To Share or to Divide? Negotiating the Future of Kosovo

Abstract

This article analyses the issue of power-sharing in Kosovo. The power-sharing arrangements developed during the current international protectorate, were imposed and contained fixed minority representation. Kosovo remains ethnically polarised. The plan concerning the future status of Kosovo enhances the power of Kosovo Serbs through territorial and military power-sharing arrangements. The peace talks were held behind closed doors and excluded civil society participation. Conducive conditions for future power-sharing to contribute to sustainable peace are lacking. It is suggested that a broad-based, open and protracted negotiation process is needed to allow the local parties to find a solution that they are willing to implement.