The outgoing EU Ambassador to Kosovo, Aivo Orav, said that the integration of Serbian-run healthcare and education systems into Kosovo’s framework should proceed without disrupting services, while the issue of the University in North Mitrovica remains under EU oversight.
In a joint interview with Serbian-language media, Orav stressed that the European Union expects continuity in both sectors, noting that staff coming from Serbia will be able to obtain residence permits. This, he said, requires coordination, including the submission of employee lists to Kosovo authorities through EU channels.
Agreement seen as “historic achievement”
Orav praised the March 14 agreement between Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti and EU Special Representative Peter Sorensen, describing it as a major breakthrough and potentially a historic moment.
While acknowledging dissatisfaction among parts of the Serbian community, he noted that both the community and Belgrade have accepted the agreement.
Trust as key mechanism
Asked about safeguards against potential misuse of the Law on Foreigners, Orav emphasized that trust is the central mechanism, alongside EU monitoring structures dealing with freedom of movement.
He also encouraged reporting of any irregularities and reiterated the importance of cooperation between Serbian institutions and Kosovo authorities in implementing agreed procedures.
University: complex issue, no quick solution
On education, Orav underlined that the issue is significantly more complex than healthcare. He confirmed that the University in Mitrovica is considered a “parallel structure,” but stressed that the EU wants it to continue functioning while a long-term solution is negotiated.
According to him, no formal decision has been made regarding its status, and any resolution will require time, dialogue, and broad consensus.
He reassured the academic community that the EU is actively handling the matter, with Peter Sorensen leading efforts to find an acceptable solution.
Association of Serb-majority municipalities “still on the table”
Orav said the Association of Serb-majority Municipalities has not disappeared from the agenda, even if it is not currently in focus.
He indicated that resolving the issue will require a diplomatic approach, particularly given ongoing legal and institutional uncertainties.
Kosovo “multiethnic”; return of Serbs a community issue
Describing Kosovo as a multiethnic state, Orav said that the return of Serbs to urban areas is primarily a matter for the Serbian community itself, rather than a direct EU responsibility.
On March 17 violence: focus on the future
Commenting on differing narratives surrounding the anniversary of the 2004 unrest in Kosovo, Orav avoided detailed remarks and instead emphasized the importance of looking forward, noting that historical revisionism is a broader global issue.
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