LOCAL PRESS 

Selakovic: Albanian extremism amplifies political instability in Kosovo (Tanjug/Politika/RTS/RTV) 

Serbian Foreign Minister Nikola Selakovic pointed out at Tuesday’s UN Security Council session dedicated to Kosovo and Metohija, that the political situation in the southern Serbian province is unstable and extremism among Albanians is stronger. Selakovic also drew attention to the latest reasons for Serb concern in Kosovo and Metohija, primarily Pristina’s reaction to the Visoki Decani monastery, the construction of a Kosovo Security Force (KSF) military base in the southern part of Kosovska Mitrovica, KSF military exercises, and undermining dialogue with Belgrade. Despite that, Serbia is determined and will not give up finding a compromise solution, which will be sustainable for future generations, said Selakovic, adding that lasting peace and stability can be achieved only if none of the participants in the dialogue acts with maximalist demands. He pointed out that the attacks aimed at Serbs and their property are increasing, stating that last year alone there were more than 80 attacks and incidents targeting Serbs, their property and religious buildings. In Pristina, as he emphasized, there is absolutely not a trace of political will for more than 200,000 displaced Serbs, who have been living outside Kosovo and Metohija for 22 years, to return to their homes, while 212,995 people are still temporarily housed in central Serbia or Serb-majority municipalities. Selakovic said that he expects the EULEX mission to continue supporting the Specialized Chambers and the Specialized Prosecutor’s Office, as well as its additional engagement in the area of ​​the rule of law, whereby special attention should be paid to witness protection and determining the fate of missing persons. He also expressed the expectation that the EU will make a decision on extending the mandate of EULEX in the following period as well. He especially emphasized the importance of KFOR and pointed out that any unilateral attempt to assign someone else, or for someone to take over a part of KFOR’s mandate and obligations, is a violation of UNSCR 1244 and is a potential source of instability and tension. In this regard, he pointed out that Pristina, contrary to international law, does not give up plans to install a new security challenge, saying that it is unacceptable to make unilateral decisions on the formation of the “Ministry of Defense” and start the transformation of the so-called “Kosovo Security Forces” into the so-called “Kosovo Army”. Selakovic especially pointed out numerous physical attacks on the facilities of the Serbian Orthodox Church in Kosovo, emphasizing that in just two weeks, as many as seven Orthodox facilities in the province were targeted by vandals, but he also drew attention to the Decani monastery case. Selakovic pointed out that the condition of the Serbian cultural and spiritual heritage in Kosovo and Metohija is humiliating, including four monuments that are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List – Visoki Decani, Bogorodica Ljeviska, Gracanica and the Pec Patriarchate. As he stated, the monastery of Visoki Decani is the most frequently attacked facility of cultural heritage in Kosovo and Metohija. Earlier, the UN Security Council session was interrupted after Russian representative to the UN Dmitry Polyanskiy requested that a flag of the so-called Kosovo that had been displayed in the background during a video address by Pristina representative Donika Gervalla be changed or removed because, as he noted, the so-called Kosovo is not a universally recognized state. The session was continued after consultations behind closed doors, but the flag was not removed. “I have no choice but to lodge a protest against the abuse of the video format of this session on the part of the representatives of Pristina in order to promote the symbols of the so-called statehood of Kosovo,” Selakovic said of the incident. The UN secretary general’s Special Representative and UNMIK Head Zahir Tanin said earlier dialogue with Belgrade was a foundation of progress that must come from within and that politicians in Pristina must realize that.

