Kosovo's 'Groundhog Day' politics: three elections in 16 months yield no government

Kosovo has held its third election in 16 months, yet still has no functioning government. The latest vote, held this week, produced a result similar to the two previous rounds. Incumbent Prime Minister Albin Kurti's party secured 43% of the vote, a clear victory but insufficient to govern without a coalition partner.

The country also lacks a president. Vjosa Osmani, who served as president from 2021 until this April, was unable to secure a second term, reportedly due to a fallout with the prime minister. This political deadlock presents another setback for EU and NATO efforts in the region.