EULEX: Progress in north only by dialogue

Ataman,

While I do work for EULEX I would agree with you, as would many colleagues, that this mission has been a whole lot of nothing. It seems that Brussels never intended us to do much because they tied our hands from the very beginning. Add the Kosovo Criminal Code to the mix and you will see that it was clearly written by lawyers and police were never brought into its formation. I could write a book on the problems with the KCC alone. Our executive department has to deal with corrupt locals in most cases, and in the event an arrest could be made, Brussels may interfere so as not to upset anyone. Add to the fact that foreign intelligence services are often paying the very criminals we investigate, you can see why its a failure.

As for the north, I am not sure what the big hooplah is about - EULEX has been in the north since day 1. The only change is that they will allow members to live in the north now, so they will soon have 50% less rent to pay and not be screwed by landlords. Otherwise, it is business as usual I am afraid. That said, its a job and a good way for some of us to live in Serbia and see Europe.

'“We need to find united points and stop creating myths about the status of Kosovo," he said,' - Michael Giffoni, Italian emissary to the regime in Occupied Kosovo.

I hope this man is serious about trying to end the creating of myths about Kosovo's status, once and for all.
Kosovo i Metohija is not an internationally recognised country. It doesn't matter what sixty something countries have been coerced into recognising.
The fact of the matter is that International Law was broken on 17 Feb'08 with that ill-fated UDI.

The peaceful resolution of the problems in Kosovo must be dealt with in a conference involving Belgrade and Pristina only.
I feel that the Americans and the Germans particularly, should not be invited to such talks unless they were to arrive at the end with their cheque books to pay war reparations.

MB,Ireland

EULEX can move there as long as Pristina does not. They can function as the equivalent to Bosnia's High Representative. But other than that, I wonder how they're going to disassemble the institutions that are already firmly embedded in the absence of some negotiated deal with Belgrade. If Bosnia is any indication, the future doesn't look as bright as they might envision.
(Mike, 30 January 2010 17:26)

Exactly, Mike. EULEX has been here all along and had no problems because it has not forced any issues on the Serbian institutions. No force will be used from the EU side as they have noted repeatedly, so basically this is just talk to appease some radical elements in Pristina.

Sure, Pristina can cry and whine all they like, but at the end of the day, nothing changes. You made a good point yesterday - what does the average Albanian even care about north Kosovo? Furthermore, a bigger question is what do some of these pro-Albanian internationals care about the north? What could possibly be at stake for them? Seems to me like it is hate, pure and simple. Rather pathetic.

When cars with KS plates cannot even drive anywhere in Serbia (including the municipalities of Zvecan, Zubin Potok, Leposavic, and most of N. Mitro, it is plainly obvious that Pristina has no power here, nor will it ever. I think all this talk from ICO is simply an act of desperation.

There are no comments here so far - but probably just because of server issues. I am pretty sure, already dozens of people wrote and as usual the level of blood pressure is high.

Before you comment, please read this first-hand report from someone who is known to the international community in Pristina and is respected by all. Thanks.

http://mtcowgirl.us/kosovo/?p=175

My comment: if indeed as she wrote "Vetevendosje – 1, EULEX – 0" and they are scared of Albin Kurti that much - how about these "wild and savage" Serbs in North? Remember: "any vehicle not parked in a secured location that is damaged after working hours will become the responsibility of the staff member who parked the vehicle in that location".

EULEX seem to be intimidated and without visible presence in South. Now they may try in North. But what happens if Serbs there get the same idea what Albin Kurti got?

Luckily, I am not bound to be "politically correct", so I can say it honestly: what a useless way to spend money.

"The strategy was created by Feith and the temporary institutions in Priština"

Temporary institutions is all that they will ever be!

I don't realize the sense of Eulex here. There is no realistic chance the people of North Kosovo will comply with Eulex. The EU is just waisting time and money doing this. Although the 4 million they promised is not very much money, as Serbia has put aside 48 million for that part of Kosovo.

The problem is the people will not comply because they are not governed the least bit by Pristina institutions. This is not Strpce or Gracanica, you might get less than 30% Serbs voting there, but you will get less than 5% Serbs north of the Ibar.

It is insane to believe this has any realistic shot at working. However what's even more funny is when the EU realizes it won't work, they will be appalled and shocked the Serbs are so "uncooperative" similar to the way the Serbs in Bosnia are perceived.

Enough with these games, we cannot be bought. Kosovo is Serbia, we realize we don't control all of Kosovo. But for the parts we do control, we are not giving up.

EULEX spokesperson Karin Limdal said that the European officials who have been visiting northern Kosovo have the task of supporting the implementation of the plan of International Civil Office (ICO) Chief Pieter Feith.
--
This is Tadic's doing. He invited EULEX into Kosovo and he will be the one with blood on his hands.

Michael R

If Presevo and Kosovo belongs to albanians how come all cities and towns have Serbian names? Why don't you admit that you are using the imaginary illirians as an excuse to steal Serbian territory.

"EULEX personnel will be moving into northern Kosovo soon."

I thought they are already represented there? No? Anyway, notice that it is EULEX (and not Pristina) that is moving there.


"Feith’s strategy for northern Kosovo calls for the support of the “international community“ in direct links between Serbia’s European perspective and the decrease of Belgrade’s support for the “parallel“ structures in the north of Kosovo."