Brnabic expects UNMIK to remain engaged in an undiminished scope and with an unchanged mandate (RTS) 

Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic talked on Tuesday with the newly appointed representative of UN Secretary General and Head of the UN Office in Belgrade Mari Yamashita about the political and security situation in Kosovo and Metohija, on the occasion of the UN Security Council session dedicated to Kosovo. Brnabic assessed that the scope of work and engagement of the UN Office in Belgrade is of great importance for Serbia, since it is the main channel of communication with the UN Mission in Kosovo and Metohija and an important link in protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our country. Also, Brnabic expressed the expectation that UNMIK will remain engaged in an undiminished scope and with an unchanged mandate. She especially expressed her concern and characterized the current accusations against the abbot of the monastery Visoki Decani, Sava Janjic, as unfounded. She expressed confidence that the international community would react in order to protect the man who is a true link between cooperation and reconciliation between the two peoples, as well as the monastery of Visoki Decani, which is of great importance for Serbia in the cultural heritage system and is one of the most endangered cultural monuments in Europe. Presenting the priorities of the UN Office in the coming period, Yamashita pointed out that cooperation with the government and relevant institutions in Serbia is extremely good and that it closely monitors the situation in the region and UNMIK’s work as a guarantor of status neutrality in Kosovo and Metohija. Speaking about the current epidemiological situation, Yamashita assessed that Serbia is on a good path, thanks to the extremely good implementation of immunization of citizens. Brnabic expressed her gratitude to the UN Office in Belgrade for the cooperation, and wished the new boss welcome and success during her mandate.

Vucic to Fabrizi: Changes in Law on Information needed (N1) 

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic told on Tuesday Sem Fabrizi, the Head of the EU delegation to Serbia, the Law on Information and Media changes meant the first step in the implementation of the Media Strategy action plan. The two discussed short and long-term priorities in the rule of law and democratic management, Vucic’s office said in a statement. Vucic said it was necessary to implement activities envisaged by the Media Strategy soon, including changes of the Law on Information and Media, and draft a revised Law on Financing Political Activities in line with ODHIR recommendations, both crucial for the EU membership. He reiterated Serbia’s priority was to join the EU and that it was necessary to timely inform the bloc about Belgrade’s measures in the rule of law. The statement quoted Fabrizi as stressing the country’s progress in the rule of law and democratic management as crucial elements in Serbia’s progress to the EU. He added the rule of law spread through different government’s and the entire society’s sectors. Fabrizi said that a transparent and appropriate implementation of reforms was of tremendous significance for Serbia’s democracy and prosperity. He added that the judiciary reforms, the fight against corruption and organized crime and media freedom had a particular priority. The two agreed the accession process needed the adjustment of strategies and legislation in other areas of fundamental human rights, such as gender equality and violence against women. They also said that substantial and effective steps to combat corruption should be taken.

Godfrey: US deepening commitment to Serbia (Beta) 

US Ambassador to Serbia Anthony Godfrey said on Tuesday that the US was deepening its commitment to Serbia which had show itself as a good friend of the US and Balkans during the pandemic. At a news conference in the Serbian parliament ahead of a conference called, One Year Later: Serbian-American Relations During the Coronavirus, he recalled that Serbia had organized special flights for US citizens, donated protective gear and kits for testing and distributing vaccines. Recalling an agreement that he signed with Minister of Finance Sinisa Mali on fostering investment, which had created the conditions for the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to become in involved, he said that the Corporation was now working with the Serbian Finance Ministry on a package of loans and bank guarantees worth USD1billion for supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in Serbia during the pandemic.

Dacic: Relations with US among priorities of state policy (Tanjug) 

Serbian parliament speaker Ivica Dacic said on Tuesday Serbia and the US had not allowed the year “eaten by the coronavirus to eat the mutual relations of the two countries.” Speaking at a conference titled One Year On: Serbian-US Relations in the Time of the Coronavirus, he noted the two countries had maintained constant and very lively diplomatic ties, which he said had culminated in a White House meeting between Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and then US President Donald Trump. “For Serbia, the change of administration and the advent of President Biden only mean a continuation of constant work and partnership on finding compromise for the Kosovo and Metohija issue as the absolutely most significant state and national priority of the Republic of Serbia,” Dacic said. He said Serbia had sincere partners in President Biden and his aides, as well as their good energy to solve the Kosovo and Metohija issue and other important issues of mutual interest to the two countries through constant communication and in good faith.

