David Oberhuber, the director of GIZ, recently reflected on the evolution of German-Kosovar cooperation as he concludes his eight-year mandate overseeing initiatives in both Kosovo and North Macedonia. In an exclusive interview, Oberhuber outlined a significant shift in focus for the partnership. He noted that German support is transitioning away from primary institutional building toward fostering robust economic development, promoting innovation, advancing renewable energy sectors, and facilitating deeper European integration for Kosovo.
Oberhuber provided an assessment of Kosovo’s current state, characterizing it as a functional society supported by effective institutions and a capable populace. Despite this positive outlook, he acknowledged that two persistent structural challenges continue to impede the nation’s full development potential. During his discussion, the director detailed the scope of GIZ’s involvement over the past decade.
He highlighted the breadth of GIZ’s projects, which have spanned collaborations with various local businesses, governmental institutions, and civil society organizations. These efforts have been designed to support tangible progress across multiple sectors. The interview provided an overview of the main initiatives undertaken, underscoring the depth of German engagement.
Oberhuber’s reflections serve as a comprehensive review of the trajectory of German development assistance in Kosovo, marking a pivot toward sustainable economic growth and integration pathways.
Topics: #oberhuber #kosovo #giz
It’s reassuring to hear about the institutions, but the focus on those two structural challenges sounds like the real hurdle for future cooperation.