How has Kosovo's relationship with Serbia evolved since the conflict?

Kosovo's relationship with Serbia has remained tense and unresolved since the conflict, with ongoing political and territorial disputes.

The Kosovo-Serbia conflict, which took place in the late 1990s, was a violent struggle over territory and ethnic tensions. Since then, the relationship between the two entities has been marked by a lack of resolution and ongoing disputes. Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008, a move that Serbia, backed by its ally Russia, has refused to recognise. This has led to a stalemate situation, with both sides holding firm to their positions.

The European Union has attempted to mediate between the two, leading to the Brussels Agreement in 2013. This agreement was aimed at normalising relations and included provisions for the establishment of an Association/Community of Serb-majority municipalities in Kosovo. However, implementation has been slow and fraught with difficulties. Both sides have accused each other of failing to uphold their commitments, leading to a breakdown in dialogue.

The relationship has also been marked by sporadic flare-ups of violence. In 2018, a prominent Serb politician in Kosovo was assassinated, leading to heightened tensions. There have also been incidents of ethnic violence, particularly in the north of Kosovo, which is predominantly Serb.

In recent years, there have been attempts to restart dialogue and find a solution to the ongoing dispute. The United States has taken a more active role, leading to a series of agreements in 2020 on economic normalisation. However, these have been criticised for failing to address the core political issues, and it remains to be seen whether they will lead to a lasting resolution.

In conclusion, the relationship between Kosovo and Serbia since the conflict has been characterised by ongoing political and territorial disputes, sporadic violence, and a lack of resolution. Despite attempts at mediation and dialogue, a lasting solution to the conflict remains elusive.