Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo calls for full respect of human and community rights

PRISHTINË/PRIŠTINA, 9 December 2011 – Ambassador Werner Almhofer, the Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, made the following statement today ahead of International Human Rights Day on 10 December:

“More than twelve years have passed since the conflict in Kosovo. A lot of progress has been achieved since then in areas such as security and freedom of movement, inter-ethnic relations and access to justice.

“However, we are still witnessing reoccurring human rights violations. It is, therefore, imperative for all of us - local and international leaders and institutions, and Kosovo’s society at large - to do our utmost to ensure full respect for human and community rights.

“There are still tens of thousands of displaced persons, from all communities, who have not returned to their pre-conflict homes, nor were they offered other durable and suitable solutions. The continuous illegal occupation and repetitive looting of their properties, as well as their occasional rejection by receiving communities, also remain problems. 

“Thefts and vandalism against cultural and religious heritage sites continue and thereby contribute to intolerance and misunderstanding between different communities.

“While we all hear about those problems all too often, today is the day to stress that those issues must be further addressed.

“There is a solid legal framework governing human rights protection in Kosovo and it is essential that it be implemented by the institutions. We are willing to continue to help in this regard.

“We must also note that the ability of Kosovo institutions to protect human rights and ensure rule of law is at times hampered by the intimidation of judges and prosecutors at all levels, during and outside of working hours, while there are also allegations of ill-treatment of persons held in detention facilities.

“Last, but not least, human rights of vulnerable and marginalized groups in Kosovo, including persons with disabilities and victims of domestic violence or trafficking, are not yet fully respected, protected or fulfilled.

“The OSCE Mission in Kosovo recognizes the commitment of central and local level governments to comply with the law and protect human and community rights. However, additional efforts are needed to address these human rights challenges. We are particularly encouraged by the growing role of civil society organizations, which are focusing attention on these human rights concerns and are working with the government to resolve them.

“The OSCE Mission remains committed to working with all relevant institutions in Kosovo, both local and international, to support the return process and property rights implementation, to advance judicial independence and impartiality, as well as to help protect the rights of all vulnerable persons in Kosovo.”

The OSCE Mission in Kosovo, established in June 1999 is mandated with human rights protection and promotion, democracy building and public safety development.