Kosovo Facts

Kosovo, land in the Balkan Peninsula; 10,887 km², 1.8 million residents (2019).In 2008, Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia. Since then, 106 states have recognized Kosovo as an independent state. Serbia has not recognized the state of Kosovo but sees the area as a UN-controlled part of Serbia. Sweden acknowledged Kosovo in 2008.

The capital of Kosovo is Pristina (205 100 residents, 2012).

Country facts

• Republika e Kosovës (Albanian)
  Republika Kosovo (Serbian) /
  Republic of Kosovo
• Country abbreviation: XK (temporary country code)
• Area: 10 900 km²
• Population (2019): 1.8 million
• Capital: Pristina
• Main languages: Albanian, Serbian
• State: Republic
• Head of State: Hashim Thaçi (President)
• Head of Government: Albin Kurti
• Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 4,281
• GNI per capita (2018): US $ 4,230
• Currency unit: euro
• Currency code: EUR
• Country number (telephony): 383
• Time difference compared to Sweden: 0
• National Day: February 17 (Independence Day, 2008)

Nature

• Land use: forest (40%), agricultural land (53%), other (7%)
• Highest mountain: averavica (2,656 m asl)

Population

• Population density (2019): 165 residents per km²
• Natural population growth (2019): 0.8%; birthrate 13 ‰, death count 5 ‰
• Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (25%), 15-64 (67%), 65- (8%)
• Life expectancy (2019): men 74 years, women 79 years
• Infant mortality (2019): 11 per 1,000 live births
• Population forecast (2050): 2 million residents
• HDI: no data available
• Urbanization rate (2019): 38%
• Most populous cities (2012): Pristina (205 100 residents), Prizren 181 800), Gjilan (91 400)

Business

• Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (12%), industry (18%), service (70%)
• Exports (2017): US $ 428 million
• Main export products: metals and minerals, leather goods
• Main exporting countries: Albania, India, Northern Macedonia
• Imports (2017): US $ 3,223 million
• Main import products: food, fossil fuel, timber
• Main importing countries: Germany, Serbia, Turkey
• Railway network (2015): 330 km

Kosovo National Flag

Geography

Location and Borders

Kosovo is a landlocked country located in Southeast Europe, in the central part of the Balkan Peninsula. It shares borders with Serbia to the north and east, Albania to the south, and North Macedonia to the southeast. Kosovo’s western border is adjacent to Montenegro. The country is small, covering an area of approximately 10,887 square kilometers (4,203 square miles), making it one of the smallest countries in Europe. Its position at the crossroads of different cultures and civilizations in the Balkans has made Kosovo a strategically significant region throughout history.

Kosovo is divided into several regions, including the central Kosovo basin, which is home to the capital city, Pristina, and the mountainous areas that dominate much of the country’s terrain. The country’s mountainous regions, particularly in the north and east, are rugged and sparsely populated, while the central and southern parts of the country are more suitable for agriculture and settlement.

Physical Features

The geography of Kosovo is characterized by mountains, valleys, and rivers. The country is primarily mountainous, with the Sharr Mountains in the south and the Accursed Mountains to the west. These ranges create natural borders with Albania and Montenegro, respectively. Kosovo’s highest peak is the Gjeravica, which reaches 2,656 meters (8,714 feet) above sea level, located in the Sharr Mountains.

In addition to its mountainous terrain, Kosovo is also home to several rivers, with the Morava, Ibar, and Drin rivers being the most notable. The Ibar River flows north to south through the country, providing an essential water source for irrigation and transportation. Kosovo’s rivers and valleys, such as the Kosovo Basin, are fertile areas where agriculture is practiced, primarily in the central and southern parts of the country. These valleys provide the necessary resources for the cultivation of crops such as wheat, corn, and vegetables.

Kosovo’s natural landscape also includes forests and woodlands, particularly in the mountain regions. The forests provide timber and support local industries. The country is also home to various wildlife species, including bears, wolves, and wild boars, which thrive in the natural habitats of the mountains and forests.

Climate

Kosovo has a continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, particularly in the mountainous regions. Snowfall is common, and temperatures can fall to -10°C (14°F) or lower in the colder months of December through February. The winter weather is influenced by the mountainous terrain, which can lead to significant variations in temperature and weather patterns across the country.

Summers in Kosovo are warm and dry, with average temperatures reaching around 25°C (77°F), although temperatures can occasionally rise above 30°C (86°F) during heatwaves. The spring and autumn months bring moderate temperatures, but rainfall can be frequent in these seasons, particularly in the spring. The overall climate of Kosovo is influenced by its location on the Balkan Peninsula, with Mediterranean and continental air masses interacting over the region.

The climate has a significant impact on the country’s agriculture and biodiversity. The fertile valleys and river basins benefit from the warm summer temperatures, while the mountainous regions are subject to harsher winter conditions, which can limit agricultural activity.

