It has been reported that NATO itself is the main obstacle for the formation of Kosovo's own army. This is contributed to four member states of NATO that do not recognize Kosovo as a sovereign state. Kosovo desires to turn the KFOR (Kosovo Force, also known as the Security Force) into the Kosovo Army but NATO is not supportive of that action. The KFOR is a NATO led international peacekeeping force that entered Kosovo in 1999 under a United Nations mandate. The formation of the KFOR into Kosovo's Army is still a topic debated within NATO. An official of NATO stated the alliance was looking for a solution for this situation as KFOR troops cannot stay within Kosovo for forever. Kosovo would also not risk transforming the KFOR into Kosovo's army without the consent of NATO. Kosovo has received support from Turkey regarding the formation of its own military.
I found this article very interesting because NATO entered Kosovo in 1999 in order to stop the grave humanitarian crisis that was occurring within the country. Because of NATO's intervention it is questionable to why NATO would not support the formation of Kosovo's own army. Kosovo has very strong ties with Albania, which is another reason for NATO to consider supporting the formation of Kosovo's own army. Albania is a relatively new member of NATO but since its membership Albania has been actively engaged and demonstrating leadership qualities as well within the organization. Albania also has close ties as well. The formation of Kosovo's own army would increase regional security. It is hard to fathom that NATO's reluctance is primarily contributed to four member states decision to not recognize Kosovo as a state.
http://www.b92.net/eng/news/politics-article.php?yyyy=2013&mm=02&dd=09&nav_id=84610
I can't remember if it was this article or a different article with the same topic, but I agree with it being questionable as to why NATO would not support the formation of an army in Kosovo. It does seems that it would be a positive aspect for Albania as a new member. I think that once the four members or if the four members do recognize Kosovo as a sovereign state, the army option for an army will be passed.
ReplyDeleteThis is really interesting. I did not expect NATO to not support such an endeavor either but I think once you look at the historical context of Kosovo's existence and the issues facing Europe today there can be some legitimate explanations. 1) of course is the fact that there are 4 countries who do not see Kosovo as a sovereign state. 2) there is also a fear of unrest between Albania and perhaps Serbia in the future, are they still viewed as unstable? 3) is there political stability in the area, if not allowing them their own military could be seen as dangerous. 4) money. 5) Influence of Russia, is this seen as problematic still within NATO. There are several questions that can be raised from this issue and it would be nice to get some concrete explanations from NATO!
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