Kosovo declared its independence on February 17, 2008. On the occasion of the anniversary, Delfin Pllana, the Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo accredited to Budapest, gave an interview to Krisztián Csaplár-Degovics (Budapest, February 17, 2025).
Őexc. Delfin Pllana, a Koszovói Köztársaság Budapestre akkreditált nagykövete
His Exc. Ambassador Delfin Pllana is a seasoned diplomat and academic with extensive experience in international relations and public administration. He holds an MSc in International Relations from Corvinus University, Budapest (2007) and an Executive MBA in General Management from the University of Sheffield (2017). He also earned a BA in Political Science from the University of Prishtina and the University of Passau (2004) and is currently pursuing PhD studies in economic and commercial diplomacy at the University of Sheffield/SEERC. Additionally, he has served as an Adjunct Lecturer at UBT College and holds a CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership.
Since 2009, His Exc. Ambassador Pllana has been part of Kosovo’s diplomatic service. He was among the founding members of Kosovo’s first diplomatic mission in Hungary, serving as Deputy Head of Mission (2010–2014). He later held leadership roles at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora (MFAD), including Senior Official and Acting Director for International Organizations (2014–2016), Deputy Head of Mission in Sofia (2016–2019), and Director for Bilateral Relations & General Director at MFAD (2019–2021). He was appointed Chargé d’Affaires with the rank of Ambassador in Sofia (2021) and later served as Director of the Americas Department (2023). In March 2024, he was designated as Ambassador Plenipotentiary and Extraordinary of the Republic of Kosovo to Hungary.
Before his diplomatic career, he spent over a decade working with IGOs, NGOs, and the media sector, collaborating with organizations such as IOM, USAID, the Council of Europe, DFID, ICO, and the Kosovo Association of Professional Journalists.
Dear Mr. Ambasador Pllana, what path led to Kosovo’s proclamation of independence on 17 February 2008?
Viewed through historical lens, Kosovo has navigated distinct epochs fraught with existential threats, ranging from challenges to its administrative and constitutional autonomy to periods marked by local population upheavals and inter-ethnic tensions, culminating in the grave population extermination risks induced by war crimes atrocities and ethnic cleansing by Serbia targeting the predominantly Albanian population during the years 1998-1999. Following 1999, there were state-building efforts and initially, this occurred through the establishment of autonomous institutions by UNMIK, which held ultimate authority. Furthermore, Resolution 1244, which remained in effect, did not determine the final status but solely governed the administration of the post-war country necessitating comprehensive consolidation across all domains, including reconciliation. The process of statehood acquisition encompassed both the benefits inherent in this new development and the challenges associated with transitional power dynamics. Thus, state-building efforts needed to address two primary objectives: fostering democratic pluralism and institution-building, alongside the imperative to transcend the power framework outlined in Resolution 1244. On the other hand, a crucial component in shaping post-1999 national identity and political legitimacy, essential for crafting the requisite narrative surrounding the war and NATO intervention, was the affiliation with the resistance movement of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) and its ideological factions mirrored within specific political entities.
On February 17, 2008, the Parliament of Kosovo declared the country an independent and sovereign state, reflecting the will of its people and aligning with the Ahtisaari Plan, a UN-backed proposal for Kosovo’s political status. Kosovo’s independence stemmed from a UN-led initiative to determine its future. Martti Ahtisaari, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy, played a key role in mediating negotiations. Between 2005 and 2007, Kosovo met several prerequisites, including dialogue with Serbia and demonstrating commitment to the process. At the conclusion of negotiations, Ahtisaari recommended independence, with international supervision lasting until September 2012 to oversee the plan’s implementation.
In the afternoon of 17th of February, 2008, when the Parliament of Kosovo formally proclaimed independence, it called immediately for international recognition and support. The declaration sparked unrest in Belgrade, where Western embassies, including those of the United States and Croatia, were attacked. Meanwhile, leaders in Pristina reaffirmed Kosovo’s commitment to democracy, human rights, and European integration. They expressed gratitude for international support, recognized Kosovo’s unique historical circumstances, and pledged to build a multi-ethnic state grounded in the rule of law. Kosovo’s path to statehood was complex, marked by political, ethnic, and international challenges. Building a functional and stable state required the establishment of institutions, security frameworks, and management of ethnic relations. Despite these challenges, Kosovo remained committed to domestic stability, international recognition, and Euro-Atlantic integration.
