Why is this important: The attack on a BDI election candidate raises serious concerns about rising political tensions and the fragile interethnic stability in North Macedonia. Tensions between the Macedonian and Albanian communities have deepened since the nationalist VMRO-DPMNE government took power, vowing to roll back many of the rights and guarantees secured under the Ohrid Agreement. While the motives and perpetrators of the shooting remain unknown, the incident risks further escalating divisions in a country still marked by the memory of the 2001 armed conflict between ethnic Albanian insurgents and Macedonian security forces.

Why is this important: The decision is a direct setback for Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s Vetëvendosje movement. It prevents the formation of a new government until parliament is fully constituted and underscores persistent tensions over minority representation in Kosovo’s institutions.

Why is this important: Kurti’s refusal to address U.S. concerns highlights a widening rift with Washington and Brussels. The EU still maintains sanctions over his handling of ethnic tensions in the north, and even Germany, once his most consistent backer, has become critical of his government’s actions, particularly after the impasse that followed the February elections. Many in both Kosovo and Albania worry that this intransigence is eroding Kosovo’s credibility with key Western partners.

Why is this important: The data highlight a deepening demographic crisis in the Western Balkans, driven largely by emigration. A shrinking population threatens labor supply, economic growth, and social stability — issues that are becoming central policy challenges for the region’s governments.

Why is this important: The differing statements from Pristina and KFOR underline a growing gap between Kosovo’s government and its international partners, including KFOR, raising questions about coordination and trust. Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s government has frequently expressed frustration with what it sees as insufficient action from KFOR to deter Serbian provocations, while Kosovo’s international partners have expressed growing irritation with Kurti and his attitude vis-à-vis the dialogue with Serbia and the Serb community in Kosovo.