Following Kosovo's February 17 declaration of independence, world opinion has been divided over the decision of whether to recognize the self-proclaimed 'newborn nation', or declare its existence incompatible with international law. Countries such as the U.S. and Britain have actively sought to achieve the international recognition of Kosovo, while Serbia and its allies still consider the region Serbian territory. Kosovo remains in a state of tension - and conflict is always a possibility.

 

It is possible to see the merits behind both points of view. Kosovo is considered by many Serbians to be a historically, culturally, and religiously important area belonging to their people. However, a large proportion of ethnic Albanians, making up around 90% of Kosovo’s population, have sought for years an independence from Serbia. This desire for freedom is natural, considering the historically strained and, at times, excessively violent relationship between the two ethnic groups.

So far, the various judgments offered by the international community have been largely predictable; the interventionist approaches of the U.S., Britain, and their European allies have been evident; nations needing to tread delicately in political terms are reluctant to commit themselves; and Serbia, Russia et al are committed to making the newly-established state of Kosovo a political failure.

New Zealand's decision, however, is a unique one. Subsequent to Kosovo’s declaration of independence, Prime Minister Helen Clark made the following statement: "It's never been the New Zealand Government’s position to recognize in such circumstances. Over time the way in which we deal with those who govern in [Kosovo] will, I suppose, imply whether there is recognition, but we are not intending to make a formal statement."

It is important to understand that historically, New Zealand has often considered itself an international mediator, a neutral middle player that assists to resolve disputes. New Zealand peacekeepers have served in the Sinai Desert, East Timor, and the Solomon Islands. They have been involved in military observation in Bosnia from 1992-2004, humanitarian action in Somalia, and military liaison in Kosovo from 1999 to present. New Zealand is one of the major countries to question the U.S. led invasion of Iraq in 2003, however it did contribute personnel to assist in the reconstruction efforts and provided humanitarian aid.

Formerly the New Zealand Minister of Foreign Affairs, Don McKinnon has served as Secretary-General of the Commonwealth from 1999-2008. He has been involved in mediating such issues as the Robert Mugabe regime in Zimbabwe, and an attempted nationalist coup in Fiji. Mike Moore, a former New Zealand Prime Minister, was the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) from 1999-2002. During his term, Moore supervised the accession of China, Albania, Croatia, and other countries into the WTO, bringing the majority of the world within the global trading system. He particularly emphasized the importance of helping poor countries participate in the WTO

The government of New Zealand seems to have lost its way concerning its decision to "neither recognize nor not recognize [Kosovo]." It is probable that increased global recognition of Kosovo would result in higher chances of European Union (EU) entry. EU entry would free trade and investment into Kosovo, giving potential for rapid growth. Also, the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) of the EU has the objectives of increasing agricultural production in member nations, providing certainty in food supplies, ensuring a high quality of life for farmers and guaranteeing reasonable prices for consumers. Kosovo, with around 40% unemployment, needs the economic boost that membership in the EU would provide. An economically flourishing nation would, in turn, generate further political and social stability. New Zealand seems to believe that a neutral stance in Kosovo requires a policy of detachment – in other words, leaving Kosovars to sort their own problems out.

New Zealand's recognition would increase chances of EU membership, which is vital for the improvement of Kosovo's economy. It is also irrational to believe that the 90% ethnic Albanian population in Kosovo could live peacefully under Serbian rule. New Zealand must continue its role of promoting ethnic harmony and recognize Kosovo; for this is the only road to establish lasting peace in the region.