What is this "European perspective" that keeps cropping up in B92? It is really vague. How are Bosnians and Serbians and Albanians any less European than the French, Germans and Brits? Is it Nato membership? I don't think Serbians are exactly waxing lyrical about joining Nato. EU membership? Possibly. But unless and until the EU actually admits Serbia in might some Serbians (not all of them) be persuaded to let go of the parallel structures. And until this happens (in 2018 according to someone called Mircea on B92), Feith's strategy remains a no brainer.


"He said that “a mature approach must be adopted with a concentration on the possibility of dialogue between the communities, dealing with concrete questions and issues essential to the people.“

In other words he has discounted any force (just like Kermabon had earlier) and will have to talk and talkl and talk until his throat is hoarse to convince the K-Serbs ..... good luck to him!


“We need to find united points and stop creating myths about the status of Kosovo," he said, adding that he has “received encouraging signals from the local Serb community," the Italian agency stated."

No myths about Kosovo's status as far as 1244 is concerned.

Also, notice how he was careful not to elaborate on the so-called "encouraging signals" from the K-Serbs. Was his statement an honest one? I doubt so. And even if it was, how can he be so sure that the K-Serbs were not merely being polite to him when he visited them?

Luckily, I am not bound to be "politically correct", so I can say it honestly: what a useless way to spend money.
(Ataman, 30 January 2010, 12:12)


EULEX south of Ibar is doing absolutaly nothing. Might as well head north of Ibar. If you chechk every KP Police station and all Police RHQ, you will be lucky to see some eulex vehicles parked in the front between 8-9am during morning briefings, and that is it. The rest of the day , they are locked up in Log Bases or having coffees and lunches with their female language assistants.There is no different north of Ibar, just ask Jason to tell you about it, since he was deployed there.

This mission will fail and the uprising it causes will be ugly and well publicized. Don't pour gasoline over a fire...

Mike, Jason, I don't really think Serbians should let down their guard and expect nothing to happen. I suspect EULEX will attempt to boil a frog. I'm sure you guys know what I mean but for those that don't, check http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boiling_frog

As far as I'm concerned, EULEX has no business in Serbian controlled areas. Everything should be done to make it that way.

Ataman,

Interesting story. It makes me think the 4 million euros allotted for "integrating" the north may very well be spent either on replacing stolen tires from EULEX vehicles or busted headlights from angry Serbs. I wouldn't put it past them to do that. When I took one of those shuttle buses from KM to Gracanica, the bus at the station had KM plates. But knowing full well we'd be driving through Albanian territory, I wondered why the driver just didn't put the KS plates on before departure. As it turned out, we drove 4 or 5 blocks in KM before coming to a small (2 block) Albanian neighborhood north of the Ibar before the second, smaller bridge. It was then that he stopped the bus to change the plates. Apparently everyone learned just exactly *where* to change plates to avoid any wayward rocks being thrown. Interestingly enough, a few Serbs in Gracanica I know found a compromise solution by registering their cars in Novi Pazar. Apparently the "NP" prefix gives one all-access in Kosovo :)

Jason, it seems to me that EULEX may even be trying to beat Pristina to the punch. If we know anything about Eurocracy, it's that compromise for the sake of stability trumps whatever one side completely wants. Judging from comments here about EULEX's do-nothing policy, I suspect in a few months they'll be happily doing business with those very same "parallel" institutions they deem illegal or whatever. If the goal is to stramline something without any tension or aggression, I daresay EULEX will be doing anything else other than taking advantage of some really good burek and visiting the ruins of Zvecan fortress. Maybe they can organize a paint-ball tournament in the abandoned Trepca factories.

"EULEX south of Ibar is doing absolutaly nothing. Might as well head north of Ibar." (Kosova-USA)

-- To apparently do nothing there too, I assume. Wow, we actually agree on something. I was even compelled to "recommend" your post this time :)

With this latest move, €USSR seems hell-bent on starting another war in Bosnia. They just don´t have a clue how to force trough their local client´s sharia state.

This will undoubtly sooner rather than later lead to war, a war they & NATO will loose this time with a strong Russia taking position...

Unfortunately the Europeans and the Americans will appease those who create most problems. In this case its the albanians. Europe and America has done a lot for the Albanians but the Albanians don't give a damn. Unless Europe and the US continue with Albanian policies of intimidation and threats towards the Serbian community they will give EULEX and the international community hell. The albanians have proven several time what type of violence and intimidation they are capable off. Serbia has become a wimp. Even if northern Kosovo was attacked by Albanians the only thing Belgrade would do is file a complaint to the ICJ or some other useless organization that is already siding with the enemies of international law. Just like Tadic did after Mesic threatened RS. That's why I hope Serbs in Kosovo prepare for battle and trust only themselves.

As far as Eulex in North Kosova not willing to use force to control the unruly Serbs living there, did it ever occur to you that perhaps the ground work is being laid for the Presheva valley area to be annexed to Kosova. This is where it rightly belongs, if we are to use the same logic you use for Serbia wanting the north of Kosova and R.S.
(Michael R., 30 January 2010 19:55)

preshovo valley has 1 town with a albanian majority and allot are leaving so what are you saying then kosovo is serbia. we know that already

"EULEX and GoK (Government of Kosovo) will move into Little Columbia. Don't forgett the incident back when EULEX stormed the court in Mitrovica. As Serbia goes bankrupt, less and less money will be spent on these illegal parallel institutions whereas the GoK institutions are getting stronger (economically & physically).