Serbia-US relations are among the top priorities of the Serbian state policy, Dacic said.

Ambassador: Greece’s position on independence of Kosovo remains unchanged (Tanjug/RTV) 

Greece’s position that it does not recognize independence of Kosovo is well-known and remains unchanged, Greek Ambassador to Serbia Jorgos Giakofotakis told Tanjug. He, thus, commented the expectations of foreign policy analysts David Phillips and Daniel Serwer that Greece would change its position and probably recognize Kosovo. “In principle, we do not comment on the opinions of analysts, the Greek position on non-recognition of Kosovo is well known and remains unchanged,” reads the written answer of Giakofotakis, which was forwarded to Tanjug by his press service.

REGIONAL PRESS 

Dodik: RS will not take part in talks on changes to B&H Election Law if CEC members have any kind of role in that; RS will not engage in war and that only option is peaceful dissolution (ATV) 

Addressing a press conference in Istocno Sarajevo on Tuesday, Serb member and Chairman of the Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) Presidency Milorad Dodik stated that under the veil of the pandemic, political issues and unsolved problems were rolling behind the hill in B&H. One of the burning issues are changes to the B&H Election Law and Dodik stressed that Republika Srpska (RS) will not take part in talks on changes to the B&H Election Law if members of the B&H Central Election Commission (CEC) have any kind of role in that. Dodik said that amendments to the B&H Election Law cannot be discussed by the current members of the CEC. “The CEC is illegal, illegitimate and must be changed and that is a part of the conditions for us involved in the electoral legislation reform,” said Dodik. Dodik is sticking to its position on dysfunctional B&H, stressing that he does not feel good in a place where he has to pass by plaques that state that Serbs are the aggressors. Dodik underlined that the RS will not engage in war and that the only option is peaceful dissolution, adding that it is quite realistic for B&H’s dissolution to happen in a peaceful way. “What do you think what the response would be if a realistic and adequate representative of the Croat people was sitting in the Presidency and that we got the question of whether we are for a peaceful dissolution? Expecting that that would be (HDZ B&H leader Dragan) Covic… What would Covic say, what would I say, what would (Bosniak member of the B&H Presidency Sefik) Dzaferovic say in response to such a question? I will leave it up to you to draw a conclusion,” Dodik said. Dodik said that the RS will get involved in the talks on electoral legislation reform only after Croats and Bosniaks in the Federation of B&H (FB&H) find a solution for implementation of the Sejdic-Finci ruling. He noted that the RS has reached consensus on the Sejdic-Finci ruling matter ten years ago.

Dodik also said that there is more to the story with Slovenian President Pahor than Croat member of the B&H Presidency Zeljko Komsic revealed on Monday. Dodik emphasized that this topic was frequently addressed in the past period. “And I must say that the discussion, which Mister Komsic mentioned, was not the only one in which we spoke in this way. It is not the only one and there is more and more of that. There is more and more of that, but what Mister Komsic wanted to do is to immediately discourage all those that discuss this topic” Dodik told the press conference. Dodik stated on Tuesday that a peaceful dissolution in B&H should be discussed, but underlined that he would never sacrifice peace in the country. “I will never allow for Serbs to be put in a position where they must wage wars. And I will say something else now – not even for the RS. But what I will do is, I will use the time to come to a position where our peaceful dissolution will be possible,” Dodik stressed. Dodik also said: “I could agree with the US Embassy (to B&H) that the entities have no perspective outside of B&H. However, no one is making perspective for the entities, the entities will not exist outside of B&H; there will be independent states – each for itself – and not the entities.” The reporter noted that we cannot be certain yet on whether Dodik has the Slovenian support or not, adding that there is no official confirmation on whether the non-paper that allegedly speaks about the completion of the disintegration of the former Yugoslavia is true as Jansa denied the entire story on Monday, but this would not be the first time that officials hide these types of documents. Speaking about B&H’s path to EU membership, Dodik said that this matter has become a farce because the EU is currently not in favor of enlargement due to its many internal problems. According to Dodik, the EU is responsible for B&H’s stalemate in integration process too, because it keeps changing conditions for membership. Dodik underlined that 18 current EU member countries would not be able to meet present conditions for EU membership. Commenting the request of High Representative Valentin Inzko for annulling of awards to war criminals, Dodik said that this is for the RS parliament to reach a decision about, “if we even decide to give any importance to Inzko”. He stressed that awards are the matter of the RS and they will not change their decision. “If we asses that something realistically needs to be done on this matter, both Inzko and the one who will succeed him, need to know that we will return those awards first chance we get. Outcome of this fight is on our side,” said Dodik. “Decorations of the RS are our business and we will stick to our decorations regardless of the fact that it sometimes appears as if such arrogant, conceited and self-conceited guys like Inzko could achieve some initial result. If we are in a situation or perhaps assess that something might realistically be done, both Inzko and his successor need to know that we will restore those decorations the first chance we get,” Dodik underlined.

