19 Oct 2018 | 01:28 PM UTC
Kosovo: Protests possible as national army created
Kosovar Parliament approves the transition of the Kosovo Security Force to a national army October 18; protests possible in the coming days by Serbian community
Event
The Kosovar Parliament approved a law authorizing the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) to transition into an army on Thursday, October 18; the KSF was lightly armed and dealt mostly with crisis response prior to this decision. The Serbian minority living in the country, backed by Belgrade, has widely criticized this decision, declaring it illegal. Protests within the Serbian community in the country are possible in the coming days and weeks.
Context
Serbian-Kosovar relations remain tense a decade after Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008. Serbia does not recognize Kosovo's independence, still considering the country as under Serbian sovereignty.
Advice
Individuals in Kosovo, notably the capital Pristina, are advised to monitor the situation and avoid demonstrations as a precaution.
