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Briefing by Milbert Dongjoon Shin, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), on Kosovo.

Briefing Council members, the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Officer-in-Charge of the Mission, Milbert Dongjoon Shin, commended and congratulated the people of Kosovo on the peaceful and inclusive atmosphere of the local elections held on 12 October.

He called on all parties to maintain the same calm and inclusive environment in the run-off elections set for 9 November.

He also noted, “Since the legislative elections in February, divisions between political parties had prevented the constitution of the Assembly of Kosovo and the formation of a government. This stalemate had constrained the functioning of central institutions. On October 10th, with the election of a Kosovo Serb Deputy President, the Assembly was declared to be constituted by its President. Subsequently, ten Assembly members, including the nine members from the Srpska Lista party, contested this election before the Constitutional Court.”

He continued, “Pending the Court’s decision, we reiterate that respect for the independence of the judiciary remains a cornerstone of democratic society. And we express hope that, in line with the Court’s ultimate decision, political divisions can soon be overcome, so that the people of Kosovo will be represented and served by their institutions.”

Shin reiterated the concerns regarding the potential impact of the closures of Serbia-run institutions, on access to health, education and culture.

He said, “Authorities in Kosovo recently announced that the full enforcement of the Law on Foreigners, and the Law on Vehicles, would begin on November 1st. This could introduce administrative challenges affecting access to essential rights and services, including healthcare, education and employment. This is concerning, for those habitual residents of Kosovo from non-majority communities, who continue to face difficulties in obtaining the necessary documentation.”

He stressed that it is important that Pristina authorities genuinely engage all concerned communities, prior to enforcing decisions that affect everyday lives, and that they seek viable alternatives in order to avoid or minimize negative impacts.

He said, “We are concerned by arrests relating to the display of cultural, national, or religious symbols. We underscore the need to respect the legal framework that exists in Kosovo and strike a proper balance between protecting the freedom of expression and preventing the incitement of hatred or violence.”

He reiterated UNMIK’s calls for the return of Kosovo Serbs to public institutions, “Kosovo’s vibrant multi-ethnic society should be reflected across its institutions, which can only strengthen democratic governance.”

“Recent pressures on civil society warrant close attention. Media freedom and the freedom of expression also remain under pressure. The Association of Journalists of Kosovo has reported personal attacks against journalists, and the public TV broadcaster has faced challenges to its independence.”