The European Union state-building in Kosovo

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This research provides the first comprehensive overview of EU conflict management in Kosovo, focusing on the European Union Rule of Law Mission (EULEX) since its inception. It compares EULEX's actions and shortcomings with those of its predecessor, the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK). The study offers insights into the challenges faced by third-party interventions in post-conflict scenarios like Kosovo, drawing on perspectives from key figures involved in peace and state-building efforts. It highlights that the limitations of such interventions are not solely contextual but are also influenced by the external actors involved, due to institutional and organizational factors. The research argues that EULEX's structure and approach have hindered its ability to break away from the inactivities of its predecessor, raising questions about its effectiveness and added value in the region. EULEX has struggled to foster local ownership in the judicial sector and to transfer its expertise across Kosovo. These findings prompt a reevaluation of the EU's approach to rule of law and multi-ethnicity in similar contexts. This contribution aims to enrich ongoing discussions on state-building, using EULEX as a case study while offering valuable recommendations for academics, EU experts, and practitioners.