaker Joseph Shawyer. Responsible for finding interviewees, translations, etc.
•	June 2018 – present
Eastern European ...

Facebook Satirists Plan Kelmendi Welcome Party in Serbia

08 Aug 2016  |  Balkan Insight  |  English  |  Kosovo-Serbia Relations

After Majlinda Kelmendi won Kosovo's first Olympic medal, a satirical Facebook event was created to mockingly celebrate her victory in front of the Belgrade City Assembly, a traditional spot for welcoming Serbian athletes. The event highlights the ongoing political tensions between Serbia and Kosovo, with references to Serbian nationalists' sentiments and the Serbian government's policies towards Kosovo athletes. The article also mentions the Serbian government's incentives for Olympic winners, including cash prizes and Fiat 500 L cars.

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Kosovo Serbian Government Serbian Nationalists

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Milivoje Pantovic is a investigative journalist based in Beograd, Serbia. He is specialized in the fields of domestic politics, foreign politics and culture. Milivoje was a journalist and editor in Serbian news agencies Tanjug and Beta, TV stations B92 and BK, newspaper "Politika", editor in ...

Serbia Rejects Kosovo’s Trepca Mine Takeover

11 Oct 2016  |  Balkan Insight  |  English  |  Resource Ownership

Serbia's government, led by Prime Minister Aleksandar Vucic, has rejected Kosovo's decision to take control of the Trepca mining complex, a vital resource for Serbs in northern Kosovo. Vucic declared the decision null and void, emphasizing the importance of protecting ownership rights and refusing to recognize Kosovo as a state. Kosovo's parliament passed a law transforming Trepca into a shareholding company, with the government controlling 80% of the shares. The move has sparked protests from opposition MPs, Kosovo Serb miners, and the Serbian government, highlighting the ongoing ethnic and political tensions in the region.

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Kosovo Parliament Kosovo Government Serbian Government

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Visar Prebreza is a journalist.

Exaggeration of a statement made by Albin Kurti about recognition from Serbia

27 Mar 2023  |  kallxo.com  |  Albanian  |  Kosovo-Serbia Relations

The article addresses the exaggeration of a statement made by Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti regarding Serbia's recognition of Kosovo. It clarifies that the original article from promakale.com lacked evidence to support its headline claim. Kurti has consistently mentioned the need for Serbia to recognize Kosovo de jure, and the article emphasizes that his statements about de facto recognition through the Ohrid Agreement are not unexpected.

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Government of Serbia Government of Kosovo Top Channel Albania

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Dahlia Scheindlin is a journalist and a public opinion expert; she is also a political analyst and campaign advisor with twenty years of experience, specializing in liberal and progressive social causes. Dahlia has advised eight national campaigns in Israel and has worked in 15 other countries ...

The Dangerous Politics of Playing the Victim

04 Jul 2019  |  Foreign Policy  |  English  |  International Relations

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic have both used narratives of victimhood to consolidate power and justify their countries' aggressive actions. Despite facing allegations of corruption and authoritarian tactics, they have maintained support by portraying themselves as defenders of their nations. However, growing domestic protests indicate that their strategies may be reaching a breaking point, as citizens become less tolerant of governance perceived as self-serving rather than self-sacrificing.

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Kosovo Liberation Army Serbian Government Israeli Government NATO United Nations International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia

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