The position of the Serb community in Kosovo continues to be marked by security and institutional challenges, highlighting the need for more consistent implementation of the law, greater legal certainty, and improved communication between institutions and citizens.
This was one of the key messages of the roundtable “The Position of the Serb Community Awaiting the Formation of Institutions: Challenges, Institutional Relations and Future Perspectives,” organized by NGO Aktiv on 8 July at the Civic Energy Centre (CEC) in North Mitrovica.
The event brought together representatives of political parties, local institutions, media, civil society organizations, and citizens to discuss the security situation, the relationship between institutions and the Serb community, the events surrounding the Vidovdan commemoration in Gazimestan, the implementation of the Law on Foreigners, administrative challenges, media freedom, respect for the rule of law, and the consequences of the demolition of buildings in the Municipality of Zubin Potok.
Political representatives pointed to what they described as a deteriorating security situation and increasingly pronounced administrative and institutional obstacles facing the Serb community. They identified the developments following the Vidovdan commemoration in Gazimestan, the implementation of the Law on Foreigners, the conduct of Kosovo institutions and police, as well as issues related to the protection of property rights and citizens’ legal security as the main challenges. In their view, these circumstances contribute to a growing sense of insecurity and uncertainty among members of the Serb community.
Representatives of the media and civil society organisations stressed the importance of consistent respect for the rule of law, professional standards, and the protection of human rights. The discussion addressed institutional accountability, the response of the international community, respect for the presumption of innocence, and the role of the media in reporting on sensitive security issues. Participants also highlighted the need for greater institutional transparency, consistent implementation of the law, and equal treatment of all citizens.
Participants agreed that dialogue between institutions and citizens should be strengthened and that more effective solutions are needed to address issues affecting the daily lives of the Serb community, particularly in the period following the elections and while awaiting the formation of new central-level institutions.
NGO Aktiv will continue to organize public debates and expert discussions aimed at fostering a better understanding of the challenges facing communities in Kosovo and encouraging evidence-based dialogue grounded in respect for human rights and the rule of law.
