The peaceful and inclusive atmosphere of recent local elections was commended by Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Officer-in-Charge of UNMIK Milbert Dongjoon Shin in his briefing to the UN Security Council.
“Municipal governments are the closest link to communities. Their proper functioning helps translate people’s voices into actions that shape their daily lives,” DSRSG Shin said during a regular session on the situation in Kosovo today.
Welcoming the higher numbers of women candidates in this year’s municipal elections, he noted that only one of Kosovo’s 38 municipalities will be led by a woman mayor.
DSRSG Shin called for continued calm and inclusivity in the run-off municipal elections scheduled for November.
He also welcomed recent meetings between Belgrade and Pristina within the EU-facilitated Dialogue but reiterated concerns around closures of structures, particularly those that impact health, educational and cultural services.
“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.”
DSRSG Shin reflected on growing reports of police arrests relating to the display of cultural, national, or religious symbols and concerns about media safety and independence.
“Kosovo’s dynamic civic space remains one of its greatest strengths. Yet, recent pressures on civil society warrant close attention.”
Looking at work being done by the Mission, DSRSG Shin highlighted a leadership programme supported by the Mission for 60 political and civil society representatives; the 7th edition of the United Nations Youth Assembly in June with more than 130 leaders from Kosovo and the Western Balkans; and the UNMIK-supported Barabar Centre, which has hosted more than 220 multi-ethnic events for more than 17,000 participants.
“UNMIK reiterates the importance of building trust among communities. We therefore continue, despite financial constraints, to promote trust and social cohesion.”
Full statement: DSRSG / OIC OF UNMIK MILBERT DONGJOON SHIN SECURITY COUNCIL BRIEFING ON UNMIK | UNMIK