SERBIA | Time to Accept Kosovo?

[@JamesKerLindsay]

So, back to the Balkans this week. And a perennial problem that has, frankly, gone on far too long: Kosovo-Serbia. There's been a lot of speculation that the EU and United States has put forward a new proposal for Serbia and Kosovo. But is this something we should take seriously? And what about trying to get a grand settlement instead? As always, do let me know your thoughts and comments below. And please do take a look at World Politics Review and its great special offer for channel viewers. Their support really does help the channel. Thank you so much. www.wpr.pub/jkl

[@Tmb1112]

First time I’ve heard the history of Kosovo so thoroughly. I learned a lot. Thanks for this!

[@QuizmasterLaw]

peace in Kosovo and Serbia will be a function of how tied up Russia is in Ukraine. The worse it goes for Russia in Ukraine, the less Russia will be able to provoke and incite conflicts in Kosovo and Serbia.

[@ioanD]

Aveți un stil dificil și împrăștiat de prezentare, care dovedește lipsa dumneavoastră de claritate și înțelegere a situațiilor, același stil detailist ca al tuturor primitivilor de proveniență nordică.

[@QuizmasterLaw]

Was more accurate and informative than I expected. Good job, really well done!

[@masterblaster848]

Professor, great lecture as always, but I have to say: USA worked actively as Albanian great ally and patron. USA was breaking for years serbian resistance asking from every Serb goverment from Djindjic, Tadić to very Vučić to give a bit more to Kosovo. It is Vučić that gave away more than any other. Now he is asked to give what was left and that is recognition or Will be replaced by another american puppet that Will give what is asked. We must not forget albanian ethnic cleansing of Serbs and nonAlbanians in 1999. Terror of Albanian rule to this very day proves that Serb can't be governed by Albanians. Also, no country was asked this much for so little as Serbia. We can never forget and forgive crimes of Nato aggression and genocide on Serbs. USA led crusade against Serbs in Balkans 1991-1999. It take 100 years or whole one generation to be forgiven, but not forgotten. So, it will take a lot of time for Serbia to accept of it ever does. Hungarians speak same about Trianon. To remind you Kosovo&Metohija is Serbia "Jerusalem".

[@garyyoung3367]

Western Sahara deserves fully recognized independence.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

I fully agree.

[@rodrigoadrianrodriguezaedo4477]

Unfortunately, if the referendum Morocco has been postponing for decades takes place now, the most likely thing is that the option of being part of Morocco, since the aforementioned country has been sending Moroccan settlers for decades.

[@alinoor6515]

Ogaden from Eithiopia deserves recognition from world powers.

[@slickrick2420]

@@alinoor6515 Somaliland deserves it more

[@jovanlazarevic4339]

Professor, you did a great job covering this topic so much so that I feel the need to thank you, truly. I am a Serb and so I naturally must have my biasis when it comes to the subject of Kosovo but one cannot but appreciate the lenghts You went to do this topic justice. Amazing work!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much Jovan. I really appreciate the kind comment. I just hope a settlement can be found.

[@annai6393]

He did not. He invented an Illyrian/Dardanian kingdom? It does not exist, it never did.

[@arrore]

@@annai6393 Of course it did. But Serbs wouldn’t know about this, obviously since they only appear in Kosovo in the 11th century. ;) Dardanian Illyrians for life. 👐

[@annai6393]

@@arrore LOL, LOL, LOL, LOL, LOL.

[@tombuddy100]

@@arrore So, are you Dardanians, Illyrians, Albanians, or Shqiptarët?

[@shys5884]

Good video, but the biggest compliment goes to you for saying that Serbian people see actions of West as hypocritical and unfair. Most of analysis which I saw don't mention the view of average Serbian citizen and it's key to understand Serbia's position.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. It is indeed a really important element that is often ignored. I think a lot of this is about injured pride, and rightly so. But I also think people in Serbia need to look at the big political picture. Trying to reintegrate Kosovo would be economically, politically and socially disastrous for the country.

[@dzonikg28]

@@JamesKerLindsay Same as Ukraine integrating 8 milion Russians.. Still west does not spare weapons for it.

[@freespiritable]

The west has been hypocritical with Albanians not Serbs. Dividing the nation then refusing Kosovo's independence. Serbs have been only pampered. The West only intervened after they butchered half the Balkan.

[@59vlada]

That's not nearly enough. What about starting with the fact that Kosova* ("Kosovo" is Serbian world that means "field of black birds") is essentially a US/NATO protectorate, it's not and never will be independent state? Then acknowledging the fact that NATO assault on Serbia that resulted in occupation of this part of it under disguise of "UN peacekeeping" was illegal and, according to international law - war crime? Then acknowledging the fact that the only valid document about status of Kosovo is UN SB Resolution 1244, stating that Kosovo is part of Serbia, which is signed by US, Britain and France, among the others? Then you can't avoid coming to a conclusion that there is no just way of recognizing "facts on the ground" created by deadly force, lies and cheating.

[@SVO_2022]

​@@59vladaCongratulations for your post. You made the most accurate point of view. Nevertheless, the author is keeping and keeping questioning the Serbia's right to its territory. As a major point I have the following answer for the right of independency: if suits to USA's interests, ok go ahead, be independent. "Of course" this is always in the name of "democracy"...😂😂

[@Alex-pu5lz]

It's incredible how you present all these complex issues in such an objective and easy to understand way. Thank you once again for your analysis.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you! :-)

[@annai6393]

LOL. It is not incredible; he just made a bunch of things up! Ilyria was a province of the Roman Empire; the name given to a wilderness, so to say, even by Ancient Greeks, a kingdom never existed, nor was Dardania a kingdom center. Utter rubbish. Othering, Balkanism, and horrible twisting of any facts.

[@Spacemongerr]

​@@annai6393Dardania was a kingdom for 300 years before the Romans conquered the region. There is a lot of historical evidence for this, how can you just dismiss it? The professor did not say Illyria was a kingdom. But rather that Dardania was a kingdom in the region of Illyria, and that the region we today call Kosovo was in or near the center of the Kingdom of Dardania. The region had been called Illyria by the Greeks for centuries before the Romans conquered it and named their province after the Greek name. This is well documented. Your comment is a mess of falsely misrepresenting things he did not say, and muddying the waters by bringing in the Roman province which was created centuries later. The facts you state are true - but nothing you wrote is contrary to what is said in the video. Yet you pretend it is, and you do so in a needlessly provocative manner. Why? By the way, what is this "othering" you speak of, who is being othered?

[@59vlada]

That "objective" way is just an attempt of placing the NATO narrative (propaganda) into a polite, quasi-historical wrap.

[@berkin3086]

EU and Usa reject the İndependance of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus(TRNC) but they support Kosovo's independence that's truly hypocrisy:)

[@ephilippos]

Never; as is the case with Cyp, Serbia cannot legitimise a breakaway “state” as independently not-Serbian which was & is, a significantly historical part of its territory, just because the West imposed it.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Every country can declare that a part of its territory is independent - if it wants to. That is the foundation of sovereignty. But, interestingly, there was one exception to this in modern times. I hope to cover it in a couple of weeks.

[@ephilippos]

@@JamesKerLindsay Dear Prof hope you are keeping well, nice to hear from you! A country could, yes, but in the case of Serbia or Cyp, they won't until there is a (just/fair) settlement somewhere along the line...

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. Agree. They can give up the territory. But do they want to? I think Serbia wants to give up Kosovo. It just hates the way it was list and wants a good offer to let it go. It knows it can’t control 2 million Albanians. And that trying to reintegrate them into the Serbian state would be impossible; socially, politically, and economically. And there have even been many Greek Cypriots who privately say it might be time to ‘give up’ the north. President Anastasiades apparently would sometimes talk about it, and at what price. All good at my end. Very busy, though. I hope all is well with you. :-)

[@Bogdan031]

@@JamesKerLindsay Whit all respect , this is not true. Serbia doesnt want to give up Kosovo. Second , there is no evidence to Albanian/Ilyrian claims but this is irrelevant. Third , Kosovo population is not 2 million. Pristina - 550,000, Prizren- 171,464, Mitrovica -107,045, Djakovo - 94,158, Pec - 81,800... This count is from 2021, and this are citys that have bigest population of people in Kosovo, it includes all nationalitys living there. Also there is strong evidence that a lot of Albanians imigrated to west europe and usa since then.

[@margaretwalker8219]

Being half Yugoslav myself and well-travelled in the region, I have to tell you that these countries are very poor. I was in Serbia and Bosnia two months ago. We saw deserted villages, particularly in Bosnia, and there is emigration to Western Europe from every region of the old Yugoslavia. Tito evidently held together the impossible country, but I think that there was prosperity in unity.

[@lukakosanin9968]

If albanians can declare independence from kosovo then serbs in kosovo can declare independence from kosovo too

[@NikolaHD]

This is soo well put together. For the first time I agree with everything being said here. Not a single sentence was said where i was thinking "do i agree with it?". I wish in the future we can resolve this issue and try to get along.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much Nikola. That means a lot to me given the interesting conversations we have had. Let's hope something can be done. This issue really is doing enormous damage to Kosovo and Serbia.

[@serbianwarrior385]

​@@JamesKerLindsayTo Serbia and its south region of Kosovo* There that how u should say it

[@59vlada]

@@serbianwarrior385 That doesn't fit his job description...

[@glicmathan1771]

Excellent analysis and history. Thank you!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you very much. Really appreciated.

[@enisbaftiu1302]

Prof, I appreciate you taking the time to study this! Very well put together. Regards, from Kosovo.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you very much Enis. I really appreciate it. Very best regards from my end too.

[@armchairwarrior963]

If you count population or number of countries. Kosovo is not recognized, but its mainly mostly western back. If the world is a democracy Kosovo lost in a land slide.

[@markoukic5452]

as a Serb I have to say the only YT channel that managed to tackle Belgrade-Pristinas Gordian knot without bias... Respect.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much Marko! I really appreciate it. I know that lots of viewers won’t be happy, but hopefully I fairly and accurately outlined the problem.

[@Machivious]

Hey Prof. Great video. Very balanced perspective on a very complex issue. Being Serbian, you are correct there is plenty of resentment regarding Kosovo and the civil wars that engulfed Yugoslavia. It’s a very emotional topic. The perspective held in my circle of friends is that this is another hoop for Serbia to jump through. They don’t believe in eventual integration with EU and even if there was a promise the price is too high to pay. The price where Serbia is loosing a significant percentage of it’s territory, being humiliated and not to mention Kosovo’s vast deposits of natural resources. After being under Ottoman occupation with the loss of independence for 500 years, they see this as a form of neo colonisation with the presence of double standards in the region and resist it. The current unrest in Ukraine, I believe in part can be source what happened to Serbia regarding Kosovo. Either way, the impression is that with the likely hood of progression to a multipolar system, Serbia’s negotiating position could be improved with the pending change in geopolitics. Either way, above all in my circle of friends is for all people to respect each other (culture, religion and state borders) and to live in harmony with the acknowledgement of the past done to each other through the centuries. I look forward to view more topics on your channel.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much! I can completely understand why people in Serbia feel so disillusioned. The EU isn’t showing the commitment it needs to at the moment. (France has of course led this cooling towards enlargement.) on the resources argument, I hear this a lot from Kosovo and Serbia. But the truth is that there doesn’t seem to be much there. If there was, there would be a lot more activity. Overall, I just think it’s time fur a final settlement if this issue. I always preferred the land swap idea. But this was killed off by Britain and Germany.