Natural Resources

Kosovo is rich in mineral resources, particularly in coal, lignite, and other minerals such as lead, zinc, and chrome. The country has one of the largest reserves of lignite in Europe, which forms the basis of its energy sector. Kosovo’s economy relies heavily on coal-fired power plants, with lignite being used to produce electricity. The extraction of coal is a key industry, though environmental concerns have been raised about the sustainability and environmental impact of this sector.

In addition to minerals, Kosovo has significant agricultural potential. The fertile land in the Kosovo Basin is well-suited for the cultivation of crops such as wheat, corn, tobacco, and fruits. Livestock farming, particularly cattle and sheep, is also an important part of the agricultural sector. However, Kosovo’s reliance on traditional farming practices and limited access to modern technology has constrained the growth of its agricultural sector.

Kosovo’s forests provide timber and wood products, though deforestation and illegal logging remain concerns. The country has been working to improve its environmental protections, but challenges related to land degradation and waste management persist.

People

Population and Ethnic Composition

Kosovo has a population of approximately 1.8 million people, making it one of the smaller countries in Europe in terms of population size. The population is predominantly ethnic Albanian, making up about 90% of the total population. The remaining population includes smaller ethnic minorities, with the largest groups being Serbs, Bosniaks, Gorani, and others. The Serb population is primarily concentrated in the northern part of Kosovo and in enclaves throughout the country.

The country’s demographic structure reflects the ethnic tensions and conflicts that have characterized Kosovo’s history, particularly in the 1990s. The majority of Kosovo Albanians are ethnic Albanians, while the Serb population, which once formed a significant part of the country’s population, has decreased due to migration and political tensions following the Kosovo War of the late 1990s.

Kosovo has a relatively young population, with a median age of around 30 years. This youthful demographic poses both opportunities and challenges for the country, as the government seeks to provide education, employment, and services for a growing population. Kosovo has experienced significant emigration, with many young people seeking opportunities abroad, particularly in Western Europe, contributing to a brain drain in the country.

Language

The official languages of Kosovo are Albanian and Serbian, reflecting the ethnic makeup of the country. Albanian is the most widely spoken language, particularly in the southern and central regions, while Serbian is primarily spoken by the Serb minority in the northern regions and some enclaves. In addition to Albanian and Serbian, other languages spoken by minorities include Bosnian, Turkish, and Romani.

Albanian, which is part of the Indo-European language family, has several dialects, with the Gheg dialect being the most widely spoken in Kosovo. Serbian, a South Slavic language, uses both the Cyrillic and Latin alphabets, though the Latin alphabet is more commonly used in Kosovo, particularly in the Albanian-speaking regions.

Although Kosovo is officially bilingual, language barriers and tensions between different ethnic groups can sometimes create challenges for communication and integration. The government has made efforts to ensure that all ethnic groups can use their languages in official contexts, including the provision of bilingual services and education in minority languages.

Religion

The majority of the population in Kosovo is Muslim, with the vast majority adhering to Islam in its Sunni form. The presence of Islam in Kosovo dates back to the Ottoman period, which lasted from the 15th century until the early 20th century. Islam plays a significant role in the culture and traditions of Kosovo Albanians, though the practice of religion is often less formal than in other parts of the Islamic world. Many people in Kosovo identify as culturally Muslim but may not adhere strictly to religious practices.

The country also has a significant Serbian Orthodox Christian minority, particularly in the northern regions and in certain enclaves throughout Kosovo. The Serbian Orthodox Church has historical and cultural significance in Kosovo, with several important monasteries and churches located in the country. The most notable of these is the Dečani Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in western Kosovo.

In addition to Islam and Serbian Orthodoxy, there are small communities of Catholics, primarily among the Bosniak minority, and some Protestant Christians. Religious identity in Kosovo is often intertwined with ethnicity, with Albanians predominantly identifying as Muslim and Serbs as Orthodox Christians. However, there is also a tradition of religious tolerance and coexistence, despite the history of ethnic and religious tensions in the region.

Social Structure

Kosovo’s social structure is influenced by its ethnic and cultural diversity, with family and community playing a central role in daily life. Traditional family structures are important, and extended families often live in close proximity to each other. Patriarchal values are common, especially in rural areas, though urbanization and modernization have led to changes in family dynamics.

The social structure is also shaped by the legacy of the Kosovo War and the political and economic challenges faced by the country. Many ethnic Albanians in Kosovo maintain a strong sense of national identity, which is reflected in their pride in the country’s independence. For the Serb community, the situation is more complicated, as many still identify with Serbia and consider Kosovo a part of their historical homeland.

In urban areas like Pristina, social structures are more fluid, with young people seeking education, employment, and cultural exchange opportunities. The social and economic transition following the war has created challenges in terms of employment, housing, and access to services, but Kosovo has made strides in rebuilding its social infrastructure.