Without a doubt, Kosovo's declaration of independence on February 17, 2008, is a key moment in the Balkans' recent history, symbolizing the culmination of Kosovar Albanians' protracted struggle for self-determination. Kosovo's independence illustrates the tension between two competing principles of sovereignty: the Westphalian sovereignty, which emphasizes the territorial integrity of states, and popular sovereignty, which prioritizes the self-determination rights of peoples. Kosovo’s independence can be seen also as a product of evolving norms in the international system, particularly those related to humanitarian intervention and the "responsibility to protect”. The NATO intervention in 1999, justified on humanitarian grounds, challenged traditional notions of sovereignty and underscored the growing acceptance of external involvement to protect vulnerable populations at the brink of extermination. This intervention reinforced the legitimacy of Kosovo's claim for independence by highlighting the failure of the Yugoslav federation—and later Serbia—to uphold the rights of ethnic Albanians. Apart from normative principles, maintaining stability in the Balkans which has been considered a security hotspot since the 1990-ies is a strategic interest of the Western powers led by the United States and key EU member states.
After independence, what were the main difficulties in organizing the new state?
The establishment of a parliamentary democracy after Kosovo’s declaration of independence was a central objective of our society. International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 2010 gave a verdict on the legality of Kosovo's declaration of independence according to which the declaration did not violate international law, as there is no prohibition against unilateral declarations of independence under international law or the UN Charter. The ICJ also found no breach of binding Security Council resolutions.
Kosovo’s state-building process reflects the interplay between domestic and international factors. Post-independence period focused on institution-building, security, and building of public and economic infrastructure, influenced by external governance and support of EU, which shaped Kosovo’s institutions to ensure stability and minority protections. The EU has already imposed conditional requirements to promote democratic reforms and Kosovo’s integration into global structures.
The process of building democratic institutions in Kosovo following its declaration of independence in 2008 has been a multifaceted and challenging endeavor, marked by complex interactions between international and domestic actors, significant ethnic divisions, and an overarching need for effective state-building. This journey involved both incremental progress and setbacks, shaped by several stages that span international oversight, domestic constitutional development, legal reforms, local governance restructuring, and public administration transformations.
A central aspect of Kosovo’s post-independence development was the construction of a robust and independent legal system that could support the principles of democracy and human rights. Kosovo’s efforts to build an independent judiciary were guided by the broader goal of aligning with European standards and meeting EU integration requirements.
Local governance too emerged as a central issue in Kosovo’s state-building process, with a focus on decentralization and the devolution of power to municipalities. Municipalities gained significant responsibilities over critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and policing. This transition was driven by the belief in local democracy and the need for closer citizen participation in decision-making processes. Local elections, held regularly since 2009, have helped foster political pluralism at the municipal level, allowing for broader democratic representation and enhancing political stability.
The establishment of a transparent, professional, and efficient public administration has constituted a central objective within Kosovo's state-building process. Establishment of a civil service system, designed to curtail political patronage and promote merit-based recruitment, marks a significant advancement in enhancing institutional legitimacy. Kosovo's pursuit of European Union integration has served as a key catalyst for these reforms, with alignment to EU standards concerning governance, public administration, and anti-corruption measures constituting an integral component of this process.
The European Union (EU), the United States, the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have been among the most significant contributors to Kosovo’s development. Their aid has played a crucial role in stabilizing Kosovo's economy by providing much-needed funding for sectors like energy, education, and healthcare. Additionally, foreign investments have modernized infrastructure, including road networks, energy systems, and telecommunications, which are essential for enhancing regional connectivity and promoting economic growth. Equally important has been the focus of international aid on institutional reforms aimed at strengthening governance, enhancing transparency, and improving the rule of law. These measures have been vital for fostering democracy and establishing an environment conducive to sustainable development and foreign investment. Through technical assistance, Kosovo has been guided in aligning its legal and regulatory frameworks with European standards, paving the way for deeper integration into global economic and political systems.
