IRI Kosovo Poll Shows Desire to Join EU and NATO, Strong Support for Democratic Governance, Tensions with Serbia
Pristina, Kosovo – A nationwide poll in Kosovo by the International Republican Institute’s (IRI) Center for Insights in Survey Research shows a desire to join the European Union (EU) and NATO, strong support for democratic governance, and concerns over increasing tensions with Serbia.
When asked about the European Union (EU), 92% of Kosovo citizens would vote to join the EU if a referendum were held today. Additionally, 94% would vote to join NATO.
“The people of Kosovo believe that economic progress and national security come with closer ties to the West,” said Paul McCarthy, Director of Europe for IRI. “Membership in both the EU and NATO will help achieve those goals.”
The poll also found strong support for democratic governance. Eighty-five percent of adults believe democracy is the best possible form of government for Kosovo. The survey further showed that 92% believe it is very or somewhat important that women are included in political decision-making. Eighty-nine percent said the same for young adults.
“The data clearly indicates that people are eager to participate in the national and local elections in 2025,” said McCarthy. “It is also important for them to see women and young people represented in the political process.”
Kosovo citizens are also concerned about tensions with Serbia. Compared to a poll fielded in March 2023, the share of respondents who are very or somewhat worried that tensions with Serbia will develop into greater conflict and violence has increased by 17 percentage points.
Methodology
The survey was conducted on behalf of the International Republican Institute’s Center for Insights for Survey Research by UBO Consulting. Data was collected between May 6 and May 27, 2024, through CAPI administered face-to-face interviews at respondents’ homes. The sample consists of n=1,200 citizens of Kosovo aged 18 and older. The sample was weighted for gender, age, and ethnicity based on the 2011 Census and OSCE Municipal profiles. The response rate was 77%. The margin of error for the mid-range of the full sample does not exceed ± 3.0 points at the 95% confidence level.
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