Integration of Serbian education and healthcare systems into the Kosovo legal framework, with a particular focus on the implications of the Law on Foreigners
The first Community Forum within this project cycle addressed the integration of Serbian education and healthcare systems into the Kosovo legal framework, with a particular focus on the implications of the Law on Foreigners. While these discussions often take place at the level of policy and institutions, their consequences are deeply felt in the everyday lives of individuals and communities.
As part of the project Moving from ‘Kosovo Serb Integration’ to(wards) a New Social Contract for a Truly Multiethnic Kosovo, the Community Forums are complemented by real-life stories that bring forward the human dimension of these processes. Through multimedia formats, these stories aim to deepen understanding of how legal and institutional changes affect communities on the ground, ensuring that lived experiences remain central to broader policy debates.
In this context, the KoSSev portal was engaged as a key media partner to produce a video podcast and accompanying article, contributing significantly to the visibility and quality of this storytelling component. Their professional approach and strong connection to local audiences have enabled the story to reach wider public attention while preserving the authenticity of the voices presented.
The story features Professor Senka Kostić, who reflects on the broader social and educational importance of the University of Pristina with temporary seat in Mitrovica for the local community.
Her perspective offers a direct insight into the potential consequences of ongoing and anticipated policy developments. As discussions around the integration of the education system advance, and as the Law on Foreigners begins to shape the legal status of professionals and institutions, concerns emerge regarding the sustainability and functioning of key public services. The University, as highlighted by Professor Kostić, is not only an educational institution—it is a cornerstone of the city’s social and economic life, supporting local livelihoods, shaping community identity, and ensuring that young people have access to education within their own environment.
She warns that any disruption to its functioning—whether through administrative, legal, or systemic changes—could have far-reaching effects. The potential requirement for staff and professionals to navigate new legal statuses, licensing procedures, or residency-related conditions under the Law on Foreigners may further complicate an already sensitive process of institutional integration. In this context, the risk is not only institutional uncertainty, but also the gradual erosion of opportunities for local youth and the weakening of the community’s social fabric.
These reflections closely mirror concerns raised during the Community Forum discussions, where participants emphasized the need for carefully managed, inclusive, and context-sensitive approaches to integration. By linking policy developments with personal experiences, stories such as this one contribute to a more grounded and comprehensive understanding of the challenges ahead.
🔗 The full story and video podcast are available here:
https://kossev.info/kostic-bez-univerziteta-mitrovica-bi-imala-ulice-bez-studenata-ne-samo-onih-sa-strane-nego-i-dece-sa-kosova/
Disclaimer:
“This podcast was produced within the project ‘Moving from ‘Serb Integration’ to(wards) a New Social Contract for a Truly Multiethnic Kosovo – Cycle II,’ supported by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and implemented by Center for Affirmative Social Action (CASA) and Space/s for Societal Change (Space/s). The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the positions of the Embassy or implementing organizations.”