SDA warns peaceful dissolution of B&H will never happen and can only result in wars in region and entire Europe; RS officials strongly condemn SDA for presenting such threats (EuroBlic) 

Following claims of member of the B&H Presidency Zeljko Komsic (DF), who said that Slovenian President Borut Pahor openly asked members of the Presidency of B&H whether ‘peaceful dissolution of B&H might be possible’ during his visit to Sarajevo, SDA issued a press statement in which it warned that “politicians in the EU who possibly wish to advocate the topic of ‘peaceful dissolution of B&H’ and change of state borders in the Western Balkans must be aware of the fact that this will never happen and the only consequence might be wars in the region and, by chain reaction, in the entire Europe. Therefore, it would be the smartest thing for them not to even discuss this matter nor to even mention terms ‘dissolution’ and ‘change of borders’ at all when they refer to B&H”. SDA also requested competent institutions of B&H to declare as persona non grata everyone who is confirmed to have participated in creation of this topic in the EU institutions and ban their entry to B&H. “We expect institutions of the EU, member states of the EU and especially the Quint members to present a clear stance and stop any kind of initiatives or talks on this matter” SDA concluded. The daily commented by saying that the statement of Bakir Izetbegovic’s SDA is especially serious if viewed in the context of the current political and migrant crisis in B&H as well as in the context of Izetbegovic’s past statements on strong military industry in the Federation of B&H (FB&H) “for God forbid situations” as well as the fact that almost the entire security sector in B&H is in hands of Bosniaks. Chair of Serb Caucus in the House of Peoples (HoP) of B&H Sredoje Novic said that no political party has been warning about danger of possible war so much in past several months like SDA. Novic speculated that SDA is either trying to strengthen its electorate in fear from losing political positions or they really wish for a new war. “If they wanted to react to the statement of Pahor, then it is incredible that they were silent for two entire months” Novic said and added that a new war in B&H is out of question because neither European nor world forces would allow anything like that to happen “and I doubt that there are domestic forces that wish for something like that”. Novic went on to say that SDA constantly presents similar speculations on war while Republika Srpska (RS) is blamed for all kinds of things because of dissolution although it always emphasizes the term ‘peaceful dissolution’. Finally, Novic assessed that speculations on the war might also represent SDA’s attempt to divert attention away from pressures it exerts on the Court of B&H and Prosecutor’s Office of B&H, which are carrying out proceedings against high ranking officials of this party for crimes and corruption, but also to divert attention away from war crimes trials. Chair of SNSD Caucus in the House of Representatives (HoR) of B&H Snjezana Novakovic-Bursac said that the terms ‘chain reaction’ and ‘wars in the region’ remind everyone how far some politics is willing to go while persisting “on some kind of their view on future of B&H which they are not sharing with the other two constituent peoples”. Leader of ‘United Srpska’ Nenad Stevandic assessed that SDA is using the ‘vocabulary of terrorism’ to threaten with the war in B&H, region and entire Europe. “The biggest paradox is that they seek for support of the EU and Quint countries for such extremist stances. In a nutshell, SDA deems B&H is its private property with which it can do whatever it wants regardless of any laws, constitutional structure or process of accession to the EU,” Stevandic noted. PDP leader Branislav Borenovic said that he will use official channels to inform the European People’s Party and other official institutions and organizations in the EU about unacceptable threats with war presented by SDA against B&H, region and Europe.