Expect changes!!" (KOSOVARi)

-- How is what you envision any different from the fascistic policies of Milosevic? Some people just never learn, or refuse to learn. And try reading the article, my little armchair general. EULEX only wants dialogue, which means any of Thaci's plans of additional Lebensraum is doomed to failure. The north is as good as gone for Pristina at this point. Yes, changes ARE indeed coming, but not the ones you seem to hope for.

EULEX can move there as long as Pristina does not. They can function as the equivalent to Bosnia's High Representative. But other than that, I wonder how they're going to disassemble the institutions that are already firmly embedded in the absence of some negotiated deal with Belgrade. If Bosnia is any indication, the future doesn't look as bright as they might envision.

Thanks for the "insider" info, Jason.

This mission will fail....
(Dragan, Toronto, 30 January 2010 15:25)

If this mission failes, the Way for Kosovo towards European Union is blocked for decades.
If the mission failes, it is due to the lacking coorperation and willingness of the kosovarian politicans on both sides.

Always remember Europe don´t need Kosovo, but Kosovo needs Europe for economic and sozial development.

Mike, Jason, I don't really think Serbians should let down their guard and expect nothing to happen. I suspect EULEX will attempt to boil a frog. I'm sure you guys know what I mean but for those that don't, check [link]

As far as I'm concerned, EULEX has no business in Serbian controlled areas. Everything should be done to make it that way.
(Zoran, 30 January 2010 20:32)

Zoran, I would not expect Serbs to let their guard down - and if I were a Serb here in the north I would not for one second. That said, I truly believe that the EU has no stomach for violence here anymore. It is sad to say but it seems that violent resistance is the only language that the EU and other international organizations understand. If Serbs picketed and protested on March 17th, things would have not changed. The violence that occurred, while regrettable, was the only thing that got the attention of the international community here. The Albanians learned that long ago. For my part, I will not partake in any activity that is detrimental to Serbs and I would sooner resign and go back to my job in the US than betray my conscience. I understand your disgust with the EU mission, and I do not expect you to embrace EULEX in any way. I would imagine, however, that you would prefer internationals like Mike and myself to work here rather than some of the others in this forum.

The rest of the day , they are locked up in Log Bases or having coffees and lunches with their female language assistants.
(Kosova-USA, 30 January 2010 14:57)

Looks like a terrific job. Me too, please - but only with cute language assistant. No 70 year old, nagging and high maintenance please.

It is good to see in these posts that distain (or more properly disregard) for EULEX is common for both Serbs and Albanians.

The partition is de facto. Let's live with it for the time being.

The Serbian view that "it is ours but we can't have it for now" will keep the issue of the whole province open while enabling people to get on with their lives.

As for territorial integrity - the North is part of Serbia, so it makes no odds for it to be governed from there. The idea that territorial integrity need apply to Kosovo while not to Serbia contains some ridiculous illogic.

Same goes for Bosnia. I can understand why people feel strongly that they do not want to be ruled by an islamic government. That argument did not justify the murder of families, but it did justify the need to stand up against Bosnia as an entity.

Same goes for Krajina - no particular reason why that Serb region should remain part of Croatia.

At the moment the big powers don't want to 'reward' Serbia for what happened. So instead they reward Bosnian Muslims, Croats and Albanians. There's an illogic there too given that all sides were involved in causing the troubles.

Democratic forces should allow regions to choose their own representation - even if it does cross borders. The EU itself is about lots of cross border governance - probably too much! Dialogue between neighbouring states can allow for minorities in a very constructive fashion.

What causes trouble is effort to impose governance from those from who it is not wanted.

Kosovo is not Albania and should not be a separate state. However, the people who live there should have a strong choice of the source of their governance.

Mikael, I don't know what are you trying to say here. Illyrians were here before others, and also the Albanian language is the oldest one in Balkans. About all cities being by Serbian names, that's the Serbian politics, they changed every city's name to Serbian name ,like the street names.
So why don't you google a little bit about illyrians and you will see, our imaginary illyrians.
(PRIZRENI, 31 January 2010 15:48)

Albanian language is the oldest in the Balkans?! Show me where you heard that, please. Everyone knows that the Albanian language is anything but ancient...

Pejoni,

If it makes you feel better to think I do not work for EULEX, have at it. Enjoy yourself. Anyone with half brain can realize that I know far too much about the Kosovo legal system, the local area, and the activities herein to not be anything other than an international employee.

Just so you know, there are many of us that share my opinion. Furthermore, when someone cannot refute what my arguments are but can only attack who I am, it shows that you are not able to refute the logical arguments I put forth. Johny, for example, I disagree with almost entirely, yet he is able to have an intelligent debate based upon the merits of my argument.

Sure, Pristina can cry and whine all they like, but at the end of the day, nothing changes. You made a good point yesterday - what does the average Albanian even care about north Kosovo? Furthermore, a bigger question is what do some of these pro-Albanian internationals care about the north? What could possibly be at stake for them? Seems to me like it is hate, pure and simple. Rather pathetic."

When cars with KS plates cannot even drive anywhere in Serbia (including the municipalities of Zvecan, Zubin Potok, Leposavic, and most of N. Mitro, it is plainly obvious that Pristina has no power here, nor will it ever. I think all this talk from ICO is simply an act of desperation.
(Jason, 30 January 2010 17:53)"

Jason,

You're mistaken yet again. Your hatred for Albanians leds me to believe you are Serb, am I correct. You state above:

"Seems to me like it is hate, pure and simple. Rather pathetic."

