Bloggers debate Kosovo's IMF/World Bank membership

24/07/2009

There was a heated exchange of views in the blog world following Kosovo's entry into two international financial institutions.

By Besa Beqiri for the Southeast European Times in Pristina – 24/07/09

Kosovo Prime Minister Hashim Thaci (left), IMF Managing Director Dominique Strauss-Kahn (centre) and Kosovo President Fatmir Sejdiu at the IMF headquarters in Washington. [Getty Images]

The World Bank and the IMF accepted Kosovo as a member last month, an important step in securing much needed international aid and affirming Kosovo's independent status.

The head of the International Civilian Office in Pristina, Pieter Feith welcomed the news. "Kosovo's admission to the IMF will be an important step for Kosovo's economic development." He explained that "regional and global co-operation through international institutions leads to stability, prosperity and reconciliation."

However, Kosovo's membership has been a contentious issue as Serbia and Russia actively lobbied members to reject Pristina's bid.

Expectedly, many Kosovo Albanian bloggers were jubilant, expressing their thoughts on the comment space at Pristina daily Ekspres.

But soon a heated exchange of posts turned up at Belgrade-based B92. "So this is what has become of [the] IMF! Lending money to a black market economy. Thanks IMF!" writes MikeC.

"What economy?" asks d rhetorically, and answers -- "supermarkets, petrol stations, restaurants and-most important-car-wash".

Ian fires back by emphasising the greater significance of membership. "[It] will show countries that are still undecided on Kosovo's recognition that Kosovo is here to stay, and that it is becoming part of everyday life in the international community."

Not so fast, warns Ron. "As long as Feith makes sure nothing happens against [UN Resolution] 1244", Serbia's territorial integrity is preserved. "Remember: 1244 is still valid. It is about time Albanians start recognising this fact!"

Svabo adds, "About 5% of the IMF funds will actually see the light of day. The rest will be pocketed by all the Kosovo crooks roaming and terrorising the country."

But AgimY fires back. "Whom [sic] is Serbia begging money from this week?" he asks. "IMF, World Bank, European banks, EU ... or all of above"?

"Serbia is getting pocket change," compared to Kosovo. "Kosovo is the unwanted child of Europe. You can't kill it and you can't give it back … So, shower it with tonnes of money and pray," Mike C says.

"To all who are scrutinising Kosovo," advises Olf, "why don't you focus on the same problems in Serbia instead?" He adds that like Kosovo, "Serbia has as many problems [with] corruption, organised crime. … plenty to do in Serbia, leave Kosovo alone."

Ment offers a more moderate view, one that is a win-win for everybody. "I realise this is not great news to a few commenting on this site ... but I hope they do understand that any improvements in Kosovo's economy through help from the IMF will most probably benefit the Kosovo Serbs as well … especially those living south of Mitrovica."