Kosovo tourism in the shadow of geopolitical change

This article employs a mixed-method approach – combining a literature review, descriptive statistical analysis, correlation testing, and the GIS for data visualization – to analyze the effects of geopolitical changes and political instability on tourism in Kosovo. Given Kosovo’s goal of establishing tourism as a leading economic sector, the aim of this article is to determine whether and to what extent geopolitical factors influence its development. Despite persistent regional tensions and limited international recognition, Kosovo’s tourism has remained resilient and shown gradual growth, primarily driven by diaspora and regional visitors. The findings reveal no statistically significant correlation between annual geopolitical events and tourist arrivals, indicating that the tourism industry has adapted to low-level instability. The study highlights a potential for sustained tourism growth in Kosovo in the future.