Yet, on the other hand you state:

When cars with KS plates cannot even drive anywhere in Serbia (including the municipalities of Zvecan, Zubin Potok, Leposavic, and most of N. Mitro,

Is this not hate shown by Serbs, even for automobiles with KS plates.
My friend, I think it is you and your brethren that display hate and rather spontaineously so for anything Albanian, even their vehicles.

As far as Eulex in North Kosova not willing to use force to control the unruly Serbs living there, did it ever occur to you that perhaps the ground work is being laid for the Presheva valley area to be annexed to Kosova. This is where it rightly belongs, if we are to use the same logic you use for Serbia wanting the north of Kosova and R.S.

EULEX is in control!
Who needs more proof that Kosovo is not independent but UN/EU controlled?

Oh no here we go with the Illyrian thing again. If the K-Albs claim to have been here for 2000 plus years than you're really a sorry bunch. In two thousand years you have had to have two states (one barely functioning and the other stillborn) created for you. Please provide a quote from a respected historian(not Noel Malcolm) who will back the claim. Not even John Wilkes' intensive study 'The Illyrians' will back the claim that the ALbanian's are descendents of Illyrians. Please provide a source!

Mikael C.

Why don't you admit that most cities, towns and villages in Kosova also have their original Albanian names. These Albanian names are used by 95% of the population of Kosova. Ferizaj and Peja are but a few examples. It is the Serbs that forced their language and place names on the indigenous Albanians. More telling are the names of rivers, such as the Drin which is a purely Illyrian name. Obviously, you have never been to Kosova, if you had you would realize that sense you feel is that you are in Albania.

Ignore Jason, he doesnt work for EULEX, anyone can post her and claim I work for ICO or MUP or Kosovo's secrect service, bottom line, we are only civilians giving our opinions, yes this include you too Jason.

The reason why Thaci needs north under its "half" control is to secure his victory when early parliamentary elections come up this year, propably sometimes efter summer. To do so he need to prove himself for the public he can keep his word, remember he failed with "100 recognitions bla bla" and the oppostion will use this one and there is were north comes in the picture, once judiciary and customs are under the chain command of Prishtina he will declare a major victory for Kosovo and score the victory. For what he cares, or anyone els in Kosovo for that matter, the population in north can still think they are living in Serbia but they will adopt to the new structure and they will show their passport next time they enter Gate 31 or 1.

Every administration can change the names of towns & cities, that does not constitute anything.

EULEX and GoK (Government of Kosovo) will move into Little Columbia. Don't forgett the incident back when EULEX stormed the court in Mitrovica.

As Serbia goes bankrupt, less and less money will be spent on these illegal parallel institutions whereas the GoK institutions are getting stronger (economically & physically).

Expect changes!!

If Presevo and Kosovo belongs to albanians how come all cities and towns have Serbian names? Why don't you admit that you are using the imaginary illirians as an excuse to steal Serbian territory.
(Mikael C, 30 January 2010 23:45)
Mikael, I don't know what are you trying to say here. Illyrians were here before others, and also the Albanian language is the oldest one in Balkans. About all cities being by Serbian names, that's the Serbian politics, they changed every city's name to Serbian name ,like the street names.
So why don't you google a little bit about illyrians and you will see, our imaginary illyrians.

Mike,

I stayed informed with the news not just from my Albanian sources, but from Serbian, and others.

Just 2 days ago State Secretary or Minisiter for Kosovo Oliver Ivanovic declared that Serbia is ready to join EU without Kosovo. A complete 180 degrees turn in rhetoric.

I also am aware that EU or EULEX will not allow Little Colombia to be partitioned for Serbia as you would have hoped.

Once GoK controls the Little Colombia's border, ends your contraband of weapons, drugs, and money laundering, starts deporting Serbian officials that support parallel institutions....just how do you think these parallel structures will survive?

Your problem on balkan is, you always struggle about the history.
Thats hinder the whole region on the way in the future.

BUT ITS YOUR DECISION

In two thousand years you have had to have two states (one barely functioning and the other stillborn) created for you. (Milan)
I agree with you and would add:
When did Albanians start leaving a footprint in literary history (if one was ever left)? Do exist an Albanian philosophical school (or philosophical theory formed by this specific ethnicity)? What purely Albanian contribution did Albanians leave to the culture in the world (doesn’t count Hollywood-based John Belushi or Vatican-based Mother Theresa)? Beyond Skenderaj - whose “ethnicity” is yet unclear” – can you name at least three important – and I mean important – Albanians who left their names in history book? When was the modern Albanian language codified? When Albanian culture was so strong to have influenced the culture of surrounding areas?
Two options:
a) If really there is an uninterrupted bloodline from Illirians to Albanians this must by an invincible laziness and inclination not to develop beyond basic needs.
b) Illirians were scattered tribes which were colonized by other predominant cultures (Latins, Greeks, Octomans and yes, Slavs also who – at a certain point of their history - had been scattered tribes themselves, colonized and relocated here by the Romans.

I’m on the B and believe that having been sitting on a turf as long as one can doesn’t give any right.

And if we wont to go deeper, before Latins, Greeks, Octomans, Slavs, Illirians there where the Celts who ruled over the entire Europe for long time. So Kosovo is Ireland! But maybe no because before Celts there where Indo-European tribes arrived from what today is the middle-east. Therefore Kosovo is Pakistan!

Don’t mess up with history my Illyrian friends, can be thorny and not always on your side.

