NGO Aktiv has presented a new report analyzing the implementation of the Law on the Use of Languages in Kosovo – a law that guarantees equal status for the official use of Serbian and Albanian.
The report was prepared in cooperation with Radio Kim, the New Social Initiative (NSI), Radio Goraždevac, the Advocacy Center for Democratic Culture (ACDC) and the Media Center in Čaglavica, with the support of the Council of Europe Office in Pristina. Its aim is to comprehensively map and analyze institutional practices in the implementation of the Law on the Use of Languages and, beyond documenting the current situation, provide a basis for systemic changes towards more consistent and effective application of language equality.
Key findings and weaknesses in implementation
The analysis shows that many institutions still fail to ensure consistent and quality use of both official languages, either through the absence of translations in official documents, non-functional websites, or limited monitoring capacities. A particular concern is the unavailability of important documents in Serbian, including job competitions, public calls, decisions, regulations, and administrative instructions. Even when available, translations are often incomplete, superficial, or inaccurate.
The report also warns about the growing practice of using automated translations in official communication. Such translations are often incomprehensible, grammatically incorrect, and terminologically flawed, which seriously undermines citizens’ right to equal access to information. This practice effectively excludes non-majority communities, creating informational and administrative barriers, feelings of invisibility and insecurity, and eroding trust in public institutions.
Examples of good practice and recommendations
Nevertheless, the document also identifies examples of good practice, underlining that consistent implementation of the law is possible when there are political will, institutional responsibility, and awareness of the importance of respecting language rights. Therefore, the report’s goal is not only to point out shortcomings but also to open space for dialogue and advocacy of policies that would lead to a more inclusive and accountable institutional framework.
The broader importance of language equality
The publication of this report comes at a time when the need to strengthen the rule of law and ensure equal access to institutions for all communities is increasingly emphasized in Kosovo. In this context, the full implementation of the Law on the Use of Languages is not only a legal obligation, but one of the key conditions for respecting human and non-majority rights guaranteed by domestic legislation and international mechanisms.
The full report is available HERE.