Kosovo’s inclusive and peaceable election marks progress, however challenges stay | EUROtoday

Briefing ambassadors within the Security Council, Caroline Ziadeh, Special Representative of the Secretary-General, highlighted that girls secured extra seats within the 120-member Assembly – exceeding the 30 per cent gender quota mandated by regulation.

“I congratulate the people of Kosovo on yet another peaceful and inclusive election,” she mentioned.

Following the ultimate certification of election outcomes on March 27, consideration now turns to the formation of Kosovo’s new authorities, she added, recognising complicated negotiations forward.

According to media experiences, Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s occasion completed first, securing 48 seats, however falling in need of the 61 required for majority.

“Once [the next government is in] place, it is imperative that concrete steps will be taken to prioritise the well-being of the people in Kosovo as well as the implementation of commitments made under the EU-facilitated Dialogue and advance on the process of normalisation of relations,” Ms. Ziadeh mentioned.

Building belief

The UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) for its half stays dedicated to fostering trust-building efforts throughout ethnic and political divides, she mentioned, with initiatives such because the UNMIK-supported Barabar Centre, which has hosted over 100 interethnic dialogue occasions fostering reconciliation.

Additionally, a high-level gender roundtable was organized within the Albanian capital, Tirana, final September bringing collectively regional leaders to boost ladies’s roles in decision-making and battle decision.

Innovative programmes – comparable to joint cultural heritage visits, and science, expertise, engineering and arithmetic (STEM) training for women – are serving to create connections throughout ethnic strains and strengthening belief, Ms. Ziadeh mentioned.

Challenges stay

However, challenges stay, such because the Pristina authorities’ closure of Serbian-run social welfare establishments in northern Kosovo, which have raised issues about entry to important providers.

“Time and again, I have expressed my concerns regarding the closures of Serbia-run institutions and the consequences they are having on economic and social rights, especially for persons in vulnerable situations,” Ms. Ziadeh mentioned.

She additionally famous issues over earlier allegations of sexual harassment of Kosovo Serb ladies in public, underscoring the necessity for extra sturdy investigations.

Ms. Ziadeh urged authorities to method such delicate points by way of constructive dialogue fairly than by way of unilateral motion.

Call for worldwide help

She urged ambassadors to stay resolute of their help for peace, stability and principled cooperation in Kosovo.

“Through collective commitment, we can help reinforce credible political dialogue, safeguard fundamental rights, and lay firmer foundations for security and increased prosperity.”