With this latest move, €USSR seems hell-bent on starting another war in Bosnia. They just don´t have a clue how to force trough their local client´s sharia state.

This will undoubtly sooner rather than later lead to war, a war they & NATO will loose this time with a strong Russia taking position...

'“We need to find united points and stop creating myths about the status of Kosovo," he said,' - Michael Giffoni, Italian emissary to the regime in Occupied Kosovo.

I hope this man is serious about trying to end the creating of myths about Kosovo's status, once and for all.
Kosovo i Metohija is not an internationally recognised country. It doesn't matter what sixty something countries have been coerced into recognising.
The fact of the matter is that International Law was broken on 17 Feb'08 with that ill-fated UDI.

The peaceful resolution of the problems in Kosovo must be dealt with in a conference involving Belgrade and Pristina only.
I feel that the Americans and the Germans particularly, should not be invited to such talks unless they were to arrive at the end with their cheque books to pay war reparations.

MB,Ireland

EULEX spokesperson Karin Limdal said that the European officials who have been visiting northern Kosovo have the task of supporting the implementation of the plan of International Civil Office (ICO) Chief Pieter Feith.
--
This is Tadic's doing. He invited EULEX into Kosovo and he will be the one with blood on his hands.

"The strategy was created by Feith and the temporary institutions in Priština"

Temporary institutions is all that they will ever be!

Sure, Pristina can cry and whine all they like, but at the end of the day, nothing changes. You made a good point yesterday - what does the average Albanian even care about north Kosovo? Furthermore, a bigger question is what do some of these pro-Albanian internationals care about the north? What could possibly be at stake for them? Seems to me like it is hate, pure and simple. Rather pathetic."

When cars with KS plates cannot even drive anywhere in Serbia (including the municipalities of Zvecan, Zubin Potok, Leposavic, and most of N. Mitro, it is plainly obvious that Pristina has no power here, nor will it ever. I think all this talk from ICO is simply an act of desperation.
(Jason, 30 January 2010 17:53)"

Jason,

You're mistaken yet again. Your hatred for Albanians leds me to believe you are Serb, am I correct. You state above:

"Seems to me like it is hate, pure and simple. Rather pathetic."

Yet, on the other hand you state:

When cars with KS plates cannot even drive anywhere in Serbia (including the municipalities of Zvecan, Zubin Potok, Leposavic, and most of N. Mitro,

Is this not hate shown by Serbs, even for automobiles with KS plates.
My friend, I think it is you and your brethren that display hate and rather spontaineously so for anything Albanian, even their vehicles.

As far as Eulex in North Kosova not willing to use force to control the unruly Serbs living there, did it ever occur to you that perhaps the ground work is being laid for the Presheva valley area to be annexed to Kosova. This is where it rightly belongs, if we are to use the same logic you use for Serbia wanting the north of Kosova and R.S.

I don't realize the sense of Eulex here. There is no realistic chance the people of North Kosovo will comply with Eulex. The EU is just waisting time and money doing this. Although the 4 million they promised is not very much money, as Serbia has put aside 48 million for that part of Kosovo.

The problem is the people will not comply because they are not governed the least bit by Pristina institutions. This is not Strpce or Gracanica, you might get less than 30% Serbs voting there, but you will get less than 5% Serbs north of the Ibar.

It is insane to believe this has any realistic shot at working. However what's even more funny is when the EU realizes it won't work, they will be appalled and shocked the Serbs are so "uncooperative" similar to the way the Serbs in Bosnia are perceived.

Enough with these games, we cannot be bought. Kosovo is Serbia, we realize we don't control all of Kosovo. But for the parts we do control, we are not giving up.

"EULEX personnel will be moving into northern Kosovo soon."

I thought they are already represented there? No? Anyway, notice that it is EULEX (and not Pristina) that is moving there.


"Feith’s strategy for northern Kosovo calls for the support of the “international community“ in direct links between Serbia’s European perspective and the decrease of Belgrade’s support for the “parallel“ structures in the north of Kosovo."

What is this "European perspective" that keeps cropping up in B92? It is really vague. How are Bosnians and Serbians and Albanians any less European than the French, Germans and Brits? Is it Nato membership? I don't think Serbians are exactly waxing lyrical about joining Nato. EU membership? Possibly. But unless and until the EU actually admits Serbia in might some Serbians (not all of them) be persuaded to let go of the parallel structures. And until this happens (in 2018 according to someone called Mircea on B92), Feith's strategy remains a no brainer.


"He said that “a mature approach must be adopted with a concentration on the possibility of dialogue between the communities, dealing with concrete questions and issues essential to the people.“

In other words he has discounted any force (just like Kermabon had earlier) and will have to talk and talkl and talk until his throat is hoarse to convince the K-Serbs ..... good luck to him!


“We need to find united points and stop creating myths about the status of Kosovo," he said, adding that he has “received encouraging signals from the local Serb community," the Italian agency stated."

No myths about Kosovo's status as far as 1244 is concerned.

Also, notice how he was careful not to elaborate on the so-called "encouraging signals" from the K-Serbs. Was his statement an honest one? I doubt so. And even if it was, how can he be so sure that the K-Serbs were not merely being polite to him when he visited them?

This mission will fail and the uprising it causes will be ugly and well publicized. Don't pour gasoline over a fire...