[@kingpunz]

Under ottoman occupation for 500 years. Followed by serbian occupation for 100 years. Finally headed towards freedom for the natives.

[@abhabh6896]

@@kingpunz I will not argue with you, I will just wait for the fighting to start. Can win with a pen against an illiterate person.

[@soul8938]

@@kingpunz very well said, his standpoint shows the very egocentric worldview he has

[@N.a.t.t]

@@kingpunz 200 Years of Serbian occupation, 500 years of ottoman, 100 years of Serbian again. And we still has our language 💪🏼

[@nemanjabijeiic232]

Great work with the video James. You’ve presented the issues in a clear and succinct way. Keep up the great work.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you. I know a lot if people don’t be happy with this - on both sides. But it’s time they both started listening to each other and understanding how Kosovo needs to balance international law with practical political realities. This has gone on too long.

[@esense9602]

Let's be honest and not make a lot of assumption about this one, the reason why Kosovo is getting their independence is because NATO want to pressure Russia and Serbia.

[@jasminj5530]

and the alternative is what? genocide? ethnic cleansing?

[@bingo737]

@@jasminj5530 You just demonised an entire nation. Congrats

[@jasminj5530]

@@bingo737 War is not about individuals. It takes a nation to star 3 wars in a few years (well 4 to be exact).

[@bingo737]

​@@jasminj5530 I am literally drowning in your ignorance.

[@Besi3456]

Kosovo got its independence 15 years ago NOT NOW. Its institutions are fully functional and Serbia doesn't have presence in Kosovo territory for the last 24 years now

[@jjj6988]

The possible outcome is if Serbia recognizes Kosovo, they can push for self-determination for Republika Srpska in Bosnia

[@bilic8094]

Serbia won't recognize so called kosovo people are already taking to the streets to let the president know it's not his to give away.

[@MB-sh3dz]

Rs will never be a country. Just not possible, it can only cause another war.

[@jjj6988]

@M B self-determination doesnt equals independence

[@serbianwarrior385]

Republika Srpska already has autonomy for like 25 years now😂

[@burprobrox9134]

Is the security council still relevant? If every vote is vetoed by one of the sides, is it surprising that a unilateral action is taken at this point. I’d love a video with your insights into the importance and relevance of the UN Security Council in 2023

[@milostomic8539]

It is relevant.All 5 permanent members of the Security Council must approve application for membership. In this case, Russia and possibly China would use veto power.

[@kostam.1113]

It's actually really good that there is so much disagreement since it's means that there is diversity of views

[@雷-t3j]

@@kostam.1113 Maybe in regards to the complicated situation in the Balkans, but when one the permanent members is literally fascist I don't think so.

[@kostam.1113]

@@雷-t3j There are no fascist permanent members Russia is authoritarian China is communist dictatorship France, USA and UK are flawed democracies at best...

[@abhabh6896]

@雷 Anericans can be like that sometimes, depending on the government

[@pbubalo]

Wow, as I Serb I find your analysis surprising objective and reasonable! No easy task considering the complexities and the extreme anti Serb bias that's out there. Well done! 👍

[@bunnylarese2161]

Why is it ok for Kosovo to leave Serbia, but Srpska can’t leave Bosnia?

[@pbubalo]

@@bunnylarese2161 Exactly! Its hypocrisy and double standards

[@you_can_change_alias]

Not everyone is against the Serbs. For hundreds of years, we still haven't managed to argue.🇷🇴🤝🇸🇰

[@Besi3456]

@@bunnylarese2161 the world is not that simple that is why. Kosovo's history is completely different from the short history of Republika Srpska. You can read more to understand how Srpska appeared(after the genocide) and what is the history of Kosovo and its population.

[@tompeled6193]

@@bunnylarese2161 Because of Serbian war crimes in the 90s.

[@Nick-exZ]

Dear Prof. Lindsay, Another well-done video! I respect your determination to be as unbiased as possible from a foreign perspective. So, I wish to add one vital detail that you've missed in the video. By the Brussels agreement (signed by Kosovo* as well) from 2013. the autonomy for the Serbian communities was supposed to be enacted already, but there has been no real progress towards its realization for the past 10 years. So, the EU isn't actually offering anything new to the table for the Serbian side with this initiative. This is why the new negotiations are being seen as "capitulation" from the Serbian side. Because here people know that the other side has not acknowledged their part of the agreement, while Serbia has withdrawn its institutions from the north of Kosovo and Metohija.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks Nikola. I thought I did explicitly mention that the 2013 agreement included the provision for the Association and that this has never been realised.

[@Nick-exZ]

@@JamesKerLindsay I phrased it wrongly, you have mentioned it but I wanted to go deeper on it and briefly say why the new negotiations are being seen as a negative here, and why there is skepticism around a new round of negotiations. :)

[@isaactomangrief9158]

Excellent point, Nikola. I would like to add that from Prishtinë, it is seen as the other way around: the commitments made in '13-'15 by Serbia to dismantle various parallel structures have not been undertaken and indeed Belgrade's control of Kosovo Serb life has increased in some areas. The license plate dispute, mentioned in the video, was instigated when the Kosovo government tried to enforce the standardisation of plates as agreed as part of a bilateral, EU agreement (I think the 2015 one) and Serbia resisted. Kurti argues that they want to respect the rights of Serbs in Kosovo, but they can't negotiate with Kosovo Serbs themselves, they are forced to talk to Belgrade. My point isn't that either side is right, but that the EU has lost mediation credibility from the Kosovar Albanian perspective too. It seems to sell out to Vučić's demands and pushes Belgrade's agenda rather than standing up for the agreements it helped broker.

[@Nick-exZ]

@@isaactomangrief9158 Yeah, I have talked to some Albanian mates in the past regarding this. I can definitely see where the Kosovo side is coming from and I agree to some degree. The largest problem with the cooperation between the north and the central Kosovo government is that the Serbian population there is heavily under the influence of the Serbian mafia (which also has close ties to Belgrade currently), leading to the populace responding how they see fit. The credibility argument from the Kosovar Albanian perspective is always interesting to hear because here it's always propagated how the EU serves only the Albanians' interests.

[@bilic8094]

@@MilanTheMan69 The only agreement is 1244.

[@mihajlo572]

EU plan is stupid, why would Serbia want to basically recognize Kosovo and get Comunity of Serbian Muncipalities in return,when that was agreed on in 2013. Kosovo should just implement the agreement,they dont have to get anything in return for that.

[@bilic8094]

Nothing will happen with this plan and it shouldn't kosovo will be solved on the battlefield sooner or later.

[@getsch5465]

serbia should first implements the 2/3 agreements that they didnt implement yet 👌

[@mladennestorovic3366]

@@getsch5465 hahhaha lol...Serbia should stick to it's sovereign policy and to resolution 1244. EU is not going to receive us in the foreseeable future, so there is no point to rush. Time is on Serbia's side, 850 000 people left Kosovo by 2018, and I believe that at the end of 2023, Kosovo will have a population of one million citizens. With quo status, and this huge unemployment on Kosovo, young people will continue to move out and in the years to come Kosovo will become even more depopulated and much bigger shithole than Moldova, and we will get it back without any resistance.

[@getsch5465]

@@mladennestorovic3366 the dark soul of your nation is still here, you dying slowly

[@alinoor6515]

Kosovo shd b recognised as independent country

[@Nista357]

Europe will only start to understand Serbia when Kosovo's start popping out all over other countries in the EU. Luckily or not, we won't have to wait long to see that happen.

[@katerpesa]

Do you mean to copy what Serbs are doing now?

[@seneca983]

In most EU members there aren't significant enough tensions for something like that to happen. The closest examples would probably be Catalonia and Basque Country.

[@Nista357]

@@seneca983 You are not aware how fast things change. Germany, France, Belgium will have 15% Muslim population in just a few years. You can see for yourself all the terror attacks that happened in the last 10 years. Most people think its just an accidental abomination. Its not, its a picture of daily reality of Europe for the next few hundreds of years.

[@seneca983]

@@Nista357 "You can see for yourself all the terror attacks that happened in the last 10 years." Terror attacks don't make countries bankrupt. They'd have to be pretty spectacular to do something like that.

[@Nista357]

@@seneca983 Who's talking about bankrupcy?

[@edj49]

Churchill once said that “the Balkans produce more history than they can consume”.

[@albanianblood9343]

Thats int.

[@larrysirname]

No he didn't, plus that quote references Crete, not the Balkans

[@vladadjo]

As I have told you on a number of occasions, dear James, and i now I am going through a few videos I have missed so far, I absolutely love your production because it is to-the-point, with videos being of just about the right length and as informative as they can get.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much Vladimir! I really and truly appreciate it. :-) I have had to take a but of a break recently with the move. But hoping to get back into things now. I hope you are keeping well.

[@vladadjo]

Yup, all well here, I hope with you as well. Keep up the great work you are doing!@@JamesKerLindsay

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Great stuff! We’ll be in touch soon. :-)

[@AndrewMann205]

Excellent historical presentation. May these groups eventually find peace.

[@americasfavoritebrazilian2399]

I never thought I'd see a statue of Clinton. Until i visited Kosovo. I wanted to push it down lol

[@ShubhamMishrabro]

James do you agree republic of sprska should get independence if kosovo gets its independence?I think this could be a good solution for all problems in Balkans

[@merxho95]

No because thats against the Dayton Agreement which the Serbs signed aswell.

[@3ndrei]

@@merxho95and kosovo independence is against international law. So can’t have both

[@greatwolf5372]

@Andrei C At the end of the day international laws are just suggestion. Might makes right. US has thousands of troops next door to Serbia and Serbia trades mostly with the EU. US and EU will get what they want regardless of right, wrong or hypocrisy.

[@merxho95]

@@3ndrei The international court of justice thinks otherwise.

[@lovetohate028]

@@merxho95 then the court is biased and should be ignored

[@JH-pv6rd]

Thank you for another great video.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you very much indeed!

[@peterkops6431]

I have ordered “Secession and State Creation”. Have to wait until mid-March for it to arrive unfortunately 😢. I really look forward to getting a more in-depth view of your knowledge. You have a real bunch of fans within my family!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much Peter! That’s great. I do hope you enjoy the book. And I’m delighted to hear that the videos are going down well with your family. Do say hello to them! :-)

[@peterkops6431]

@@JamesKerLindsay will do!

