Kosovo's February 2025 Parliamentary Elections: Vetëvendosje lead but coalition talks loom

On February 9, 2025, Kosovo held its highly anticipated parliamentary elections. Preliminary results reveal that the ruling Vetëvendosje! (Self-Determination Movement), led by Prime Minister Albin Kurti, secured around 41.99% of the vote. While this victory positions Vetëvendosje! as the front-runner, it still falls short of the 61 seats needed for an outright majority in Kosovo’s 120-member Assembly, setting the stage for crucial coalition negotiations.

The Democratic Party of Kosovo (PDK) followed with 22.68% of the vote, while the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK) earned 17.9%. The Alliance for Kosovo's Future (AAK) secured 7.56%. Voter turnout stood at 40.59%, a notable decline from previous elections.

Key issues during the campaign included stalled negotiations with Serbia, economic growth, and the need for improved public services. With tensions over Serbia remaining a top concern, the election outcome is expected to significantly impact Kosovo's future relations with its neighbors and may also influence the resumption of international aid, which has been suspended amid ongoing tensions with Kurti’s administration.

As Prime Minister Kurti embarks on the challenging task of forming a coalition government, the next few weeks will be crucial in determining Kosovo’s political future. The coalition talks will likely shape not only the country's internal policies but also its diplomatic stance with Serbia and other international partners.