- Dirk Schuebel took up his post as EU Ambassador and Special Representative in Kosovo on 2 September 2026.
- The EU has provided more than €3.7 billion in assistance to Kosovo since 1999.
- Schuebel previously served as EU Ambassador to Belarus (2019–2022) and Moldova (2009–2013).
- The new ambassador called for swift formation of institutions to leverage the EU Growth Plan and IPA funding.
- Alexis Hupin was newly appointed as Deputy Head of EU in Kosovo to support Schuebel.
Assumption of EU Ambassadorship in Kosovo
Dirk Schuebel has formally taken up his position as European Union Ambassador to Kosovo, simultaneously serving as Head of the EU Office in Kosovo and European Union Special Representative (EUSR). The German diplomat and senior EU official assumed his responsibilities in Pristina in September 2026.
Background and Previous Appointments
Schuebel has a long career in EU foreign policy. He previously held two ambassadorial posts: as EU Ambassador and Head of the EU Delegation to Belarus from 2019 to 2022, and as EU Ambassador to Moldova from 2009 to 2013. Most recently, he served as Head of the Russia Division at the European External Action Service (EEAS).
Commitments and Strategic Focus Areas
Upon his arrival, Schuebel stated that he looks forward to working with Kosovo's institutions, political actors, civil society, media and all communities to help a multi-ethnic Kosovo advance on its EU integration path on an equal footing with all other Western Balkans partners.
"I will support Kosovo's European future. Working towards it requires a whole-of-society effort and a shared commitment to making EU integration a priority across political divides," the new ambassador said.
Schuebel also reaffirmed his support for the EU-facilitated Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue and progress towards normalisation of relations, in close cooperation with EUSR for Dialogue Peter Sorensen.
EU Contribution to Kosovo
The EU has supported Kosovo for more than 25 years since 1999 and is regarded as the country's strongest and most reliable partner. Total assistance amounts to more than €3.7 billion.
| Area of Support | Description |
|---|---|
| Reconstruction | Infrastructure and institutions after the 1999 conflict |
| Institution building | Rule of law, democracy and good governance |
| Economic development | Growth Plan and business opportunities |
| Youth | Education and employment opportunities for young people |
Focus on Institutional Reforms
Schuebel called for the swift formation of functional institutions to allow the EU to fully engage and make use of available funds. He pointed to the EU Growth Plan and forthcoming IPA funding as key instruments.
"There is an important window of opportunity ahead. For the benefit of all its people, Kosovo needs functional institutions capable of delivering the necessary reforms," he said.
Organisational Setup
In his role as EU Ambassador, Schuebel will provide political advice and support to Kosovo's political processes and coordinate the EU's overall political presence in the country. He will be supported by newly appointed Deputy Head of EU in Kosovo, Alexis Hupin, and the EU team in Kosovo.
Ambassador Schuebel's full biography is available on the EEAS website.