Parliamentary elections held in Kosovo to resolve prolonged political crisis
Kosovo is holding parliamentary elections on June 7, 2026, marking the third such event in 16 months. Voters are electing 120 members of parliament, with 20 seats reserved for ethnic minorities, including 10 for the Serbian community. The 2,092,174 eligible voters are casting ballots to resolve a political deadlock that led to the dissolution of the previous parliament after the failure to elect a President. Key contenders include Albin Kurti's Self-Determination (VV), the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK) led by Vjosa Osmani, the Democratic Party of Kosovo (PDK) associated with Hashim Thaci, and the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo (AAK) led by Ramush Haradinaj. The political crisis has significantly impacted the economy, contributing to a 7.5% inflation rate as of April 2026, a lack of foreign investment, and an inability to access European funds. By 1 p.m., the Central Election Commission reported a 15.1% voter turnout. These elections are seen as crucial for restoring stability and continuing the dialogue for the normalization of relations in the region.