Pahor: Upon my return from B&H, I am more convinced that EU finds itself in unfavorable situation, in which it must adopt decision on future of Western Balkans soon; Jansa denies that he sent non-paper to Brussels (Nova BH) 

Reactions continue to come after information was published on existence of a potential ‘non-paper’, which was sent by Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Jansa to Brussels and which allegedly addresses the matter of “border redrawing in the Balkans region”. This was all connected to the recent visit of Slovenian President Borut Pahor to B&H in March, during which Pahor asked members of the B&H Presidency if a peaceful dissolution in B&H is possible. Authorities in Slovenia claim that the so-called ‘non-paper’ does not exist. President Pahor said on Tuesday he wanted to inform his interlocutors in B&H that with the absence of expansion of the EU, a thesis is frequently mentioned which says that prior to expansion a “final dissolution of Yugoslavia is needed”. The EU leaders believe this is not possible without further bloodshed, Pahor says, which is why he asked the three B&H Presidency members what they thought about this, i.e. if a peaceful dissolution in B&H is even a possibility. Nova BH points that Pahor sent an interesting message on Tuesday about the future of the Western Balkans. “Upon my return from B&H, I am more convinced that the EU finds itself in an unfavorable situation, in which it must, not overnight, but soon, adopt a decision on the future of the Western Balkans. If it continues with its old ways, then that will last too long. In that case, many things will happen in the Western Balkans, maybe even with the use of force. But, if it hurries, then it will, certainly, import some unresolved issues between these nations to the European Union, but it will ensure peace and harmony,” Pahor told reporters.

EC says there is no info on so-called non-paper of Slovenian PM Jansa on change of borders in Western Balkans and dissolution of B&H (BHT1) 

Recent information according to which Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Jansa has created and sent to Brussels the so-called non-paper in which he calls for change of borders in the Western Balkans and dissolution of B&H causes reactions. Commenting on the alleged non-paper, the European Commission (EC) said on Tuesday that there is no information on such a document, reminding that the EC’s stance regarding the Western Balkans and its borders is clear, i.e. nothing should be changed. EC representatives say they are not informed of the existence of such documents. “Nothing should be changed in regards to borders at the Western Balkans. Work should be focused on regional reconciliation and cooperation. That is the logic of European integration process. All open issues between countries must be resolved within a process that does not go deep into dangerous territories, and which leans on the laws and principles of the European Union” stated European Commission Spokesman Peter Stano. N1 also covered the EC and noted that the European Council, whose President (Charles Michel) the alleged “non-paper” was addressed to, made no comments regarding the issue. Correspondent of the Slovenian Delo Peter Zerjavic wrote on Twitter that the press service of Michel confirmed that Jansa’s non-paper was delivered already last autumn. Later during the day, Zerjavic also wrote that the European Council cannot confirm that they received the document. Representatives of the EC stated that they are not aware of such document and added that inquiries about this should be directed to the Slovenian partners or European Council, to which the non-paper was allegedly sent. In statement to the daily, Stano said that EU position is clear when it comes to the Western Balkans: “There is nothing that needs to be changed there. We need to work on regional cooperation, reconciliation, that is the logic of accession process”. He noted that it is not up to EC to declare on this matter, stressing that EC has not received such document and is not aware of the alleged content. “I can only remind of continued and unambiguous support of the EU to territorial integrity and sovereignty of B&H,” said Stano. Slovenian MEP Irena Joveva told the daily that stances concerning the European path of the Western Balkans have to be clear- EU is the future. She stressed that retailoring of borders is not an idea for building of democratic country. “Therefore, any ideas in this regard are unacceptable, unjustified and harmful and in the end damaging for Slovenia and its vital interests in the region and Europe. Idea of peaceful dissolution was not an issue in the European Parliament or wider in European institutions. We support and we will always support sovereignty, progress and integrity of B&H and other country of Western Balkans,” said Joveva.