What did the proclamation of independence mean for Albanian nation-building?
The proclamation of Kosovo’s independence in 2008 was a crucial moment for Albanian nation-building, both within Kosovo and in the broader Albanian national consciousness. It symbolized the culmination of a long struggle for self-determination, reinforcing Kosovo Albanians' political identity and sovereignty. Kosovo’s independence was seen as the realization of a historical aspiration for self-rule, particularly after decades of political repression and the war in 1998-1999. It affirmed Kosovo Albanians' right to statehood, separate from Serbian governance, and established a framework for consolidating a national identity based on democratic governance and self-determination.
Kosovo’s independence reconfigured its relationship with Albania. While the two share historical, linguistic, and cultural ties, Kosovo’s independence did lead to ever closer economic, diplomatic, and cultural cooperation. It solidified a dual-state Albanian identity, with Albania as a sovereign nation and Kosovo as a newly independent state, both contributing to broader Albanian nation-building. For the Albanian nation, it strengthened a collective sense of political and cultural unity, despite the political fragmentation of Albanian-inhabited territories in the region (e.g., in North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia's Presevo Valley). Kosovo’s independence also led to greater engagement with international institutions, enhancing its role within the Albanian geopolitical landscape.
Kosovo’s independence reinforces and contributes to the preservation and development of Albanian cultural identity. The standardization of the Albanian language, history, and shared cultural initiatives—such as literature, media, and education—help strengthen a collective Albanian consciousness. The rise of Kosovar cultural figures in art, music, and literature further amplifies a unified Albanian cultural space. Further, Kosovo’s independence challenges traditional notions of Albanian nationhood, demonstrating that the Albanian identity can exist within multiple sovereign states. Kosovo’s statehood has reinforced a more pragmatic approach—building strong national identities within existing borders while fostering transnational cooperation among Albanians in Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia’s Presevo Valley
Kosovo’s economic interdependence with Albania fosters a more unified Albanian economic space. Trade agreements, infrastructure projects (such as the "Patriotic Highway" connecting Albania and Kosovo), and cross-border investments help integrate the two economies. A stronger Kosovar economy enhances overall Albanian economic stability, benefiting Albanians in the region. By all means, Kosovo’s independence has been a transformative factor in Albanian nation-building, reinforcing cultural unity, political identity, economic cooperation, and regional influence. While Kosovo strengthens Albanian identity and cohesion, it also underscores the evolving nature of Albanian national identity—one that embraces multiple states while fostering unity across borders.
How did you personally experience the moment and the first decades of independence, Mr. Ambassador?
On the historic day of Kosovo's declaration of independence, on 17th of February, 2008, I had the honor of being in Pristina, immersed in the profound celebrations that filled the city’s squares. At the time, I was working in international organizations that played a crucial role in the recovery and development of Kosovo and its society.
The emotions of that moment are indescribable. Such an event is a rare milestone in the history of a nation—a defining moment that occurs perhaps once in a lifetime, or even once in several generations. It was a long-overdue and well-deserved achievement, attained through immense sacrifice and centuries of suffering—marked by persecution, systematic oppression under the former Yugoslavia, the horrors of war, and the terror of the 1990s, when the Milosevic regime sought to erase an entire people. Reflecting on this journey, I firmly believe that those of us who witnessed and lived through these defining times bear a profound responsibility—to work tirelessly, with dedication and integrity, to ensure that the Republic of Kosovo assumes its rightful place in the community of sovereign states and the Western democratic family, where it has historically belonged.
Since 2009, I have had the honor and privilege of serving in the foreign service of the Republic of Kosovo, dedicating my career to representing and advancing my country’s interests both domestically and internationally. It is with immense pride and unwavering commitment that I serve the Republic of Kosovo, fully aware of the responsibility that comes with this role. For me, this is not merely a profession but a lifelong opportunity to contribute to strengthening Kosovo’s international standing, diplomatic presence, and strategic partnerships. The challenges that Kosovo has faced—particularly in the aftermath of 1999 and following the declaration of independence—have been immense. However, I am deeply convinced that, despite these challenges, the Republic of Kosovo has made extraordinary strides in all fields. Through determined state-building efforts, Kosovo has significantly advanced in democratic governance, economic development, rule of law, and international diplomacy. Each diplomatic engagement, recognition secured, and international agreement reached is a testament to the resilience and dedication of our institutions and people.