[@kelian69]

People seem to forget about a few really important points - there were around 300 racially fueled incidents just in the last year in Kosmet, there are Serbs living south of Ibar as well, and Albanians tend to not only revise history by destroying traces of hundreds of years of Serbian presence in the region but monasteries and churches (and there’s a lot of them there) will be targeted the second that they get their hands on them. Even if Serbia was willing to consider to approve of just losing a big part of it’s territory in order to receive absolutely nothing for it (because it will never be enough) what guarantees does it have that its people as well as its cultural heritage will be intact? While this analysis is really well put and objective it just shows that no one can really understand why Serbia is so adamant in its stance. It’s all just so materialistic to you people.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. This is perhaps the most powerful argument in Serbia’s favour. Kosovo does have profound cultural importance for Serbia and there is a Serbian community under threat. However, and this is important, it also seems profoundly unreasonable to make a permanent claim to territory based on this when it means controlling the destiny of the best part of two million people. This is all the more so when one considers that the Serbs in the South of Kosovo are steadily disappearing. Even if Serbia were to retain Kosovo, it would come at an extraordinarily high price. It would have to keep its autonomy. But it would also have to be given extensive political rights and powers in Serbia itself. This would include a significant proportion of parliamentary seats, positions in government, allocated places in the civil service. The Serbian state would be one a Serbian and Albanian state. Would people in Serbia really want this. I know many would say “yes, if it meant holding on to Kosovo.” The irony is that those who would say this most loudly are the ones who would hate this outcome most passionately: Serbian nationalists. Most ordinary people - and believe me I know Serbia far, far better than you realise - would not want this. The nationalists, in reality, would hate it with a passion. Ultimately, for what it’s worth, I have always argued that some sort if territorial solution make most sense. The north was never really Albanian anyway. And there could be special provisions for the religious sites. But this would be the most logical, face-saving outcome that really respects what people want. (And a little less of ‘you people’. You were doing so well until that little, unnecessary snipe.)

[@kelian69]

@@JamesKerLindsay it’s a little early in the morning, I am a bit salty. I apologize.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

@@kelian69 No worries. I know what you mean. Have a good day. :-)

[@kelian69]

@@JamesKerLindsay thank you, proffessor. You have yourself a great weekend.

[@Bardockvision]

What a spot on look. Your brought up Dardanians. Wow. Beyond words regarding your knowledge. Never seen a channel going so deep. Keep up the good work.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. Yes, it is an interesting element of the story that is often missed out. Kosovo does have a very long and fascinating history.

[@Nista357]

Dardanians 🤣🤣

[@dzonikg28]

Albanians are Dardanians like you say Macedonians descent from Aleksandar Makedonsky

[@sOnIcBo0mBoY]

Why don't they move the border? If the northern area is majority Serbian ..?! (Genuine question from an outsider who knows very little)

[@nervachadikus]

Because only half of the Serbs live in the north. There are also things like the Serbian cultural heritage in Kosovo that includes hundreds of monasteries, churches, monuments, etc. (As a Serb, the cultural importance of Kosovo and Metohija is unimaginable, like Mecca/Medina for Muslims or Jerusalem for Jews, but besides the religious significance your peoples entire history is based on it). Redrawing borders according to ethnic lines also creates new problems for the region because there are still A LOT of Serbs that aren't a part of Serbia. If this were to happen Bosnia would definitely be split in half (Leaders of the Republika Srpska actually constantly issue threats that, if Kosovo is accepted into the UN, Srpska will declare independence from Bosnia and then you have a second Bosnian war).

[@afrimlargimi16382]

It was made an idea for territorial exchange, but that didnt go well, since for Serbia that would mean changing territories with a state that they consider Serbia, and Kosovo's political class didnt wanted since that would have break the serious statehood of Kosovo, and would make it seem as a country who exchange territories as many times as it comes as a plan. Mostly it was shut down by Albanian political class. Me as an Albanian saw this plan as a great deal.

[@sOnIcBo0mBoY]

@@afrimlargimi16382 Thnx .. what the world needs right now is a some compromise. Political classes don't feel the pain.

[@59vlada]

@@nervachadikus To add important "details": even pro-Albanian historians like Malcolm do not deny that Kosovo was predominantly Serbian until the 2nd half of 19th century, when Serbs were subjected to waves of terror by Shqiptar mainly from today's Albania, who were supported by Ottomans using Shqiptar against Serbian movement for liberation. Another wave of immigration from Albania was after WW2 when Tito's regime practically left the border open for it. In short, talking about "ethnic Shqiprar/Albanians" on Kosovo is pretty ambiguous.

[@nielsreyngoud2870]

Once again I’m astonished by your neutral and fact based analysis. If politicians on either of the side would share this rational logic, the conflict would be solved within a finger’s snap.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks a lot Niels. I really do believe this can solved. But there is obviously a lot of emotion tied up with it.

[@serbianwarrior385]

U dont know what u talking about, this is too deep to be solved in short time.

[@MrChuckya]

I'm from Serbia and the only thing I can say is, Thank you James. You clearly seem to care about our messed up region and you are one of the only people who talk about it from an unbiased perspective.

[@haroonsuresh2326]

Unbiased 🙄

[@Bata600]

Serbia is too far away from joining EU for them to see it as incentive to recognize Kosovo. Losing investments is something that has greater influence but that would also mean for EU to set Serbia on a sure pathway towards Russia. Which EU, themselves do not wish as well.

[@aalldldakekjs8981]

Russia has no powere serbia is surrounded by nato members and powers linking up with russia would be a surefire way to completely ruining the country

[@bilic8094]

That's only vucic panicking about losing investments he shouldn't of brought in German investments in the first place we all know they will always use it as leverage against Belgrade.

[@joeyjojojrshabadoo7462]

Might as well tried to offer Russia and Ukraine joint NATO membership. Interesting proposal that maybe could have worked if it was still the early 1990s.

[@neokorteks2009]

Excellent unbiased overview James!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you very much Dejan.

[@bilic8094]

It was unbiased and it's very hard to balance a fine line in balkan politics.

[@garedmorort]

Why don’t they give up the land where Serbs live in Kosovo in exchange for independence? Maybe they could join Albania later

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. This is actually an idea I have long supported. But many Western countries (especially Britain and Germany) oppose this for reasons that don’t make a lot of sense.

[@garedmorort]

@@JamesKerLindsay Thanks for the reply! Perhaps they want to avoid them joining Albania and create another conflict with Serbia so to act as a buffer state

[@farhanatashiga3721]

Would you consider making another video on Turkey more specifically on how the recent earthquake could be the tipping point the opposition needed to overcome Erdogan in the country's upcoming elections?

[@urubissoldat5452]

Are you going to cover Moldova's recent government resignation and the possibility of a pro-Russia government being elected.

[@rogyn8484]

Milosevic in 1998 reacted just as Ukraine reacted in 2014 and even softer! During the whole 1998 UCK was illegally transferring weapons from Albania into Kosovo on which all major powers turned blind eye despite sending a direct proof of American involvement in those actions and warnings about mass arming. Winter 1998/99 Serbs intercepted huge armed group of armed terrorists on the border, equipment they had with weapons, maps, coordinates were clearly been given by the US. During the whole 1998/99 Serbian border patrols were constantly attacked from the side of Albanian border (violation of international law by attacking border of another country), then terrorist groups organized mass kidnappings of local Serbs and Albanians who do not support UCK who were especially cruel to their own Albanians who do not supported conflict. Bombing itself without UN approval is another brake of international law, then targeting civilian objects, infrastructures, media, trains and embassy is war crime for which no one in the West was ever responsible. March 2004 NATO troops were supposed to protect locals in crisis situation and all they did back then was standing outside and watching how more then 100 Serbian Churches in Kosovo were burning for the whole week before they took any control over situation (direct violation of resolution 1244). Brussels agreement Serbia implemented 90% of the signed things, Albanian side implemented exactly 0% of what they promised to do (another violation). Why would we accept independence of Kosovo? If I am the last Serb in world and if in Kosovo today live 99% Albanians I would never give that signature because it is matter of principles on which by the way today US and UK are calling all the time not remembering how many times they broke those by themselves.

[@predragnikitz9106]

Excellent analysis, professor!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you very much. I know how sensitive it is, but I think we do need to have some honest conversations about this situation - in Belgrade, Pristina and in many international capitals.

[@Wfalen]

While many see Vuvic as a hard nationalist, he IS actually a pretty practical man in the end. He does not want to close the doors to the EU and the west even if he has to talk hard to keep his voter base.

[@milostomic8539]

He's neither a hard nationalist nor a practical man. Vucic is a blackmailed man.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

@ParempiJallu I would actually agree.

[@serbianwarrior385]

Vučić is biggest traitor in Serbian history

[@chegayvara1136]

Good vid. We'll see if Russia and China accept Kosovo's UN memebership though as they have their own motivations for denying it. An understanding that they won't regardless could be the reason why Vucic would consider potentially committing political suicide (and frankly it wasn't that long ago literal assassinations were much more common in Serbian politics)

[@milostomic8539]

They won't accept it.

[@stevet5785]

@@milostomic8539 We can only hope. And then we can say that the Chinese and Russians are bigger Serbs than the Serbian leadership itself. I am still shocked at how many Serbs don't see that Vucic is a traitor and western lapdog...

[@milostomic8539]

@@stevet5785 And potentially president/prime minister for life.

[@bilic8094]

Russia and China are good friends of Serbia they'll never do anything against the country.

[@SiRasputin]

Its interesting that the prof supports autonomy for the serbs inside a would-be kosovo state. However this autonomy was precisely on the table for russians in the donbas, but rejected by the ukranians and the west. I have to say that both cases appear to be divide and conquer tactics employed by the US. If independence for kosovo with autonomy for serbs is the answer in the balkans, why not for the donbas? After all, ukraine had sovereignty over the donbas. But it refused to allow autonomy and suppressed russian language and culture. I wonder professor, do you support autonomy for the donbas and crimea? These are clearly russian people. Given that donbas autonomy was precisely the deal on the table before the war, why did the west not accept this? Im really struggling to see how this is not another manifestation of russophobia

[@thomassenbart]

The Serbs care more about their history and pride than anything else overall in my experience. This directly affects Kosovo. All the Serbs I know and speak with are very militant and will attempt to conquer Kosovo given any legitimate opportunity.

[@bilic8094]

Well if Ukraine can say they will conquer crimea plus get encouraged by western countries to do it how is it bad if Serbs say they'll do the same with it's illegally occupied territory ?

[@SashaArsic]

Not conquer, because you do not conquer what is yours. And UN resolution 1244 says it's a part of Serbia.

[@mou6854]

@@SashaArsic it defacto isnt

[@joeblack5393]

Correct. If there cant be a just solution brokered with the West, then we will wait however long we have to and resolve the issue militarily, same way it was created in the first place, when that becomes possible. The same way Azerbaijan is resolving Nagorno-Karabakh issue.

