Meeting of the UN Security Council. The UN called for maintaining a calm and inclusive atmosphere during the second round of elections in Kosovo Peace and Security
The acting head of the United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), Milbert Dongjoon Shin, welcomed the peaceful and inclusive nature of the local elections held on October 12. He stressed the importance of maintaining the same atmosphere in the second round of elections scheduled for November 9.
“I urge all parties to maintain the same calm and inclusive atmosphere in the second round of elections on November 9, so that people can continue to freely exercise their right to vote,” Sheen said in his speech to the Security Council meeting on Kosovo.
Meetings under the auspices EU
He welcomed the June and September meetings in Brussels between Belgrade and Pristina under the auspices of the EU. Shin stressed that both sides should avoid steps that undermine trust and resolve issues constructively. He also noted the work of the working group on missing persons, which met in July under the chairmanship of the International Committee of the Red Cross.
Shin welcomed the efforts of the Kosovo authorities to simplify the registration of Kosovo residents whose documents were issued by Serbian institutions. However, he expressed concern about the upcoming full implementation of the Aliens Law and the Motor Vehicle Law on November 1, which could make it difficult for minorities to access basic services.
“This can lead to administrative difficulties affecting access to basic rights and services, including health, education and employment. This is a concern, especially when it comes to permanent residents of Kosovo from communities outside the majority population, who continue to face difficulties in obtaining the necessary documents,” Shin said.
He also noted the concerns of the UN and its international partners about the possible consequences closure of Serbian institutions in Kosovo. He said Pristina authorities should actively consult with local communities before making decisions that affect people’s daily lives and seek alternatives that minimize negative impacts.
Freedom of expression
Shin pointed out the importance of respecting freedom of expression. He stressed that arrests related to the display of cultural, national or religious symbols are troubling and can undermine confidence in the judicial and law enforcement systems.
“Failure to maintain this balance risks violating international human rights standards and undermining public confidence in the judiciary and law enforcement authorities,” Shin said. He noted that civil society and free media are the pillars of Kosovo’s democratic development, and therefore pressure on journalists and restrictions on freedom of expression require special attention.
Shin also stated that the multi-ethnic nature of society should be reflected in the institutions of government.
Strengthening trust
He spoke about the programs of the UN mission in Kosovo aimed at building trust between communities, including joint projects with municipalities and training for women leaders, many of whom were participating in elections for the first time.
Council Security Council, in its resolution 1244 of 10 June 1999, authorized the Secretary-General to establish an international civilian presence in Kosovo – the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) – with a view to establishing an interim administration for Kosovo, under which the people of Kosovo would be able to enjoy substantial autonomy.
Later, following the declaration of independence by the Kosovo authorities and the entry into force of a new constitution on 15 June 2008, the Mission’s objectives were significantly adjusted to focus on promoting security, stability and respect for human rights in Kosovo.