Looking ahead, I remain fully committed to work in furthering Kosovo’s Euro-Atlantic integration, strengthening diplomatic alliances, and fostering global recognition. The Republic of Kosovo has firmly established itself as a responsible and proactive member of the international community, and I am confident that through continued effort, we will further solidify our place among the world’s sovereign and democratic nations.
What challenges does Kosovo face today?
The Government of Kosovo has successfully completed a full mandate for the first time since 1999, delivering substantive achievements across multiple sectors. This marks a significant milestone in the country's democratic consolidation and institutional stability. On February 9, Kosovo once again demonstrated its commitment to democracy by holding free and fair elections, while Kosovar diplomatic missions facilitated early voting on February 8, enabling the Diaspora worldwide to actively participate in shaping the country's future. This historic opportunity underscores the strength of Kosovo’s democratic institutions and the deep connection between its people, both at home and abroad. As Kosovo looks ahead, there is great optimism that the new government will swiftly take office and continue advancing key national priorities. These include accelerating economic development, strengthening the Euro-Atlantic integration process, and intensifying diplomatic efforts to secure new recognitions and expand membership in international organizations.
Kosovo is making steady and measurable progress in democratic governance, as reflected in its continuous rise in international democracy indexes, including rule of law, ease of doing business, and transparency. These positive trends reaffirm Kosovo’s commitment to institutional reforms and good governance, paving the way for sustainable development and greater international credibility. In the face of serious security challenges, particularly following the terrorist attacks in September 2023 and November 2024, Kosovo has demonstrated firm resolve and resilience by successfully restoring law and order in the northern region. This decisive action highlights the state’s capability and determination to uphold peace, stability, and the rule of law across its territory.
Kosovo remains actively engaged in the EU-facilitated dialogue with Serbia, recognizing that the 2023 Brussels Agreement and the Ohrid Implementation Annex represent a clear pathway toward full normalization of relations. With commitment, dialogue, and international support, Kosovo aims to achieve mutual recognition, ensuring long-term regional stability and integration into the European and transatlantic community. With a clear vision, unwavering determination, and the collective efforts of its institutions and citizens, Kosovo is firmly on a path of progress, prosperity, and global recognition. The future holds immense potential, and Kosovo is ready to embrace it with confidence and ambition.
How are Hungarian-Kosovar relations today, where could they be improved and developed?
Hungary was among the first countries to recognize the independence of the Republic of Kosovo on March 19, 2008. Its diplomatic presence in Kosovo began on January 1, 2006, through a Liaison Office, which was later upgraded to an Embassy on May 15, 2008. Diplomatic relations between the two countries were formally established on June 27, 2008. Subsequently, the Embassy of Kosovo in Budapest commenced its official operations in January 2010. Hungary actively contributes to international security efforts in Kosovo through NATO. From November 2021 to October 10, 2022, Hungary assumed command of KFOR, demonstrating its strong commitment to regional stability. The number of Hungarian military personnel in KFOR is currently at 365, making it the third-largest contingent after the United States and Italy. Hungary also remains a staunch supporter of NATO membership for Western Balkan countries, including Kosovo.
Hungary is a vocal advocate for EU enlargement, firmly believing that integration has no alternative for the Western Balkans (BP6). Hungary has been a strong and consistent supporter of visa liberalization for Kosovo, emphasizing the importance of free movement for Kosovo's citizens within the European Union. Last year’s Hungarian EU Presidency achieved some notable successes, among which was enacting of the reform programs of Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia under the Reform and Growth Facility. This opened the door to a €6 billion assistance package for these countries, marking a significant achievement of the Hungarian EU Presidency.
