OSCE Mission publishes report on handling of terrorism cases by Kosovo courts
Prishtinë/Priština, 19 September 2022 – The prosecution of terrorism offences has proved challenging around the world, and Kosovo is no exception. Nonetheless, judicial institutions have to make sure they adjudicate these cases fairly, effectively and in full respect of human rights standards, concludes the latest thematic report published by the OSCE Mission in Kosovo today.
The report, titled Handling of Terrorism Cases by the Kosovo Criminal Justice System, analyses terrorism cases over a three-year period between 2018 and 2020. It further identifies trends in prosecution practice and provides an overview of progress in prosecuting terrorism cases, as well as highlighting areas for improvement.
Acknowledging the recent progress and high commitment of Kosovo institutions and legal practitioners to prevent and prosecute terrorism, the report notes positive trends in case management and prosecution. However, some concerns were identified regarding the prosecution of the financing of terrorism, the quality of indictments and verdicts, and the use of pre-trial detention. The report concludes with recommendations to key institutions in Kosovo dealing with terrorism related cases to bring current legislation in line with EU and international legal standards, and to strengthen the capacity of all justice system and law enforcement actors in responding to these cases.
“Terrorism is an ever-evolving threat to security that demands robust investigation, prosecution and adjudication. We must be vigilant in response to these challenges, but our response must also respect human rights and the rule of law,” said Ambassador Michael Davenport, Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo.
“I hope that this report will inform the work of judges, prosecutors and lawyers who work on these cases and enable them to continue to develop their capacities to manage these cases to the highest possible standards. […] The report is a starting point and I look forward to furthering opportunities to discuss the findings. I will conclude by reiterating that the Mission is ready to support the Kosovo institutions in implementing the recommendations of the Report.”
The full report is available here: https://www.osce.org/mission-in-kosovo/526212