2013
This study addresses the essence of state-society relations in Kosovo, that of political obligations. Combining an original analytical framework with rich empirical evidence, the study finds that political obligations are highly connected with the extent to which people's needs are met, their rights recognized and protected, and their agency and capabilities enabled. As this study illustrates, the intersection of these aspects provide the essential ingredients for an active and critical citizenry in Kosovo. Current political and socioeconomic conditions in Kosovo speak of the fragile state-society relations evident with resilience, informality, public distrust, as well as more proactive forms of citizen resistance and disobedience. An overcoming of this complex relationship requires changing in how people perceive the state, which should be as a joint commitment and common good, and how the state sees the society, which should be the source of legitimacy and democratic representation.