[@mou6854]

@@joeblack5393 Serbia is surronded by NATO, wake up and stop dreaming. Even Vucic knows that with the added fact millions of serb have moved out of Serbia to the EU. imagine what would happen under total sanctions and a blockade

[@dukeh32]

I really like your videos on the subject, its very rare to find somebody in the west that actually bother reading up on things. One question, how come you (nor anybody else I had to dig dig dig to find it) mentions the real reason why Kosovo is part of Serbia and not Albania. The question has been on the table several times. Kosovo was attached to Albania as part of the Axis intervention in 1941. And again after the Italian surrender the Albanians sided with Hitler 1943. Allowing the a brutal regime in Kosovo until the end of the war. Hence when the question came up in the alliance of the united nations during the war and in the following conferences the decision was taken to confirm Serbia's right to the territory. In other words the territory was granted to the Serbs as reward for there suffering and sacrifice in the fight against Hitler, and to punish the Albanians for there crimes. Crucially unlike many of the other territories, like the Sudetenland in the Czeck republic or east Prussia, there was no forced transfer of population, ie the Albanians where allowed to stay by Tito. While for the west this might not be understood, I am quite sure that the other nations, like Russia and China that suffered greatly under WW2 understand this very well.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much! Really interesting question. The view was that the sides that had fought with sides should not lose any territory as a result of the war. Nor should the sides that fought with the axis gain land. But this was a rather different time in international relations. The current rules were still bring formed.

[@dukeh32]

​@@JamesKerLindsay Well, the view on not transferring of territory was upheld in the west, but by no means in the east, where borders where redrawn. And in the case of Kosovo the ownership was confirmed. What I am pointing out, or at least try to is that people in the current discourse have a tendency to omit the importance of Potsdam, and the other conferences that where held in adjacency to the end of the last (latest) great war. And the relevance that these treaties play today, at least in the eyes of the people in the east, say Russia, China. the US under Clinton and further presidents has negated on several of the key principals that where agreed upon by the great allies. Where the attack on Yugoslavia was perhaps the most violent example, where NATO actually fought a war to deny Serbia the right that was granted to her by the allies. But its not alone, NATO has expanded to the east and now wants to include Ukraine and Georgia. Far beyond the boundaries that Stalin was promised by Churchill. The US is also denying China control over Taiwan, or at least that is the view from Beijing. It could be an interesting future topic :)

[@ALIMATT123]

Great video as always Professor! already can't wait for next week's

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. I’m planning one of my occasional Q&A videos. I always like doing them. A little less formal. :-)

[@joeblack5393]

My only contention to this video is near the end when you claim that Serbia must recognize that it was unrealistic for it to expect that Kosovo should remain a part of Serbia. Look, you mention that the Western actions have caused the feeling of resentment and hypocrisy, and i agree, thats a pretty fair assessment. But you failed to point out why this is. And the reason is simple. Serbia is being told to accept the reality that a part of its territory should be made into a separate country, by the same group of nations who deny the very same right to the Serbs who live in Bosnia and Croatia. In Bosnia Serbs even, de facto and de jure by the interntational law, have a republic within a republic, which is a step that is one level above what Albanians have had in Kosovo. So why is it that sovereignty and territorial integrity are sacred, when it comes to Serbs desiring to separate from other countries, but for some reason Serbia's sovereignty and territorial integrity are irrelevant when it comes to a national minority wanting to separate from Serbia? Also one small addendum to the point about self determination and decolonization; even if we were to apply these principles to Kosovo, which is not an outlandish proposition despite the fact that Kosovo is not in Africa, there is one key important thing that makes Kosovo different to both former colonies in Africa AND Kurds in Kurdistan: Kosovo is inhabited by ethnic Albanians. People who already have a free and sovereign nation state called Albania. This UN principle literally doesnt apply to them in any way shape or form. The only way to avoid the feeling of resentment and hypocrisy is to stop promoting double standards. Pick one principle - either sovreignity and territorial integrity - OR absolute right to self determination and apply it everywhere all at once. So if Kosovo has the right to separate, automatically, so do the Serbs in Bosnia and Croatia. But now this mess that you people (Westerners) have made is even bigger. Because guess what? Russians are also looking at what youre doing. And making a completely logical argument based on that. If Kosovo can, so can Crimea, Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporozhie, Kherson, Kharkov, Sumy, Chernigov etc etc etc. Lets see where this brave new world takes us!

[@SashaArsic]

If it's unrealistic that Kosovo remains a part of Serbia than it's equally unrealistic that Mitrovica remains part of Kosovo, Republika Srpska remains part of Bosnia, Donbas remains part of Ukraine etc etc. They have painted themselves in a corner and refuse to acknowledge that, so they revert to "but they are the bad guys so it's different" argument. For us and many others, they (NATO) are the bad guys, and pushing this narative only leads to a new world war.

[@DemPilafian]

You're ignoring this part of the video: *_"Kosovo cannot be seen as a precedent for any other situation in the world today."_* 7:03 You have to defeat the reasoning behind that statement before you yammer on about hypocrisy. That entails talking about some ugly stuff you'd prefer to sweep under the rug.

[@joeblack5393]

@@DemPilafian No i dont because that statement is unreasonable and illogical to begin with. Its the equivalent of me beating you up, breaking every bone in your body and then making a claim that your beating up was a unique case that cant be used as a precedent for any other case of people being beaten up without any legal consequences. In other words this is a typical Western attempt to justify an illegal action after its been carried out. The same way as you can hear US apologists say "it doesnt matter that Iraq didnt have WMDs, Saddam was a dictator".

[@simpmaster7995]

Stupid argument.

[@TheRemover469]

@DemPilafian Thats nonsense, the only reason the west say it's a specific case from other independence movements is because they're trying to sweep the mess they made in Kosovo under the rug, which is why they are using threats so that both sides sign the agreement. It's still hypocrisy. To break a sovereign countries territorial integrity on the sole basis of demographics is nonsense, especially when the whole western world agreed that it was Serbian territory until of course it became convenient to say it was no that is.

[@zmajooov]

It would be profoundly idiotic for Serbia agree to anything. The idea of Serbia joining EU, considering reality is ludicrous at best. Kosovo is a failed statelet protectorate created by USA for it's own interests, and once they bugger off, and they will bugger off - sooner rather than later, what is to Stop Serbia from simply steamrolling Kosovo and expelling Albanians just like they did to Serbs after NATO took over? General poverty, unemployment and widespread corruption has arguably depopulated Kosovo to almost under one million people, and this trend will only become stronger in the future. Considering the morality of the situation is naive, west has shown time and again that might makes right. One can either choose to be ignorant of this or to accept it as a reality and act accordingly.

[@Yalbou]

How come kosovo can get independence but not the russians in ukraine?

[@OtongOmot]

Wonderful analysis, Professor Jim! I have order your new book last year, it hasn't arrives yet. Thanks you Prof.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. That’s really kind of you. I really hope you enjoy the book. It should be available soon.

[@emequaza5537]

An unbiased and informative video on a hot topic. As a person from another heavily nationalist country in the former eastern bloc, I agree on your 3 points that both sides need to accept, if the peace is to be lasting or real. Even though I sympatize with Kosovo Albanians and their desire to be independent, we need to acknowledge that the process that led to independent Kosovo is not exactly the most ,,legal'' in the international sense. Still it's important to acknowledge, that despite idealism of some western diplomats, that ethnic identity is the primary factor for identifying with the state in the region. That means several things: 1. Serbia regaining control of Kosovo would not end the conflict. Ethnic Albanians in Kosovo will still see Serbians as foreigners and would rebel or try to secede at the next opportunity. 2. Despite western pressure, Kosovo is not a state without ethnicity. It is an Albanian polity. Serbs will feel a closer connection to Serbia, even if Kosovo is recognized as independent. This will lead to separatism if Serbian communities are left close to the border. In my opinion the only peace that can last is Kosovo giving up its' northern Serbian munincipalities in exchange for recognition. Kosovo would recieve international acceptence. Serbia would improve relationship with the West and domestically could argue that they couldn't get any more concessions. Both sides would somewhat benefit. People who insist that ,,redrawing borders in the balkans to match ethnicity is never a good solution'' need to remember that the majority of people there would not be happy in the long run with other solutions. Others fearing that it might lead to breakup of Bosnia... Bosnia is already unstable, Kosovo won't be that big of a change. It might even appease some serbian nationalists. If the wounds between the sides are to heal, both sides need to be able to have their self-determination. Appealing to ,,justice'' either for ,,Albanian freedom fighters'' or ,,Persecuted Serbs defending alone from the west'' will not lead to reconciliation. Autonomy for Serbs in Kosovo in exchange for independence might work too, but I fear it would just fuel Serbian nationalism and irredentism, while the Albanians would seek to abolish it in the future. Kosovo Albanians I spoke with don't support AofSM, fearing it would be a repeat of Bosnia government paralysis. Anyways that's just my opinion. A bunch of other things like water rights, mines etc. would probably need to be negotiated, but I'm not a lawyer or a diplomat.

[@kostam.1113]

It's either partition on ethnic lines Or heavy autonomy for Serbs (with serious international guarantees of that autonomy) Anything else will just mean conflict either frozen or hot...

[@Krasipol]

This is the best depiction for Serbias side i have ever heard. Usually itˋs just "kosovo je srbija!!!!!" or something along those lines.

[@dzonikg28]

Kosovo je Srbija

[@milicastanar9654]

Kosovo je Srbija

[@serbianwarrior385]

Because Kosovo is Serbia for us and will stay forever.NATO will eventually leave Kosovo but Serbs are staying

[@rathersane]

Perhaps the association could be given Scottish-style devolution rather than status as a fully-fledged federal unit. This might ensure a large measure of autonomy while preventing “Bosnianization”.

[@soul8938]

That would be a good idea since the fears and distrust of the bosnian system highly understandable

[@covfefe1787]

yeah and what party controls the Scottish parliament? giving a minority a parliament just leads to succession. land swap agreement will end along with automatic EU membership for Serbia Kosovo and Bosnia.,

[@TotilaTheGoth]

No. It's not possible. Especially when one side(Albanians) is unwilling for any sort of compromise knowing they have support of the West. And when other side(Serbs) is forced to concede by the the West almost at gunpoint. In any case. I think the West needs more African migrants in their rural neighborhoods.

[@ShubhamMishrabro]

😂

[@3ndrei]

So true, I mean look at all the shootings on Serbs recently, imagine if that was the opposite, there would be calls for further military intervention

[@TotilaTheGoth]

@@3ndrei Indeed. By the way, your comment is not showing up.

[@Nista357]

@@TotilaTheGoth I can't wait for more African migrants to arrive to Europe, because EU will start to understand Serbia's position when African republics start popping up all over it. I think we won't have to wait that much to see that happen.

[@TotilaTheGoth]

@@Nista357 It will be enjoyable to watch that happens. James' own country already has an Indian PM. So they're on a good way for that to happen.

[@srkizen5691]

I must say this is typical case of stating extensive amount of facts to build credibility only to reach wrong, or at least very questionable conclusion in the end. Although this video does present a lot of facts, it omitted even more crucial elements of the story.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

No, it doesn’t. Seriously, I know this issue better than the vast majority of either Serbs or Albanians. I have written about it extensively and commented regularly on it for the Serbian and Albanian media. And unless you point out the details of why I was wrong, all this comment says to other viewers is that you didn’t like the conclusions, not that they were wrong or inaccurate. I’m all for a proper debate, but at least open with some points to discuss.