Luckily, I am not bound to be "politically correct", so I can say it honestly: what a useless way to spend money.
(Ataman, 30 January 2010, 12:12)


EULEX south of Ibar is doing absolutaly nothing. Might as well head north of Ibar. If you chechk every KP Police station and all Police RHQ, you will be lucky to see some eulex vehicles parked in the front between 8-9am during morning briefings, and that is it. The rest of the day , they are locked up in Log Bases or having coffees and lunches with their female language assistants.There is no different north of Ibar, just ask Jason to tell you about it, since he was deployed there.

Ataman,

While I do work for EULEX I would agree with you, as would many colleagues, that this mission has been a whole lot of nothing. It seems that Brussels never intended us to do much because they tied our hands from the very beginning. Add the Kosovo Criminal Code to the mix and you will see that it was clearly written by lawyers and police were never brought into its formation. I could write a book on the problems with the KCC alone. Our executive department has to deal with corrupt locals in most cases, and in the event an arrest could be made, Brussels may interfere so as not to upset anyone. Add to the fact that foreign intelligence services are often paying the very criminals we investigate, you can see why its a failure.

As for the north, I am not sure what the big hooplah is about - EULEX has been in the north since day 1. The only change is that they will allow members to live in the north now, so they will soon have 50% less rent to pay and not be screwed by landlords. Otherwise, it is business as usual I am afraid. That said, its a job and a good way for some of us to live in Serbia and see Europe.

If Presevo and Kosovo belongs to albanians how come all cities and towns have Serbian names? Why don't you admit that you are using the imaginary illirians as an excuse to steal Serbian territory.
(Mikael C, 30 January 2010 23:45)
Mikael, I don't know what are you trying to say here. Illyrians were here before others, and also the Albanian language is the oldest one in Balkans. About all cities being by Serbian names, that's the Serbian politics, they changed every city's name to Serbian name ,like the street names.
So why don't you google a little bit about illyrians and you will see, our imaginary illyrians.

Unfortunately the Europeans and the Americans will appease those who create most problems. In this case its the albanians. Europe and America has done a lot for the Albanians but the Albanians don't give a damn. Unless Europe and the US continue with Albanian policies of intimidation and threats towards the Serbian community they will give EULEX and the international community hell. The albanians have proven several time what type of violence and intimidation they are capable off. Serbia has become a wimp. Even if northern Kosovo was attacked by Albanians the only thing Belgrade would do is file a complaint to the ICJ or some other useless organization that is already siding with the enemies of international law. Just like Tadic did after Mesic threatened RS. That's why I hope Serbs in Kosovo prepare for battle and trust only themselves.

Michael R

If Presevo and Kosovo belongs to albanians how come all cities and towns have Serbian names? Why don't you admit that you are using the imaginary illirians as an excuse to steal Serbian territory.

Mikael C.

Why don't you admit that most cities, towns and villages in Kosova also have their original Albanian names. These Albanian names are used by 95% of the population of Kosova. Ferizaj and Peja are but a few examples. It is the Serbs that forced their language and place names on the indigenous Albanians. More telling are the names of rivers, such as the Drin which is a purely Illyrian name. Obviously, you have never been to Kosova, if you had you would realize that sense you feel is that you are in Albania.

Ignore Jason, he doesnt work for EULEX, anyone can post her and claim I work for ICO or MUP or Kosovo's secrect service, bottom line, we are only civilians giving our opinions, yes this include you too Jason.

The reason why Thaci needs north under its "half" control is to secure his victory when early parliamentary elections come up this year, propably sometimes efter summer. To do so he need to prove himself for the public he can keep his word, remember he failed with "100 recognitions bla bla" and the oppostion will use this one and there is were north comes in the picture, once judiciary and customs are under the chain command of Prishtina he will declare a major victory for Kosovo and score the victory. For what he cares, or anyone els in Kosovo for that matter, the population in north can still think they are living in Serbia but they will adopt to the new structure and they will show their passport next time they enter Gate 31 or 1.

Every administration can change the names of towns & cities, that does not constitute anything.

EULEX and GoK (Government of Kosovo) will move into Little Columbia. Don't forgett the incident back when EULEX stormed the court in Mitrovica.

As Serbia goes bankrupt, less and less money will be spent on these illegal parallel institutions whereas the GoK institutions are getting stronger (economically & physically).

Expect changes!!

EULEX can move there as long as Pristina does not. They can function as the equivalent to Bosnia's High Representative. But other than that, I wonder how they're going to disassemble the institutions that are already firmly embedded in the absence of some negotiated deal with Belgrade. If Bosnia is any indication, the future doesn't look as bright as they might envision.

There are no comments here so far - but probably just because of server issues. I am pretty sure, already dozens of people wrote and as usual the level of blood pressure is high.

Before you comment, please read this first-hand report from someone who is known to the international community in Pristina and is respected by all. Thanks.

http://mtcowgirl.us/kosovo/?p=175

My comment: if indeed as she wrote "Vetevendosje – 1, EULEX – 0" and they are scared of Albin Kurti that much - how about these "wild and savage" Serbs in North? Remember: "any vehicle not parked in a secured location that is damaged after working hours will become the responsibility of the staff member who parked the vehicle in that location".

EULEX seem to be intimidated and without visible presence in South. Now they may try in North. But what happens if Serbs there get the same idea what Albin Kurti got?

Luckily, I am not bound to be "politically correct", so I can say it honestly: what a useless way to spend money.

