Challenges to Kosovo Independence

Kosovo’s recent declaration of Independence has triggered violent responses from its Serb-dominated northern territories, and continued diplomatic pressure from Serbia.

It only took four days after Kosovo’s declaration of independence before NATO troops and UN police mobilized to secure the new nation’s northern borders. This action is in response to violent protests by angry Serbs and continuing threats against Kosovo’s new-born sovereignty.

The demonstrations, including the torching of border checkpoints by Kosovo Serbs. These protests have no connection to the Serbian government, which continues its diplomatic attempts to have the breakaway nation’s declaration annulled.

Another dangerous situation occurred near the Albanian village of Chabra in northern Kosovo, when a mob of Serbs armed with spades and pickaxe handles pushed back ethnic Albanian police officers.

Rumors point to a Serbian plan of action including intimidation of the United Nations and Kosovar police service, that would culminate in the partitioning of Kosovo to protect the northern Serbs.

Many people are happy for Kosovo’s ethnic Albanians, but are horrified at Serb protests that have followed Sunday’s announcement. It is scary, but national independence rarely comes easy - just think of what it took for America to gain its independence from England.

At least Kosovo has the backing of the UN, as well as the United States and many European neighbors. In the coming weeks, expect to see more violent protests and continued pressure from Serbia to have Kosovo’s declaration repealed, but Kosovo will remain an independent state.