[@srkizen5691]

@@JamesKerLindsay Point number one: Kosovo indeed is a unique case, but not because any other reason other than amount of arm twisting from the West. By making conclusion that Serbia has to accept anything is opposite to all other cases of minorities seeking independence in the world. Point number two: You've stated Kosovo was not republic of former Yugoslavia and then concluded it kinda was, which is not the fact, but rather an opinion. Vojvodina had same form of autonomy as Kosovo, for example, yet nobody ever concluded it was "kinda" republic. Point number three: KLA was declared to be terrorist organization decade(s) before events that they claim made them become ever happened. Point number four (omitted territory now): So called brutal governance of Serbia over Kosovo is just a product of propaganda used to justify 1999. intervention. It's enough to look at demographics of Kosovo for the last 120 years to conclude that is absurd proposition as Albanian population constantly rose, decimating number of Serbs, in the land and circumstances that were supposed to be oppressive and violent. Point number five (probably the key issue): Who owns everything on Kosovo? What is Kosovo mostly known for today (aside from conflict with Serbia)?

[@clouds2593]

The double standard of the Collective West, if they recognise Kosovo wishes and independence so should they recognise the status of Crimea.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. But the case did Kosovo really stands on its status as a republic in all but name. As Yugoslavia disintegrated it made little sense for it to remain tied to Serbia when Montenegro, which had far more in common with Serbia, and was far smaller, was entitled to go its own way.

[@Kalimdor199Menegroth]

@@JamesKerLindsay Montenegro was Constitutionally allowed to secede, as it was a federal constituent of Yugoslavia. Kosovo was not. Therefore its independence proclamation and the recognition is received violated international law and produced a precedent which can be applied in other cases. You can't blame Russia or other nations that use this precedent to promote their interests. The damage has been done, the international law has been modified with the Kosovo precedent, therefore others can make use of this as they see fit.

[@clouds2593]

@@Kalimdor199Menegroth Well said.

[@diktrejsi8214]

@@JamesKerLindsay Montenegreens are nation who had own state for centuries and Albanians have their motherland,, Albania

[@mile_381]

@@Kalimdor199Menegroth The court delivered its advisory opinion on 22 July 2010; by a vote of 10 to 4, it declared that "the adoption of the declaration of independence of 17 February 2008 did not violate general international law because international law contains no 'prohibition on declarations of independence', nor did the adoption of the declaration of independence violate UN Security Council Resolution 1244, since this did not describe Kosovo's final status, nor had the Security Council reserved for itself the decision on final status.

[@madmouse4400]

I'm not Serb , but the Kosovo case always baffles me. There are breakaway territories which were out of the control of the parent state - e.g.: Nagorno karabakh not controlled by Azerbaijan for almost 30 years - but they still had the right to retake it . There are territories with a local majority that is source of tension and maybe war - e.g. Serbs in Bosnia ,or Kurds in Turkey . Heck every breakaway territory after forceful reintegration is a potential source of tension and war in the future - but each respective parent state has the right to keep said territories. There are minorities in some territories which have suffered severe human rights abuses (even worst than Kosovo Albanians) - e.g. Kurds in Iraq who were literally gassed ! - they still didn't have the right to breakaway. So how am I supposed to not think that there's no double standard? That it's not an Hypocrisy? That the night doesn't make right? All the impression I am getting from it is that everybody has to dance to the music of the west if they don't want to become pariah states . What is even the point of pretending to care about the international law? Why not simply give up the farce and being clear about their interest? Is it pride ? Moral Self gratification?

[@The_Albanski]

Iraq had WMDs and bush’s decision was justified

[@LookBackHistory]

If one study history for long enough, one inevitably ends up just feeling bad for the Balkans.

[@mmb2150]

Very informative video, thank you. But I have been taught that the recognition once made cannot be withdrawn. Is that true?

[@JamesKerLindsay]

It is complex. One school of thought says this. But this isn’t the case. What you can’t really do is withdrew recognition and have nothing replace it. So, a state can’t really say that it recognises country x, but now it doesn’t accept any authority over the territory in question. (But even then, while it seems illogical to withdraw all recognition, I’m not sure it is strictly illegal.) But it is perfectly possible to say that it no longer recognises a territory as being under the territory of one country but instead recognises the authority of another sovereign state. And, remember, recognition is a sovereign act. States have full rights to choose which authority to recognise, when, where and how. So countries re-recognising Serbia’s sovereignty over Kosovo is perfectly legal and legitimate - in the same way that recognising states would say their decision to recognise Kosovo is perfectly legal and legitimate. (Although it could be argued that it violates the Un Charter’s requirement to respect the territorial integrity of other states - another question for another day.)

[@theconqueringram5295]

I would say, on a legal basis, I side with Serbia on this one. I think they dropped the ball when it came to Kosovar independence. I think what should have happened was negotiate some kind of deal, like make Serbia and Kosovo two equal partners in a federation along the lines of Austria and Hungary in Austria-Hungary, Ethiopia and Eritrea before the Eritreans fought for independence or even the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republika Srpska in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Now, I know what you're going to say "But the two former countries tried that and failed, but the latter is on shaky grounds", and you would be correct. But first, Kosovo becomes an equal partner within a dual federation with Serbia for a few years to test it out, with the promise of an independence referendum in the future. Something Sudan and South Sudan did in the late 2000s. Things are still tense and South Sudan is a failing state, but better than nothing.

[@joeblack5393]

If the West wasnt hypocritical and using clear double standards, it would do in Serbia the same thing it did in Bosnia. But as it is, in case of Serbia wests supports self determination but in Bosnia it supports the complete opposite thing. Almost as if the Western countries supported whatever was against Serbian interests in literally every single case. Huh. How curious.

[@Nista357]

@@joeblack5393 Finally I got the honor of seeing a person with the ability of critical thinking.

[@Besi3456]

You have to understand that after the war and so many crimes done by the Serbian army, the Albanian population would never accept to be ruled in any way by Serbia again nor to have any kind of joint state. The multiethnic state with so many rights to the Serbian community is already a huge compromise

[@covfefe1787]

@@Besi3456 Kosovars already started a terrorist rebellion Serbia never invaded Kosovo it was in fact the other way round.

[@IngVasiu]

As an Albanian from Albania I try not to be biased. In my point of view this analysis was pretty well done.

[@2SSSR2]

Very good video, I quite enjoyed your neutral stance on the matter as 90% of westerners just stay with "Serbs did crimes so they get nothing" card. Not realizing that in 30 years much have changed. Unfortunately, as a person who live in Belgrade I can tell this much from neutral stance - it will not happen, there is just too much bad blood. Neither side will except anything as in their eyes it will mean defeat for what they are fighting for. Knowing both nations, they would rather wait for another 100, 200 or 500 years to see how will world situation change and just adapt. I could make a lot of point why the peace between Serbs and Albanians is not possible but that will take hours. I will just note a few of them which will give you full picture what the both sides want: 1 - Great Albania (for Albanians Kosovo is not the end, they will be satisfied only when half of Montenegro, South Serbia with city of Nis and half of Macedonia is under their banner as they see it as legitimate border of their "pre-Roman Kingdon". 2 - Greater Serbia (if Serbia is to accept independent Kosovo you can bet it will ask for Republica Srpska to be integrated into Serbia next and it will show Kosovo as example - if 90% of populations in that part of the country wants to join us they should have the right to do so, this will open can of worms to Montenegro as well as the only remaining country with major Serb population to have either autonomy or option to join Serbia ). 3 - What the west wants going against both of their objectives (western countries are explicitly agaisnt any other border changes which makes everyone unhappy - even Kosovo Albanians who would also like to incorporate Presevo valley into their "country". This is also quite possibly the only reason why peace was not achieved few years ago when Tachi and Vucic were close to achieving final deal exactly becasue of territory swap which would make both of them happy - Serbia get's the North while Kosovars get Presevo valley. Only reason why it failed was becasue west was against it). 4 - Historical grudges (I do not even want to go into details here, we can go back to centuries before this but I will just note two of them - 1996 to 1999 war where Albanians were waging war for independence and 2004 where Albanians literally forced our local Serbs from their homes en masse and didn't show any regret or willingness to either accept them back or return their lands to them which they took illegaly). 5 - Stubbornness of population overall (even if there is political will accepting this deal means political suicide for both Kurti and Vucic as both their populations are some 80 to 90% against the deal. Serbs would rather face sanctions again than to give up their ancestor lands and Albanians would see it as an insult to their war for independence if they have to bow to any request from their former occupiers). So what is my take on this: this will not be accepted by both sides and while I doubt full fledged sanctions like those in the 90's (west has a lot of companies here in both places which they use to exploit cheap working force for extended profits) some of them may be employed but in the end both sides would rather accept that then to change anything.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you very much. I agree with a lot of what you said. Sadly, I think you are right about too many holding on to their positions no matter what. As it happens, I was also really angry at the way certain Western countries , notably Britain and Germany, stood in the way of the Thaci-Vucic talks. I think that it could have led to a sensible final settlement. However, far too much Western policy is still led by dogmatism and Bosnia. No border changes (although that's exactly what happened in 2008) stands in the way of an agreement.

[@bilic8094]

The western countries could find a realistic solution but I think they like instability in the region for some reason.

[@N.a.t.t]

Haha you maked me laugh with number 4. Albanians wanted war. Did you write something about what we Serbs did in Kosovo before the war and during the war???? You are trying to sound intelligent but you have so many biases. If the Albanian population had been treated like human beings in Yugoslavia everything would be different. I’m astonished by you Serbs who killed almost all neighbours and continue to see as YOURSELF as victims. Take a step back and begin to apologise for all your genocides then maybe we can have peace.

[@dev.0122]

Guys, I know this might not be the place, but i have no clue where else to ask, I am a student of international relations and am moving to the UK to finish my masters. How are the job prospects in this field in UK or otherwise in larger world.. it would be really helpful if someone from Europe can give me a clue thanks and great video professor as always.

[@teojer]

If you were in charge i am sure it would have been resolved already. Great and fair analysis professor. Thank you!

[@fpsserbia6570]

it wouldn't, countries are based on interest not on what is right, as long as countries act based on interest don't expect them to be fair.

[@teojer]

@@fpsserbia6570 Well.. yes, like most of the human relationships I guess!! But I don’t think that is in anyone’s interest not to have peace!! We have to evolve at some point.. we have tried everything in this region- apart from Peace!!

[@fpsserbia6570]

@@teojer well in order to have peace first you have to have competent people in the governments of the Balkan countries and that isn't the case, specially in Serbia i can't talk about others, other then that education is very important and only then can we try to have a peace, but even then i doubt it. there is just a lot of hate, i think that hate is a strong word but travel and see it for yourself many people feel that way towards other group of people, i m just trying to be isolated from it so i just don't even want to be where others are so that is how i " solve " the problem, it is easier.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

@Teo Jerasi Thanks. :-)

[@serbianwarrior385]

@@teojer No peace with shiptar Albanians

[@tonycb7996]

Depressing. It took Ireland 70 plus years (1922 to 1999) of intermittent "troubles" to fully accept the reality of multiple communities that do not recognise each other's sovereignty. Is that how long Kosovo/Serbia will take...?

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Great point Tony. Sadly, there is little sign of movement. In this case, there was some hope of an agreement a few years ago based on a potential consensual border change. Northern Kosovo would join Serbia and Albanian parts of Serbia would have joined Kosovo. The leaders were talking seriously about it. But Britain and Germany killed it off. How ironic.