Mike, Jason, I don't really think Serbians should let down their guard and expect nothing to happen. I suspect EULEX will attempt to boil a frog. I'm sure you guys know what I mean but for those that don't, check http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boiling_frog

As far as I'm concerned, EULEX has no business in Serbian controlled areas. Everything should be done to make it that way.

Mike,

I stayed informed with the news not just from my Albanian sources, but from Serbian, and others.

Just 2 days ago State Secretary or Minisiter for Kosovo Oliver Ivanovic declared that Serbia is ready to join EU without Kosovo. A complete 180 degrees turn in rhetoric.

I also am aware that EU or EULEX will not allow Little Colombia to be partitioned for Serbia as you would have hoped.

Once GoK controls the Little Colombia's border, ends your contraband of weapons, drugs, and money laundering, starts deporting Serbian officials that support parallel institutions....just how do you think these parallel structures will survive?

EULEX can move there as long as Pristina does not. They can function as the equivalent to Bosnia's High Representative. But other than that, I wonder how they're going to disassemble the institutions that are already firmly embedded in the absence of some negotiated deal with Belgrade. If Bosnia is any indication, the future doesn't look as bright as they might envision.
(Mike, 30 January 2010 17:26)

Exactly, Mike. EULEX has been here all along and had no problems because it has not forced any issues on the Serbian institutions. No force will be used from the EU side as they have noted repeatedly, so basically this is just talk to appease some radical elements in Pristina.

Sure, Pristina can cry and whine all they like, but at the end of the day, nothing changes. You made a good point yesterday - what does the average Albanian even care about north Kosovo? Furthermore, a bigger question is what do some of these pro-Albanian internationals care about the north? What could possibly be at stake for them? Seems to me like it is hate, pure and simple. Rather pathetic.

When cars with KS plates cannot even drive anywhere in Serbia (including the municipalities of Zvecan, Zubin Potok, Leposavic, and most of N. Mitro, it is plainly obvious that Pristina has no power here, nor will it ever. I think all this talk from ICO is simply an act of desperation.

Thanks for the "insider" info, Jason.

As far as Eulex in North Kosova not willing to use force to control the unruly Serbs living there, did it ever occur to you that perhaps the ground work is being laid for the Presheva valley area to be annexed to Kosova. This is where it rightly belongs, if we are to use the same logic you use for Serbia wanting the north of Kosova and R.S.
(Michael R., 30 January 2010 19:55)

preshovo valley has 1 town with a albanian majority and allot are leaving so what are you saying then kosovo is serbia. we know that already

Ataman,

Interesting story. It makes me think the 4 million euros allotted for "integrating" the north may very well be spent either on replacing stolen tires from EULEX vehicles or busted headlights from angry Serbs. I wouldn't put it past them to do that. When I took one of those shuttle buses from KM to Gracanica, the bus at the station had KM plates. But knowing full well we'd be driving through Albanian territory, I wondered why the driver just didn't put the KS plates on before departure. As it turned out, we drove 4 or 5 blocks in KM before coming to a small (2 block) Albanian neighborhood north of the Ibar before the second, smaller bridge. It was then that he stopped the bus to change the plates. Apparently everyone learned just exactly *where* to change plates to avoid any wayward rocks being thrown. Interestingly enough, a few Serbs in Gracanica I know found a compromise solution by registering their cars in Novi Pazar. Apparently the "NP" prefix gives one all-access in Kosovo :)

Jason, it seems to me that EULEX may even be trying to beat Pristina to the punch. If we know anything about Eurocracy, it's that compromise for the sake of stability trumps whatever one side completely wants. Judging from comments here about EULEX's do-nothing policy, I suspect in a few months they'll be happily doing business with those very same "parallel" institutions they deem illegal or whatever. If the goal is to stramline something without any tension or aggression, I daresay EULEX will be doing anything else other than taking advantage of some really good burek and visiting the ruins of Zvecan fortress. Maybe they can organize a paint-ball tournament in the abandoned Trepca factories.

"EULEX south of Ibar is doing absolutaly nothing. Might as well head north of Ibar." (Kosova-USA)

-- To apparently do nothing there too, I assume. Wow, we actually agree on something. I was even compelled to "recommend" your post this time :)

This mission will fail....
(Dragan, Toronto, 30 January 2010 15:25)

If this mission failes, the Way for Kosovo towards European Union is blocked for decades.
If the mission failes, it is due to the lacking coorperation and willingness of the kosovarian politicans on both sides.

Always remember Europe don´t need Kosovo, but Kosovo needs Europe for economic and sozial development.

Mike, Jason, I don't really think Serbians should let down their guard and expect nothing to happen. I suspect EULEX will attempt to boil a frog. I'm sure you guys know what I mean but for those that don't, check [link]

As far as I'm concerned, EULEX has no business in Serbian controlled areas. Everything should be done to make it that way.
(Zoran, 30 January 2010 20:32)

Zoran, I would not expect Serbs to let their guard down - and if I were a Serb here in the north I would not for one second. That said, I truly believe that the EU has no stomach for violence here anymore. It is sad to say but it seems that violent resistance is the only language that the EU and other international organizations understand. If Serbs picketed and protested on March 17th, things would have not changed. The violence that occurred, while regrettable, was the only thing that got the attention of the international community here. The Albanians learned that long ago. For my part, I will not partake in any activity that is detrimental to Serbs and I would sooner resign and go back to my job in the US than betray my conscience. I understand your disgust with the EU mission, and I do not expect you to embrace EULEX in any way. I would imagine, however, that you would prefer internationals like Mike and myself to work here rather than some of the others in this forum.

