Kosovo: Further protests possible in predominantly ethnic-Serb urban centers in coming days as of June 14 /update 2

Event

As of June 14, further protests are possible in predominantly ethnic Serb urban centers in northern Kosovo in the coming days as tensions persist between local residents and central government authorities. Tensions spiked on May 29 amid ethnic Serb protests in Zvecan, Leposavic, Zubin Potok, and North Mitrovica denouncing the government after authorities forcibly installed ethnic Albanian mayors in several Serb-majority municipalities following local elections widely boycotted by ethnic Serbs; violent protests in Zvecan resulted in injuries to at least 34 NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) peacekeepers and dozens of protesters. On June 13, Kosovar law enforcement in North Mitrovica apprehended an alleged organizer of the violence in Zvecan. Related unrest in North Mitrovica left three policemen wounded; security forces also blocked a bridge linking the northern and southern sectors of the city. Separately, demonstrators also gathered peacefully outside the Zvecan town hall on June 13.

Protests denouncing the Kosovar government continued in North Mitrovica, Zvecan, Zubin Potok, and Leposavic May 30-31, but violent clashes have largely abated. KFOR troops remain stationed near government buildings in each of the affected locations.

Episodic violence in northern Kosovo is likely to continue as tensions persist. Further security operations by local and national law enforcement as well as related protests led by ethnic Serbs are likely. Increased security, roadblocks, and consequent transport disruptions are likely in areas subject to protest activity. Travel through border crossings between Kosovo and Serbia may be suspended or otherwise disrupted at short notice.

Context

Kosovar officials on June 13 proposed a plan to defuse tensions in northern Kosovo, involving a limited increase of security operations in the region in the short term to subdue violent dissident groups, followed by a decrease of police presence in the area. Authorities then propose increasing the presence of international KFOR personnel to monitor developments alongside the European Union EULEX civilian mission. The government has also raised the possibility of re-running the local elections to reflect the ethnic composition of the region. It remains to be seen whether these overtures will quell tensions. However, it remains likely that tensions and related protests will increase in tandem with further security operations to apprehend alleged protest organizers.

Advice

Exercise heightened vigilance if operating in northern Kosovo. Avoid all protest activity as well as border crossings and concentrations of security forces where possible; consider taking alternative routes to circumvent areas impacted by unrest. Prepare for potential cross-border travel disruptions if traveling or routing freight through the Kosovo-Serbia border. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities. If operating in Belgrade, monitor local media for potential protest updates and confirm consular appointments.