[@diellibetim]

@@JamesKerLindsay It’s not ironic but it’s great for being refused. Changing Kosovo borders would only prove that Kosovo’s stability is not strong and even after land swap serbs would still put their fingers into destabilizing Kosovo. The richest part of Kosovo will never be serbian.

[@abhabh6896]

@@diellibetim Kosovo will never be independent

[@rpgbb]

In the 1980s, the EEC and Yugoslavia were partners and people talked for eventually membership. The events in the former Yugoslavia should be a lesson for everybody that Human Stupidity has no limits. Highly recommend to watch BBC’s series “The Death of Yugoslavia”

[@The_Albanski]

Slobodan Milosevic je rasturio Jugoslaviju,zato jer je trebala da bude Srboslavija.

[@rpgbb]

@@The_Albanski Ironically Eastern Europe and the Balkans were better off as part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the Ottoman Empire. The region is such a mix that it’s impossible to establish ethnocentric states. Better to be under Imperial rule

[@The_Albanski]

@@rpgbb Serbs hate both

[@dzonikg28]

That BBC documentary is pure propaganda.. Carefully set up with fake subtitles to play their propaganda story, so many stuff off course were not shown that did suite them

[@User-he6zd]

Honestly, if Serbia were willing to accept Kosovo I'd support giving em tons of aid, trade, co-operation and even mutual defense/NATO membership. Serbia is a great country, issue of Kosovo is really just the big divider

[@milostomic8539]

NATO membership to a country that got part of its territory occupied by NATO?!

[@milostomic8539]

@Mozzarella Cheese 🔰 I doubt it.

[@Kalimdor199Menegroth]

@Mozzarella Cheese 🔰 Kosovo is part of Serbia though. That's what most of UN members also think. We Romanians will always veto Kosovo membership in UN, NATO and EU. Kosovo is Serbian land and we support a war in the region so that Serbia can gain it back. Even if that comes at the cost of genocide. Territorial integrity is of utmost importance. People can be replaced, but territory cannot.

[@Kalimdor199Menegroth]

@Mozzarella Cheese 🔰 Says the Turk. 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@Kalimdor199Menegroth]

@Mozzarella Cheese 🔰 Lets see who's feeling will be hurt when we reject your EU accession, gypsy. 😜 Lets see who will beg us to recognize them so they can join EU and NATO. Who laughs last laughs better.

[@jasminj5530]

"dozen countries" that withdrew recognition include: "Sierra Leone, Suriname, Togo, Ghana, Nauru, the Union of Comoros, Sao Tome and Principe, Guinea-Bissau, Burundi, Liberia, Lesotho, Grenada, Madagascar, the Commonwealth of Dominica, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Palau, and the Central African Republic". I see a pattern...

[@mashinajoe]

All unimportant countries 😆 🤣 😂 bahahahahaha. USA, Germany, France, UK, UEFA, FIFA recognise kosmet. 😎

[@ianhomerpura8937]

@@mashinajoe all countries dependent on ammunition from Serbia.

[@mashinajoe]

@@ianhomerpura8937 exactly!

[@Kalimdor199Menegroth]

@@mashinajoe Unimportant for you maybe. But to be accepted in the UN, you need 2/3 votes of all members. And the fact that Serbia is convincing these countries to not recognize you is a win for their cause. How unimportant are they when you beg them to allow you in the UN? 🤣🤣 They are more important than you, that's for sure.

[@mashinajoe]

@Kalimdor199 the cash for everything comes from USA, never from those rogue states. Money talks. Understand my friend?

[@peconi234]

historic fact change since 7th century up to 1941 Serbs were majority but Nazi colaboratoros changed ethnic structure

[@Nista357]

The quick historical review of Kosovo was quite vague and misinforming. It starts from some imaginatory "Dardania" but jumps to 20th century, while completely disregarding the fact that Serbs continually live in Kosovo since 7th century or even earlier. So from 7th to 17th century Kosovo was strictly Serbian which again implies that Dardanians are actually Serbs since they fought, bled, died for Serbia and loved it for 1000 years, just as they do today. Or was the point of the video to say that there supposedly were some Dardani in 300BC but then they forgot that they were Dardani untill they remembered again in 2008AD that they are Dardani, so they unilaterally declared independence from Serbia but now in the shape of Islamic Albanians? So if Serbia was occupied by Muslims from 15th to 20th century, it implies that Kosovo Serbs were exterminated from Kosovo and replaced by Albanian Muslims during that time. Since they are Albanian Muslims they must have come from Albania. Did they exterminate the Serbs? If in 1953. Albanians made 65% of Kosovo's population, what could had happened so Albanias made 95% of the population in 2008.? "Revoked" means cancled. Kosovo still had an autonomy after 1990. Albanians, as a minority in a foreign country enjoyed all possible rights in that country but nevertheless Albanians wanted full independence by starting an armed rebellion in 1981. After being defeated and amnestied by Yugoslavia and their rights given back, they again caused armed rebellion in 1998. and after Serbia gained guarantees by international community that Kosovo can't become an independent country legaly, US invaded Yugoslavia and used force to colonize it amd change the will of international community, without UN's approval. After US invasion peacekeepers were set in Kosovo but it didn't stop Albanians to comit ethnic cleansing and massacre of Serbs in Kosovo in 2004. In the last decade Serbia agreed to normalize relations with Kosovo, if Kosovo in return establish the "Serbian community of Kosovo". Serbia fulfilled all that was agreed in Brussels but Kosovo failed to establish the Serbian community in Kosovo. This year US/EU sent an ultimatum to Serbia demanding that Serbia accept Kosovo's full independence and in return Serbia will get "Serbian community of Kosovo" and if Serbia refuses, it will be under sanctions. Its beyond me why Serbia just don't declare war on Kosovo at this point.

[@The_Albanski]

Serbia doesn’t have money for war, nobody in Serbia wants to fight and die either. Also Serbia is surrounded by NATO countries: Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Croatia as well as 3k+ NATO troops stationed in Kosovo. Serbia would just get bombed again

[@Kalimdor199Menegroth]

@@The_Albanski Most of these countries would have no qualms if Serbia reasserts control over Kosovo in the future. And NATO troops are not permanent in Kosovo, just as they were not permanent in Afghanistan or Iraq. If an US administration deems that it is time to retreat from Kosovo, they will retreat. That would depend on what Serbia has to offer. Would they ditch Russia for the West in exchange for reincorporating Kosovo but allowing the military base there indefinitely? That would be a good bargain. The US is only interested in the end to protect its investment. How it protects it matters less.

[@milostomic8539]

@@The_Albanski Kosovo belongs to us, not to NATO.Nothing more, nothing less.

[@The_Albanski]

@@Kalimdor199Menegroth Iraq and Afghanistan ain’t europe therefore American troops there don’t provide security for the North Atlantic. Literally the whole point of NATO is for America to have troops all over Europe. The only way I see Americans leaving Kosovo is if NATO itself as a whole is disbanded. Also I think Serbia hates America too much to allow that

[@The_Albanski]

@@Kalimdor199Menegroth all those countries except Romania recognize Kosovo as independent

[@WilliamMallinson]

Frankly, the most logical solution, which would fit with UN law, is for Serbia to give up the Albanian bit of Kosovo, as it could, since the UN recognises Kosovo as part of Serbia (SC 1244). Serbia and the new Kosovo would then recognise the new border, which would stop near Mitrovica. The Serbian shrines in Kosovo could be protected by international agreement. Unfortunately, such a simple solution is unlikly, given atavism, hatred, greed, obsession with face-saving, Anglo-Saxon hatred of Russia and foreign interference.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks William. I agree. I have long argued that this is the most logical settlement and have publicly been on record saying as much. By the way, here is an interview on this proposal published today in Serbia. I am very critical of the way that Britain and German deliberately scuppered talks by Thaci and Vucic to talk about a territorial adjustment a few years ago. On Kosovo, I have in fact long been extremely critical of British policies. europeanwesternbalkans.com/2023/02/10/ewb-interview-ker-lindsay-serbia-kosovo-compromise-requires-either-partition-or-autonomy-for-kosovo-serbs/

[@neokorteks2009]

To a lot of us Serbs this seems like the fairest solution.

[@Nista357]

So all those migrants that settled UK in the past 10 years, or any other country, can just demand to be given territory that they populate and it should be perfectly fine for the country to renounce its territory in their favor? There is nothing good in that and it was never done in human history and I think it wouldn't work.

[@joeblack5393]

I agree. If at the same time the West supports dissolution of Bosnia and Croatia and redrawing of borders there and instant recognition of right to self determination of Crimea and republics of Donbas. Why should Albanians be the only nationality with recognized right to having absolute right to secession?

[@WilliamMallinson]

@@joeblack5393 Common sense.

[@drinimene9126]

That was an objective and well developed analysis. Very good job.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. I know that many nationalists on both sides won’t like it, but hopefully a settlement can be found.

[@YTinjustice]

There is tension in area that was illegaly ripped out from soverign country? *mild shock*

[@joeblack5393]

And to make matters even more hilarious 20 years later, they send 5 represenatives with a new 400 iq plan that no one thought of before, and guess what that plan is? "Serbia you do everything weve been wanting you to do since 1999. and in return you join EU in 2030. Maybe. Probably. Possibly."

[@alinoor6515]

Cover Eithiopia bse it has futures like yugoslavia. James bse ur biased and u don't listen the request

[@timor64]

This is such a great video on an extremely vexed topic.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much. It will be interesting to see how the EU-US proposal plays out. It is meeting a lot of resistance. But I’m not sure either Kosovo or Serbia can really afford to reject it.

[@croatianhistoryandidentity8261]

INTERNATIONAL BUSSINES: 1. United Nations Security Council resolution 1244, adopted on 10 June 1999, after recalling resolutions 1160 (1998), 1199 (1998), 1203 (1998) and 1239 (1999), authorised an international civil and military presence in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Resolution 1244 was adopted by 14 votes to none against. China abstained despite being critical of the NATO offensive, particularly the bombing of its embassy. 2. On 8 October 2008 (resolution 63/3), the General Assembly decided to ask the Court to render an advisory opinion on the following question : “Is the unilateral declaration of independence by the Provisional Institutions of Self-Government of Kosovo in accordance with international law ?” Court concluded that the adoption of the declaration of independence had not violated any applicable rule of international law. 3. How did, for example, USA got its independence recognition? Should we differentiate between de facto and explicit recognition of independence? BILATERAL BUSSINESS BETWEEN SERBIA AND KOSOVO: The Military Technical Agreement, also known as the Kumanovo Agreement, signed between the International Security Force (KFOR) and the Governments of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia and the Republic of Serbia, was an accord concluded on 9 June 1999 in Kumanovo, Macedonia. It resulted in the end of the Kosovo War, and established new basic relations between Yugoslavia and the Kosovo Force, which would act to replace units of the Yugoslav Army in Kosovo. Over 11 days from signing, the staged withdrawal from Kosovo by FRY forces, including the clearing of military assets (mines, booby traps) from communications lines, and the provision of information to NATO about remaining hazards. WHO WAS THE ONE THAT ACTED AGAINST YUGOSLAV CONSTITUTION? 1. Did Serbia (Milošević) violeted Yugoslav constitution or someone else (for example in Kosovo in 1981)? If one party violetes state constitution is this the begining of the end of that state?

