EU appoints German Dirk Schubel as head of its representation in Kosovo

German diplomat Dirk Schubel has been appointed by the Council of the European Union to head the office of the EU Special Representative in Kosovo.

He will begin his engagement on September 1, 2026, with an initial mandate of two years, succeeding Estonian Aivo Orav in the post.

Schubel brings with him a wealth of experience from the European External Action Service (EEAS), the European Commission, and German diplomacy.

In his most recent role, he headed the Russia Division within the EEAS structure.

Previously, his career has included the position of EU Special Envoy for the Eastern Partnership in 2022-2024, as well as heading the EU Delegations in Belarus (2019-2022) and Moldova (from 2009 to 2013).

Based on the Council’s official decision, Schubel’s mandate will be directed towards promoting a Kosovo with stable, democratic institutions that respects ethnic diversity, giving impetus to the country’s European integration process.

He will oversee the implementation of priorities in the political, economic and security spheres, assist in consolidating standards of human rights, rule of law and minority protection, and facilitate coordination of the European Union’s political actions on the ground.

Likewise, his responsibilities include providing political direction for the EU Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) and supporting the dialogue between Pristina and Belgrade, with the objective of strengthening regional stability and good neighbourly coexistence.