The panel discussion, „25 Years of German Engagement in Kosovo - Past, Present, Future,“ delves into the rich, steadfast, and multifaceted relationship between Germany and Kosovo. While this connection predates the 1990s, gaining early significance during the Gastarbeiter era, it took a decisive turn with the escalating crisis in Kosovo during the 1990s. As repression from Belgrade intensified, many Kosovars, including political dissidents who had been seeking refuge since the 1980s, fled to Germany, deepening bilateral ties and laying the cornerstone for Kosovo’s largest diaspora worldwide.

Germany’s role during the Kosovo War marked a pivotal moment in this relationship. The decision to participate in NATO’s Operation Allied Force in 1999 and later contribute to KFOR represented a historic shift for Germany, being the country's first robust military deployment since World War II. This decision sparked a massive debate within the Green Party, rooted in pacifism, as well as within the federal government under Chancellor Gerhard Schröder and Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer. Despite these internal debates, Germany’s participation in the operation became a major milestone in its foreign and security policy, paving the way for a long-term commitment to Kosovo’s security.

Over the past 25 years, Germany has remained a key player in Kosovo’s reconstruction, investing over €1 billion through various initiatives, particularly via GIZ, and maintaining a Bundeswehr presence that continues to safeguard stability. Germany remains a steadfast supporter of Kosovo‘s path of Euro-Atlantic integration and has initiated the Berlin Process as an additional tool that provides high level political support, fosters regional cooperation and ultimately prepares the Western Balkan countries for EU membership.

The panel will reflect on the broad spectrum of German-Kosovar relations, including Germany’s security engagement and the landmark discussions that shaped this involvement. The discussion will also explore the future trajectory of this partnership amidst current global and European challenges.