[@Nista357]

No. Slobodan Milošević didn't violate Yugoslav constitution in 1981. but the Albanians on the other hand did.

[@rogyn8484]

Did Croatia (Tudjman) violated Yugoslav constitution? Just to remind you in Jajce you still having exposed original of document from AVNOJ agreement in which spot number 1. clearly mention what Croatia will be consisted of: "1.Croatian and Serbian people in Croatia are and should be totally equal!".

[@croatianhistoryandidentity8261]

@@Nista357 What were the conditions to use Yugoslav Peoples Army (JNA, official stated army)? Was it done according to the Yugoslave constitution?

[@croatianhistoryandidentity8261]

@@rogyn8484 Serbs didn't have any constitutional elements in the communist Croatia (1945 - 1990)

[@Nista357]

@@croatianhistoryandidentity8261 Of course it was according to constitution. As a matter of fact it was the leadership of the autonomous province of Kosovo that called the Yugoslav army to restore order in the province. Since it was constitutional obligation of the Yugoslav National Army to guard the countrie's sovereignty and territorial integrity there can not be any question that pacifying armed secessionist rebellion within the country was in any way illegal, even without the direct call of provincial government.

[@balazszentai3364]

This is a difficult matter. With the policy that the Western powers separated Kosovo from Serbia and supported unilateral independence, they set a dangerous precedent. This has already affected the future of Abkhazia, South Ossetia, Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, and certainly Iraqi Kurdistan and Northern Cyprus are also watching the developments. However, it can truly be said that Kosovo's independence is a reality that must be acknowledged. No way back. On the other hand, Russia, Turkey, Israel, and Morocco can also say the same in historical territorial disputes. Time really works for them. After a while, it is an unrealistic idea to return to the previous order and international legal norms, official maps are superseded by reality, new power relations. Perhaps the best solution for Serbia and Kosovo would be a land swap peace treaty. If Serbia would get back the Serb-inhabited northern Kosovo and get some supervision over the important Orthodox monasteries (like an embassy), then it would be easier for them to let go of Kosovo. For the Kosovar Albanians, the fact that they could unite with Presevo, the Albanian brothers there, and receive international recognition, UN membership, and begin EU accession negotiations could perhaps provide comfort and reassurance.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. This is rather close to my thinking. I agree. A land agreement still makes most sense as a way out. But it has been opposed by key outside actors. So, the situation seems to remain stuck.

[@jasminj5530]

That's not really true, is it? It's not like things very preachy before the intervention. We all remember have Serbia separated a huge part of Croatia for itself (RSK)? How Serbia carved out almost half of Bosnia? War crimes? Ethnic cleansing? Genocide? We do know that Serbia is governed by the same people? That they consider Albanians subhuman? Aleksandar Vucic is playing the West and doesn't really want Kosovo. What would he do with 2mil Albanians in 7mil Serbia? He'd like to trade Kosovo for "RS" and getting "ZSO" would be a cherry on top. Making life for Albanians in Kosovo impossible.

[@balazszentai3364]

@@jasminj5530 Yes, but the Kosovo Serbs also do not want to live in a state where the majority wants to oppress them and a Serb-hater, war criminal, gangster like Hashim Taci could be the leader of the state. There is this hatred, which is why I wrote that I think the best solution would be a territorial exchange settlement.

[@jasminj5530]

@@balazszentai3364It's a bit late in the game but nevermind. 1.9mil Albanians should live under Vucic but a few thousands Serbs can't live under Kurti?! "Teritorial exchange" didn't end well during the '90 and it wouldn't end well now. Serbs are not interested anyhow. Their goal is "RS" (Bosnia).

[@jasminj5530]

Western powers did separate Kosovo from Serbia and it wasn't a precedent. Serbia cut off a huge chunk of Croatia ("RSK"), Serbia cut of two chunks in Bosnia ("APZB" and "RS"). Did not pay reparations for either btw. Serbia also attacked Slovenia and eventually Kosovo. Loosing Kosovo is getting off easy for all the wars during the '90s.

[@MasaKoshi]

Great video!!!!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much Masa! I really appreciate it. I hope you are keeping well.

[@b0za]

@JamesKerLindsay Professor, I have a potentially interesting addition to the very nice and detailed video. I wouldn't have known it if it wasn't a very personal story. My mother was born in the hills of the mountain Kopaonik in 1956. At the time of her birth, it was a part of Serbia, with the district center being the town of Raska (still part of Serbia). In the late 60's Communist Party of Serbia made a decision that is very interesting. It changed internal borders of Serbia adding what is today Northern Kosovo. The reason for this decision is to artificially increase the number of Serb votes within AP Kosovo. Albanians were in the beggining against it, but later realized that eventual independence would grant them even greater territory. Even though as a Serb (who is very aware of the human right violations in 90s by the army) I am obviously not in favour of Irredentism (biased, even though Serbs are doing the same irredentic influence in the nearby independent countries), I was very shocked that self-determination right is not granted to the Serbs in the north. PS. Another very interesting thing about the Kosovo after the WW2 is that Stalin was for Kosovo in Albania, opposed to Kosovo reintegration to Serbia unlike western allies, which was one of the reasons of Tito-Stalin split. It is very droll now to see that the sides have shifted. My grandfather, and granduncles were literally hunting for Soviet spies that were carry arms to Albanians in a movement that will eventually become KLA. These are stories which my late uncles have told me, it would be very interesting to see what of it are facts. Not sure, but it seems that Tito wanted to use Kosovo to suck Albania up into Yugoslavia, which backfired. "Who would have thought" :')

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. You raise a really interesting and important point. As you say, the northern part of Kosovo was added to change the demographics, As it happens, I have always argued that northern Kosovo should be returned to Serbia as part of any deal, it seems like such an obvious answer, and a fair compromise. I have made this point many times.

[@hugodesrosiers-plaisance3156]

Your familiarity with the subject shows, Professor. Great explanations and great insights.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much Hugo! I really appreciate it, as always. I hope all is well with you.

[@annai6393]

@@JamesKerLindsay Ha. Familiarity? Western rubish and Othering.

[@PadraigDukeofFlorida]

Good video as always. Though I want to note that the failure to recognize Kurdistan has been the shortcoming of multiple countries long before TE Lawrence was lobbying for it and should be used as a cautionary tale rather than a precedent. Not wanting Bosnia's political hell seems to me like the only concern worth taking seriously. While it's important to hear and to note Serbian concerns, it's often just another glass bottle.

[@nikolajnikolic6130]

When will eu and usa recognize Crimea, donbas and other oblast's part of Russia? It was ok to illegaly steal part of Serbian territory and give it to albanians, but it's not right when Russia does that?

[@joeblack5393]

ding ding ding ding ding ding ding

[@davidellis2182]

Great explainer, thanks.

[@boombang857]

The truth is that the forceful dismemberment of a sovereign nation is a clear indication that the strong can act with impunity. The actions taken against Serbia will have far-reaching consequences for the world and serve as a warning for future generations. The situation in Ukraine is a prime example of the disastrous effects of such actions. It's interesting to note that the Serbs demonstrated great tolerance by granting Albanians in Kosovo and Metohija significant autonomy, including the use of their own language and the establishment of their own schools and governance. The Albanian pursuit of illegal secession from a country that has been a part of Serbian history for over a thousand years has led to the unfortunate and harsh consequences that we are witnessing today. EDIT: It's always a delight to hear your thoughts, James.

[@kth6736]

Giving autonomy to a region is always a bad decision. Look at scotland. The english though the scots will stop pestering them if they got a scottish parliament. Now the scots want full independence and english are scrambling to take back powers away from scottish parliament.

[@boombang857]

​@@kth6736 It's a perplexing situation, isn't it? When you support the independence of a group like the Albanians in Kosovo, you're essentially saying that if a country is tolerant and grants autonomy, they will be punished and their territorial integrity will be violated. There is little cultural overlap between Albanians and Serbs, making it difficult to understand why the land was given to the Albanians in the first place. Yet, when it comes to the Eastern part of Ukraine, where the majority of the population is Russian, this type of treatment is not extended. This creates a sense of inconsistency and raises questions about the motives behind these decisions. It's a complex and confusing issue, to be sure. What I'm trying to say is that the Kosovo precedent, if it goes unchallenged, will continue to generate instability not just in the Balkans but throughout the world. The international community must consider the broader implications of its actions and ensure that similar situations are handled in a fair and consistent manner. Otherwise, the lack of clarity and the arbitrary application of rules could lead to chaos and unrest in other parts of the world. The Kosovo precedent has far-reaching consequences and must be approached with caution and careful consideration.

[@kth6736]

@@boombang857 I fully agree. My own country had an autonomous region where the neighboring country managed to poison the mind on basis of religion that lead to seperatism, armed insurgency and then an ethnic cleansing. Every one from america to britain tried to benefit from the situation rather than resolve it and 5 wars were fought over it.

[@boombang857]

@@kth6736 It's certainly frustrating to see how things play out for those in power. It's a slap in the face when they tell you to let go of your cultural heritage, your history, and everything that your ancestors worked so hard to preserve. They say to embrace their idea of a "new world" or face consequences like sanctions and destruction. It's disheartening to see the disregard for the sacrifices made by previous generations and the erasure of a culture's rich history. It's a sad state of affairs, but unfortunately, that seems to be the reality for many communities around the world.

[@kth6736]

@@boombang857 agree. Its a cynical world. The serbs have my sympathy.

[@TheLocalLt]

Thank you for the video Dr. Ker Lindsay! Knowing your experience working with Balkan geopolitics, it’s particularly fascinating to hear your take on this. Do you give any credence to the recent rumor that Russia could try to pre-empt any Serbia-Kosovo deal by sending Serb ultra paramilitaries, which have been fighting in Ukraine since 2014, back to Serbia with the intent of provoking trouble with Kosovo? To me it sounds overly audacious to be true, you would certainly be able to give a more authoritative answer. Thanks as always professor!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. Yes, there have been rumours. I don’t take them seriously - or, rather, I don’t dismiss them, but I don’t worry too much about it. NATO still has forces on Kosovo. Any serious attack would be quickly repelled, with huge consequences for Serbia if it was shown that there was any government collusion. Belgrade knows this. I know that lots of people like to view Vucic as a nationalist. But he knows that Serbia’s future is ultimately with the West. Recently he appears to be trying to distance Serbia from Russia. It’s not the big break bang hope, but it does seem that there are changes. Picking a fight with NATO is the last thing he wants or needs.

[@TheLocalLt]

@@JamesKerLindsay right I guess I overlooked Serbia’s part in all this, I assumed the working theory was that Russia is desperate enough to do this with or without Belgrade’s consent. Though it seems from your comment that the risk is small, which is definitely good news for everyone.

