Visa-free travel to the Schengen area for citizens of Kosovo entered into force
In recent months, the Kosovan government has been running a campaign urging citizens not to misuse the upcoming freedom of travel to look for a job in the EU. The government in Pristina sees the reform as a further step towards full recognition of Kosovo, which has been independent since 2008, and EU accession.
According to the EU Commission, Kosovo had already fulfilled all the conditions for visa-free entry into the Schengen area in 2018. However, the entry into force of the travel facilitation was blocked by France and the Netherlands, who feared a new wave of migration.
EU members Cyprus, Greece, Romania, Slovakia and Spain also opposed the reform. These five countries do not recognize Kosovo's independence. This also represents a significant obstacle to the small Balkan country joining the EU. Kosovo, which is predominantly inhabited by ethnic Albanians, declared its independence from Serbia in 2008, almost a decade after the Kosovo War. Serbia does not recognize this step either.
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The news of visa-free travel to the Schengen area by virtue of Kosovo's independence has been widely celebrated in Pristina. This New Year's celebration marks a significant milestone for Kosovan Citizens. Despite initial opposition from France and Netherlands, the EU eventually granted Kosovo's long-awaited visa-free travel privilege. However, this reform may face further challenges as EU members like Cyprus, Greece, Romania, Slovakia, and Spain, who do not recognize Kosovo's independence, may express their reservations. Consequently, the small Balkan country may find it harder to secure its desired EU accession.
In contrast, neighbouring Serbia still opposes Kosovo's independence, much like it did during the Kosovo War almost a decade ago. Regardless, Kosovo's citizens are now looking forward to the opportunity to travel to the Schengen room without the need for a visa.
Source: www.stern.de
