The Serb List has called for the involvement of the QUINT countries – the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and France – to help find a compromise solution for the operation of the “Ibër Water Supply” enterprise.

This appeal comes as Kosovo authorities continue shutting down institutions operating under Serbia’s system in the north of the country.

On May 16, Kosovo authorities took control of the building of the National Employment Service in North Mitrovica. Previously, other institutions such as the city’s sports hall, museum, and the Institute for Culture, Youth and Sports were also shut down. These facilities operated under Serbian law and have been deemed parallel and illegal institutions by Kosovo authorities.

The head of the Serb List, Zlatan Ellek, stated on May 14 that his party has always supported a compromise solution, but emphasized that dialogue with Pristina is currently impossible, as Kosovo authorities have rejected any opportunity for talks. This marks one of the first times the Serb List has openly sought a solution regarding the closure of these institutions, which Kosovo has labeled illegal since early 2024.

In this context, the Serb List has urged the QUINT countries to mediate a solution that could enable the sustainable functioning of institutions in northern Kosovo. Following the shutdowns, this is the first time a Serbian political party has requested a compromise on this matter.

The Government of Kosovo has not provided any information on whether it is willing to resume dialogue regarding the operation of Serbian-run institutions in the country, leaving the door open to further tensions over this sensitive issue.