[@mauricioprimus2610]

Chances of Serbia accepting Kosovo as not part of Serbia are equal to Ukraine accepting Crimea, Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporizhia, and Kherson are not part of Ukraine. The chance of Kosovo accepting Serbia's jurisdiction is equal to Crimea, Donets, Lugansk, Zaporizhia, and Kherson accepting Ukraine's jurisdiction. However, knowing Your position as supporter of Kosovo's independence, thank You for this unbiased presentation profesore. Greetings from Serbia.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. I understand the legal arguments. And I have been critical of Western positions. But as I explained there are good reasons why Kosovo should have been seen differently. I am just not sure why so many in Serbia just don’t want to discuss this honestly. Kosovo was effectively a republic. Surely, if Montenegro didn’t want to be United with Serbia despite its close aunties then it is unrealistic to expect that Kosovo had to tension tied to it.

[@masterblaster848]

@@JamesKerLindsay Maybe, Kosovo should be given autonomy of 1974 for Serbs. It was efectevly republic, but under Tito communist rule that Serbs dont remember as something nice.

[@mauricioprimus2610]

@JamesKerLindsay US shots down Chinese spy ballon because they saw it as an attack on their sovereignty and territorial integrity. US and NATO took 12% of our land and told us to forget about it? I won’t talk about how significant Kosovo is for Serbian people, i won’t talk about UN charter and resolution 1244. If we accept Kosovo as an independent country, this will be the end of Serbia. We have other regions and ethnic groups in Serbia. Who can stop them from going the same path as Albanians? So this question is to live or die for Serbia as a country.

[@alksmusic6188]

Kosovo won the war, Ukraine is still fighting.

[@Kalimdor199Menegroth]

@@alksmusic6188 NATO wont the war for them, to be honest. As soon as NATO retreats from Kosovo, Serbia will take over it.

[@izvedimeleoparde8577]

On spot. Good job 👍

[@LeftWingNationalist]

I'll never respect territorial integrity over self determination. When a nation refuses to allow a subregion the right to self determination vua it justifies violence on that nation. However if the international world says territorial integrity trumps self determination then the following is the result. Catalonia doesnt get a choice. Must stay apart of Spain Scotland doesnt get a choice. Must stay apart of UK Taiwan doesnt get a choice. Must stay apart of China (justifies Chinas future invasion of rebel held Taiwan) Palestine doesnt get a choice. Israel dictates terms Chechenya doesnt get a say. Must stay part of Russia. Donbas, Crimea doesnt get a say. Must stay part of Ukraine. Kosovo doesnt get a say. Must stay apart of Serbia.(Justifies Serbia recapture of Kosovo by force.)

[@bilic8094]

We can't always let demographics win laws have to exist.

[@LeftWingNationalist]

@@bilic8094 I dont care about what people historically owned land to justify a position. I just want current residents right now globally to have the Democratic right to choose and for international law to endorse self determination as global law backed by United Nations over territorial integrity. When a subregion anywhere wants to hold a referendum on independence. The united nations should send in peace keepers, and OSCE observers to oversee a credible referendum so no side tries funny business. Its literally the only fair thing to do for the local people who will live there after the vote takes place. I'm not looking for a Bleeding Kansas situation where Pro Slavery and Anti Slavery sides move then fight for it. Block new people from coming. Establish who is a resident and let them vote. Otherwise what's the point of arguing in favor of Democracy. Sometimes you lose in Democracy. That's reality.

[@lain1252]

Absolute self determination is also problematic. Using your logic the American civil war was wrong and the north should have respected the south's right to self determination and recognized the CSA.

[@bilic8094]

@@LeftWingNationalist who do you have winning the super bowl on Sunday kc or philly ?

[@LeftWingNationalist]

@@bilic8094 was leaning kc cuz of pat mahomes but i honestly havent watched philly at all. im more interested in the ufc card between islam and volk

[@DWEthiopia]

Can you do a video comparing Ethiopia with Yugoslavia? It seems like there are a lot of similarities. I'd be interested to learn what the differences are as well. It would give us a good idea of what Ethiopia's faith would be in the next few years.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Great suggestion! I’ve often thought that there are some really interesting similarities. I’ll have a think about how it might work.

[@DWEthiopia]

@@JamesKerLindsay Thanks for considering my suggestion!

[@The_Albanski]

Ethiopiss

[@bilic8094]

Ethiopia and Yugoslavia always had good relations back in the day.

[@Niksg9424]

Another banger by the professor. Must feel nice when a Balkan video is next, given that's your specialty and such

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. You would think. But I also know that I am about to get a whole lot of abuse! :-)

[@Niksg9424]

@@JamesKerLindsay Balkan af.

[@Wafflehouse69.69]

Self - declere😂😂😂, But put Nato base there😂😂😂 Basic hipocratcy

[@veljkopavlovic4958]

Interesting but remember that this will never happen, Kosovo is part of Serbia and will be always! We get bombed by NATO and our Kosovo was taken by the force!!! No way! We will never recognize Kosovo like Albanians state. Long live Serbia 🇷🇸🇷🇸🇷🇸🇷🇸

[@laki991srb]

Dude Kosovo was not conqered by Serbia in 1389, it was acctually defended of Ottoman invasion. For almost 6 centuries before Kosovo battle it was a part of Serbia.

[@dzonikg28]

Westerner and their lie.. They thing 10000 times repeated lie will became the truth

[@joeychestnut2437]

No it wasnt

[@Untrus]

Stay strong Serbia!!!❤ amazing analysis on the current situation in Serbia hopefully one day we can all move on from this and the whole Balkan can finally live in peace and move forward together the very truth is that all of our problems will be solved in the whole region once we all enter the EU, Schengen, and Euro economic Zone it will literally be like crossing states in the US borders won’t even matter anymore

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. I also hope that the region will one day be in the EU and borders will be open and cease to mean as much as they do now. Let’s hope. Reaching a final deal on Kosovo would go a long way towards helping that. But of course we also need to get Bosnia back on track. Another thorny issue I’ve looked at a lot.

[@milicastanar9654]

​@@JamesKerLindsayHello. Should we join parts of Bosnia and Hercegovina and parts of Kosovo and Metohija with Serbia and let go the rest of Kosmet to Abanians?

[@kavorkaa]

Dear James,thank you as always for your ever informative videos while im convalescent According to Noel Malcom in his book,A History of Kosovo,he postulates that the Ottoman empioroe never acknowledged the annexation of Kosovo by Serbia,hence being left in "limbo" as a one sided action

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. But I have to say one also needs to tread carefully with Malcolm. He has a rather selective view of things. :-) But it doesn’t really matter for the contemporary debate. Its incorporation by Serbia and then Yugoslavia had been internationally recognised. There are countless territories around the world that argue that they shouldn’t be part of the state they are in. But that’s where they are, and states really don’t like to question that. More to the point: get well soon!

[@naimkozi3767]

How does Malcolm have a selective view on things -please explain?

[@drudi1]

Another fun fact is that the Serbs never got a chance to seecede from Croatia and Bosnia even though they were oppressed because of the fears that thry would want independence. When the same thing happened on Kosovo, everyone seems to have forgotten what Serbs in other parts of exyu had to endure for ,,the stability of the Balkan,,. Our country endured the most unjustice out of all ex yu countries, being humiliated and demonized on the world stage

[@PP-pi1ej]

Why does one nation get to have two nation states? Albanians have their nation state do they not? In fact Albania is bordering Serbia via Kosovo. So we have one nation having 2 independent states. It's not Albanian colony. This bothers me more than anything. There are nations without nation state (ie Kurds as mentioned) and Albanians get to claim 2 countries. It doesn't seem right.

[@joeblack5393]

Why do they get to form a second state and Russians in Donbas and Crimea cannot?

[@joseywales148]

Don’t worry- it will be United sooner rather than later… remember East/West German Union… now you can relax, meditate and come to terms with what will happen soon

[@katerpese]

Why do South Slavs have 7 states in the Balkans but Albanians, who are native to these lands, only get a meagre one and half of very small territories?! Thats because the European Powers butchered the Albanians and their territories so many times in the past. Supporting Kosovo’s independence was the least they could do to amend past deeds.

[@joeblack5393]

@@katerpese Can you show us some historical monument, a church, a city, anything, that Albanian people have built/created in these territories that you call Albanian? Cause im pretty sure that you cant. I can show you Slavic churches, monuments and cities from the 7th century all the way to today. Also thats an idiotic question about 7 South Slavic states. We have 7 because we have 7 distinctive South Slavic nations with each one having their own national state (with exception of Bosnia which is a union of 2+1). Albanins living in Albania, Kosovo, Macedonia, Montenegro and Greece are all ethnic Albanians. Hence 1 state.

[@joseywales148]

@@katerpese Absolutely 👍🏻 💯 the truth- Europe has done so much evil to the Albanian People

[@alksmusic6188]

The worst it that a slovakian and a spanish are currently holding important seats in EU when it comes to Kosovo 🇽🇰 and this make things more complicated because they don't recognize Kosovo.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. I don’t think that really changes much. Equally, Serbia could argue that if there were citizens of two recognising countries in place that would be a problem. But they never gave said this when it happened. Ultimately, we have to accept that there is a wider international problem here that needs to be solved by both sides accepting the anomalous position that exists.

[@danielreiter1915]

Da wäre absolut sensationelle, wenn sich die beiden Parteien auf einen Frieden einigen könnten. Zusammen erreicht man einfach mehr. For peace and freedom.🌈

[@besg5725]

Lmao. Das einzige was ich mit dem serben mich einigen kann ist das krieg die lösung ist. Man kann nicht mit serben zusammen leben.

[@danielreiter1915]

@@besg5725 warum nicht? Hast Du es schon einmal versucht? Bei mir habe ich die Erfahrung gemacht, das ich Menschen schon oft falsch eingeschätzt habe. Ich dachte zum Beispiel mal. Krass der Typ, voll ein Sozi und asozial. Und dann kam ich im näher - weis spontan jetzt nicht mehr gerade wie - aber ich war verblüft. Vom Äusseren dachte ich mir, der muss stinken wie die Pest. Aber nein, der hate abgesehen von seiner abgefahrenen Kluft, ein sehr angenehmes Odeur. Und seine Stimme klang, weich. Er war aufgeschlossen und intellektuell auf der Höhe. Ich habe mich grundlegend getäuscht und tat Ihm nur schon mit meinem Vorurteil unrecht.

[@besg5725]

@@danielreiter1915 ok lol. Serben sind Ethnonationalisten. Ein zusammenleben mit serben, als Albaner, ist unmöglich. Das beste wäre falls Kosovo sich mit Albanien einigen würde. Die serbische Bevölkerung sollte entweder mit der Albanischen minderheit im Presheva getauscht werden oder neue grenzen gestezt werden, durch ethnische linien.

[@danielreiter1915]

@@besg5725 Ich habe Deine Antwort gelesen. Muss aber klar sagen, dass das nicht meinem Niveau entspricht. Wir haben hier auf der Welt genug Leid. Daher setze ich mich für Frieden und Freiheit ein. Trotzdem wünsche ich mir, das Du Deinen Weg findest und ein zufriedenes Leben hast.

[@besg5725]

@@danielreiter1915 du bist zu liberal fur diese welt lol. Du solltest Witcher 3 spielen. Man kann manchmal nicjt zusammenleben. Deshalb gibt es Scheidungen im einer Heirat.