The Significance of the Berlin Process for Kosovo - Challenges and Opportunities for Sustainable Integration

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Purpose: This scientific work aims to reveal the depth of the influence of the Berlin process on the integration process of the Western Balkans, i.e. Kosovo. Through the assessment of challenges and achievements, the impact of this process will be presented in the progress of the perspective of Kosovo's membership in the European Union and the construction of a stable and united region in the Western Balkans. Theoretical Reference: The Berlin Process is an initiative initiated and led by Germany, the purpose of which is to facilitate regional cooperation between the six countries of the Western Balkans (WB6) with a vision to help them meet the criteria for accession to the European Union (EU). After the decision of the European Union to suspend the enlargement process for a period of 5 years, in order to prevent the weakening of the continuation of reforms in the countries of the Western Balkans, the Berlin Process was introduced at the initiative of Chancellor Merkel and with the support of the EU member states, as an instrument for the continuation of the multilateral and reform dialogue for the countries of the Western Balkans. Balkans. This process, supported by EU financial aid for the countries of the Western Balkans, positively contributed to the acceleration of infrastructural, economic and energy market reforms, the promotion of cultural, academic and youth cooperation, as well as the intensification of dialogue. on unresolved bilateral issues such as Kosovo-Serbia, etc. Method: Data processing of 110 respondents and a structured interview of five domestic actors of this process will give us clear conclusions and recommendations that are worth including in the further continuation of negotiations and the implementation of the requirements arising from this initiative. Results and conclusion: The results emphasize the need for the commitment and support of the countries participating in the process, and especially the EU, in supporting Kosovo's commitment to reforms and integration into the international community. Also, through research, we managed to discuss the role of the Berlin process, in accelerating reforms and Kosovo's advantages on the way to integration into the European Union. Implications of the research: The work provides us with an opportunity to understand the challenges and importance of the Berlin Process for Kosovo and the role and influence of institutional and non-institutional actors, such as international actors and non-governmental organizations. Originality/value: The document contributes to the continuous promotion of the debate in Kosovo society, about the importance of such a process for regional cooperation and for governments in Kosovo to understand the role they play in the country's rapid progress towards the EU.