The organization of the European Political Community (EPC) Summit on November 7 was a notable highlight of the Hungarian EU Presidency. During the summit in Budapest, the President of the Republic of Kosovo, Mrs. Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu, held a meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and other EU delegation leaders. The Hungarian Presidency also hosted numerous informal summits in Budapest, Szeged, Podgorica, and Brussels, with active participation from Western Balkans countries including the Republic of Kosovo. Senior representatives from the Republic of Kosovo demonstrated the country’s commitment to EU integration by engaging constructively in these forums as an aspiring EU member. The parliamentary dimension of the Presidency was equally significant. Members of Parliament from the Republic of Kosovo participated in four inter-parliamentary conferences, alongside representatives from the European Parliament and other EU candidate countries. The Hungarian Parliament welcomed the contributions of Kosovo’s MPs, highlighting their active involvement in plenary sessions. Despite these efforts, disappointment remains regarding the lack of progress in fully removing unjust EU measures and the absence of a formal questionnaire for Kosovo’s candidate status. The EU’s reluctance to decouple Kosovo’s integration process from progress in its dialogue with Serbia has fostered frustration within Kosovar society, which overwhelmingly supports EU membership—more than any other aspiring country. While the political climate and timing may not have positioned Hungary as the optimal mediator for advancing these goals, efforts made by Hungarian Minister of EU Affairs János Bóka to support the Western Balkans, including the Republic of Kosovo, were appreciated. His attempts to achieve meaningful results during the Presidency reflect a positive step, albeit insufficient in addressing the broader aspirations and needs of the Republic of Kosovo.
On the other hand, the bilateral legal framework between Hungary and Kosovo is well-established, covering a wide range of sectors. There is significant potential to further enhance economic cooperation, particularly in the fields of ICT and digitalization, water management, pharmaceuticals, food processing, agriculture and the green agenda.
Hungary provides scholarship opportunities for Kosovar students through the Stipendium Hungaricum program, in which Kosovo has participated since 2015. Initially, Kosovo was allocated 50 scholarships per year, but since 2020, this number has increased to 75 scholarships annually. These scholarships cover studies at all academic levels, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. programs in Hungarian universities. Currently, approximately 300 Kosovar students are studying or have completed their studies in Hungary under this program.
Kosovo’s presence in Hungary extends beyond the student community, with the Kosovar diaspora making a significant economic and cultural impact. One of the most notable contributions is in the bakery industry, where Kosovar entrepreneurs own or manage approximately 1,000 bakeries across Hungary, a sector that has flourished over the past two decades.These two communities—students and entrepreneurs—serve as vital bridges between Kosovo and Hungary, strengthening diplomatic and economic ties.
A frequently discussed topic in bilateral meetings I have conducted has been the re-establishment of a direct flight between Pristina and Budapest. In August 2024, I held discussions with Wizz Air CEO József Váradi, who confirmed the airline’s interest in resuming the Pristina-Budapest-Pristina route. Currently, many Kosovar travelers rely on Budapest-Skopje or Budapest-Tirana flights, while others opt for bus travel via Serbia. The reintroduction of this direct air route would significantly boost travel, tourism, and economic exchanges between Kosovo and Hungary. It would also provide a strategic connection for Kosovo’s diaspora, students, and business community, while fostering Hungarian tourism in Kosovo and the broader Albanian-speaking regions. Beyond economic benefits, this would also be a strong symbol of deepening bilateral cooperation, fostering political, economic, cultural, and scientific ties.
A significant achievement in cultural diplomacy recently was the joint concert of the Prizren Wind Orchestra and the ELTE University Orchestra on December 3 in Budapest. This event, organized in full cooperation with Hungary’s oldest and most prestigious university (ELTE), was supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kosovo and the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports (MKRS). The audience of approximately 200 attendees, including officials, diplomats, students, and members of the Kosovar community, was deeply impressed by the performances.
Hungary and Kosovo have initiated city twinning projects to enhance people-to-people ties and local-level cooperation. The first city twinning agreement was signed on February 17, 2023, between Peja (Kosovo) and Eger (Hungary). Discussions are underway for additional twinning projects and partnership initiatives between other cities in Kosovo and Hungary.
