Kosovo

Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008 and has since been recognised by over 100 UN member states, including the United States and most EU countries, though it remains partially recognised and is not a UN member. It is the youngest and one of the smallest countries in Europe, with a predominantly Albanian-speaking population. Kosovo uses the euro as its official currency despite not being an EU member. The country holds EU candidate status and is progressing through the accession process. Its Kosovar passport offers limited visa-free travel, but an EU visa-liberalisation agreement granting Schengen-zone access entered into force in 2024. The economy is one of the region's poorest, with a low cost of living and a growing diaspora-driven remittance sector. Pristina is the cultural and economic hub.