Mikael, I don't know what are you trying to say here. Illyrians were here before others, and also the Albanian language is the oldest one in Balkans. About all cities being by Serbian names, that's the Serbian politics, they changed every city's name to Serbian name ,like the street names.
So why don't you google a little bit about illyrians and you will see, our imaginary illyrians.
(PRIZRENI, 31 January 2010 15:48)

Albanian language is the oldest in the Balkans?! Show me where you heard that, please. Everyone knows that the Albanian language is anything but ancient...

The rest of the day , they are locked up in Log Bases or having coffees and lunches with their female language assistants.
(Kosova-USA, 30 January 2010 14:57)

Looks like a terrific job. Me too, please - but only with cute language assistant. No 70 year old, nagging and high maintenance please.

"EULEX and GoK (Government of Kosovo) will move into Little Columbia. Don't forgett the incident back when EULEX stormed the court in Mitrovica. As Serbia goes bankrupt, less and less money will be spent on these illegal parallel institutions whereas the GoK institutions are getting stronger (economically & physically).

Expect changes!!" (KOSOVARi)

-- How is what you envision any different from the fascistic policies of Milosevic? Some people just never learn, or refuse to learn. And try reading the article, my little armchair general. EULEX only wants dialogue, which means any of Thaci's plans of additional Lebensraum is doomed to failure. The north is as good as gone for Pristina at this point. Yes, changes ARE indeed coming, but not the ones you seem to hope for.

Pejoni,

If it makes you feel better to think I do not work for EULEX, have at it. Enjoy yourself. Anyone with half brain can realize that I know far too much about the Kosovo legal system, the local area, and the activities herein to not be anything other than an international employee.

Just so you know, there are many of us that share my opinion. Furthermore, when someone cannot refute what my arguments are but can only attack who I am, it shows that you are not able to refute the logical arguments I put forth. Johny, for example, I disagree with almost entirely, yet he is able to have an intelligent debate based upon the merits of my argument.

Your problem on balkan is, you always struggle about the history.
Thats hinder the whole region on the way in the future.

BUT ITS YOUR DECISION

It is good to see in these posts that distain (or more properly disregard) for EULEX is common for both Serbs and Albanians.

The partition is de facto. Let's live with it for the time being.

The Serbian view that "it is ours but we can't have it for now" will keep the issue of the whole province open while enabling people to get on with their lives.

As for territorial integrity - the North is part of Serbia, so it makes no odds for it to be governed from there. The idea that territorial integrity need apply to Kosovo while not to Serbia contains some ridiculous illogic.

Same goes for Bosnia. I can understand why people feel strongly that they do not want to be ruled by an islamic government. That argument did not justify the murder of families, but it did justify the need to stand up against Bosnia as an entity.

Same goes for Krajina - no particular reason why that Serb region should remain part of Croatia.

At the moment the big powers don't want to 'reward' Serbia for what happened. So instead they reward Bosnian Muslims, Croats and Albanians. There's an illogic there too given that all sides were involved in causing the troubles.

Democratic forces should allow regions to choose their own representation - even if it does cross borders. The EU itself is about lots of cross border governance - probably too much! Dialogue between neighbouring states can allow for minorities in a very constructive fashion.

What causes trouble is effort to impose governance from those from who it is not wanted.

Kosovo is not Albania and should not be a separate state. However, the people who live there should have a strong choice of the source of their governance.

EULEX is in control!
Who needs more proof that Kosovo is not independent but UN/EU controlled?

Oh no here we go with the Illyrian thing again. If the K-Albs claim to have been here for 2000 plus years than you're really a sorry bunch. In two thousand years you have had to have two states (one barely functioning and the other stillborn) created for you. Please provide a quote from a respected historian(not Noel Malcolm) who will back the claim. Not even John Wilkes' intensive study 'The Illyrians' will back the claim that the ALbanian's are descendents of Illyrians. Please provide a source!

In two thousand years you have had to have two states (one barely functioning and the other stillborn) created for you. (Milan)
I agree with you and would add:
When did Albanians start leaving a footprint in literary history (if one was ever left)? Do exist an Albanian philosophical school (or philosophical theory formed by this specific ethnicity)? What purely Albanian contribution did Albanians leave to the culture in the world (doesn’t count Hollywood-based John Belushi or Vatican-based Mother Theresa)? Beyond Skenderaj - whose “ethnicity” is yet unclear” – can you name at least three important – and I mean important – Albanians who left their names in history book? When was the modern Albanian language codified? When Albanian culture was so strong to have influenced the culture of surrounding areas?
Two options:
a) If really there is an uninterrupted bloodline from Illirians to Albanians this must by an invincible laziness and inclination not to develop beyond basic needs.
b) Illirians were scattered tribes which were colonized by other predominant cultures (Latins, Greeks, Octomans and yes, Slavs also who – at a certain point of their history - had been scattered tribes themselves, colonized and relocated here by the Romans.

I’m on the B and believe that having been sitting on a turf as long as one can doesn’t give any right.

And if we wont to go deeper, before Latins, Greeks, Octomans, Slavs, Illirians there where the Celts who ruled over the entire Europe for long time. So Kosovo is Ireland! But maybe no because before Celts there where Indo-European tribes arrived from what today is the middle-east. Therefore Kosovo is Pakistan!

Don’t mess up with history my Illyrian friends, can be thorny and not always on your side.