Dutch institute predicts visa liberalisation at the end of 2022

The Netherlands' position about visa liberalisation for Kosovo is changing and on the basis of Dutch think tank Clingendael's projections, Kosovo can benefit the decision on visa liberalisation by the end of 2022.

In a published analysis entitled “Dutch position for the EU visa liberalisation process for Kosovo. Light at the end of the tunnel? ”, advises Kosovo to continue reforms in the area of rule of law, governance and fighting organised crime and corruption, as well as to continue implementing and reporting on key criteria for visa liberalisation.

“Kosovo remains the last country in the Western Balkans that does not yet have EU visa liberalisation, which would allow its citizens to travel freely to the EU for 90 days”, the institute's score said.

According to the institute, the Netherlands' Narrativa is gradually changing among policymakers, politicians and civil society representatives.

“Visa liberalisation could come about the end of 2022”, says the analysis.

The institute advises the Netherlands to continue to be critical of reforms in the area of rule of law and criteria for visa liberalisation in Kosovo, as well as their long-term stability.