international recognition of Kosovo

The international recognition of Kosovo refers to whether countries officially acknowledge Kosovo as an independent nation. Kosovo unilaterally declared independence from Serbia in 2008. Over 100 countries and organizations, including the U.S. and most of the EU, recognize Kosovo as a sovereign state. However, some countries, notably Russia and Serbia, do not recognize its independence, viewing it as a part of Serbia. This divided recognition impacts Kosovo’s ability to join international institutions and influences its diplomatic status worldwide. The recognition process reflects political, legal, and regional considerations, making Kosovo’s international status complex and contested.