Economy

Key Industries

Kosovo’s economy is in the process of recovery and development following the Kosovo War, which left significant destruction in its wake. The country is primarily reliant on services, agriculture, and mining. Agriculture has historically been a key part of the economy, with Kosovo’s fertile valleys providing the resources needed for the cultivation of crops like wheat, corn, tobacco, and vegetables. Livestock farming is also important, particularly in rural areas.

In recent years, the services sector, particularly retail, transportation, and telecommunications, has seen rapid growth. Kosovo’s economy is largely informal, with a significant portion of economic activity taking place in small businesses and through remittances sent from the diaspora. Kosovo’s young, educated population has driven the growth of the services sector, especially in areas like construction, hospitality, and information technology.

Mining is another important industry in Kosovo, particularly the extraction of lignite coal, lead, zinc, and other minerals. Kosovo’s coal industry supplies energy to the country, with large-scale lignite mining serving as the primary source of electricity. The country also has potential for renewable energy development, particularly in solar and wind power.

Agriculture and Livestock

Agriculture plays a significant role in Kosovo’s economy, especially in rural areas. The fertile Kosovo Basin and other river valleys provide ideal conditions for the cultivation of grains, fruits, vegetables, and tobacco. Farmers also raise cattle, sheep, and goats, and Kosovo has a history of livestock farming that continues to play a role in its rural economy.

Despite Kosovo’s agricultural potential, the sector faces significant challenges, including limited access to modern farming technology, inadequate irrigation infrastructure, and low productivity. The agricultural industry is largely dominated by smallholder farmers, with many relying on traditional farming methods. However, the government has implemented policies to modernize the agricultural sector, improve food security, and enhance the export potential of agricultural products.

Economic Challenges

Kosovo’s economy faces several challenges, particularly in terms of high unemployment, especially among youth, and limited access to financing for businesses. The informal economy is large, and many people work in small-scale, unregistered enterprises. While the services and agricultural sectors show potential, Kosovo is still dependent on foreign aid and remittances, and the country struggles with poverty, low wages, and income inequality.

The ongoing political situation, including the lack of full international recognition and the tensions with Serbia, continues to hinder Kosovo’s economic development. This issue affects the country’s ability to access international financial institutions and markets, limiting foreign direct investment and economic opportunities.

Trade and Investment

Kosovo is a member of several regional organizations, including the Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA) and the European Union’s Stabilization and Association Process (SAP). The country has also signed trade agreements with various countries, including Albania, Turkey, and Croatia. However, Kosovo’s limited recognition as an independent state restricts its ability to join international organizations such as the United Nations and the World Trade Organization.

Foreign investment remains limited, but the government has been working to attract investors, particularly in infrastructure, energy, and tourism. The construction industry is growing, especially in Pristina and other urban areas, and the country’s strategic location in Southeast Europe makes it an important regional trade hub. However, Kosovo still faces challenges in terms of developing its infrastructure, improving the business climate, and reducing corruption.

Government

Political System

Kosovo is a parliamentary republic with a multi-party system. The president, who serves as the head of state, is elected by the people for a five-year term. The president has a largely ceremonial role, with real executive power resting in the hands of the prime minister and the cabinet. The prime minister is the head of government and is responsible for the day-to-day running of the country, including managing foreign policy, national security, and economic development.

The National Assembly of Kosovo is a unicameral legislature with 120 members, elected for a four-year term. The assembly is responsible for passing laws, approving the budget, and overseeing the work of the government. The electoral system in Kosovo is a mixed-member proportional representation system, which allows for a balance between larger and smaller political parties.

Legal System

Kosovo’s legal system is based on civil law, influenced by the legal traditions of Europe, particularly those of Germany and France. The country’s legal framework was established after the 1999 NATO intervention and subsequent UN administration, and it has evolved with the country’s independence in 2008. Kosovo’s legal system includes both civil and criminal law, and the judiciary is independent of the executive and legislative branches.

The Kosovo Constitutional Court is the highest legal authority, and it is tasked with interpreting the Constitution and ensuring that laws and government actions align with the country’s legal framework. Kosovo’s legal system has undergone significant reforms since independence, though challenges remain, particularly in terms of judicial capacity, corruption, and the protection of human rights.

Foreign Policy

Kosovo’s foreign policy has been shaped by its unique status as a partially recognized state. While it declared independence from Serbia in 2008 and has been recognized by over 100 countries, Serbia and several other nations, including Russia and China, continue to deny Kosovo’s sovereignty. Kosovo has sought to build diplomatic relations with as many countries as possible, and it is a member of several international organizations, such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The country has a strategic interest in joining the European Union and NATO, both of which it views as crucial for its long-term stability and economic development. Kosovo’s foreign policy is focused on gaining further recognition, improving relations with its neighbors, particularly Serbia, and seeking greater integration into international bodies and markets.