Fajon: Irresponsible behavior in regards to so-called completion of plan on peaceful dissolution of B&H could lead to new conflicts (Nova BH) 

Reactions continue to come after information was published on existence of a potential ‘non-paper’, which was sent by Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Jansa to Brussels and which allegedly addresses the matter of “border redrawing in the Balkans region”. This was all connected to the recent visit of Slovenian President Borut Pahor to B&H in March, during which Pahor asked members of the B&H Presidency if a peaceful dissolution in B&H is possible. Member of the European Parliament from Slovenia Tanja Fajon said that irresponsible behavior in regards to so-called completion of the plan on a peaceful dissolution of B&H could lead to new conflicts. “These past few days, I have too been over swamped with calls and many messages of concern from B&H, that warn to the fact that Prime Minister Jansa is trying to complete the plan ‘Milosevic-Tudjman’ for formation of a Greater Serbia and Croatia, by proposing a peaceful dissolution of B&H. Such irresponsible behavior could lead to a new war at the Balkans region,” Fajon wrote on her Twitter account.

US Embassy: B&H is democratic, multiethnic, sovereign and independent country with unquestionable territorial integrity (Hayat) 

Recent discussions on disintegration of B&H have shown that the spirit of the 90s in B&H is still present, commented the presenter. Slovenia’s President Borut Pahor asked the members of B&H Presidency whether a peaceful separation was possible in B&H, during Pahor’s visit to B&H.  After this information became public, the media have published that Slovenia’s Prime Minister Janez Jansa sent a so-called ‘non-paper document’ of an informal nature to the President of the European Council Charles Michel. This document allegedly proposes changing borders in the Western Balkans and separation of B&H on ethnic basis.  The US Embassy to B&H issued a statement: “We are committed to the principles of Dayton (Peace Agreement). B&H is a democratic, multiethnic, sovereign and independent country with unquestionable territorial integrity. Concerning the status of B&H, the opinions on it are irrelevant and instead the facts and international law are (relevant). Territorial integrity and sovereignty of B&H are guaranteed by the Dayton Peace Agreement”.

Dysfunctionality of B&H and its possible dissolution will be main topic of Brdo-Brijuni Summit later this year (Nezavisne) 

The daily learns that the Brdo-Brijuni Process Summit which was postponed last year due to the pandemic will take place sometime this year, although an exact date has not been set yet. The Summit will gather political leaders of B&H, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Kosovo and Albania. According to the daily’s sources, one of the main topics of the Summit will be the situation in B&H, its functionality and the issue of possible peaceful dissolution of B&H. According to the daily, the EU considers B&H the greatest problem in the Western Balkans, and there are many in Europe who believe that peaceful dissolution is the only way out. The daily’s source reminds that Slovenian President Borut Pahor already inquired this possibility. The source also claims that French President Emanuel Macron will attend the Summit too, and argues that Macron has also raised the issue of dysfunctionality of B&H in some EU circles. According to the source, Macron will become the leading figure of the EU after German Chancellor Angela Merkel retires later this year. The daily reminds that macron spoke about B&H in 2019. On that occasion, Macron stated: “If you are interested in this region, the first issue is not North Macedonia or Albania, but B&H. B&H is a ticking bomb which is ticking away right next to Croatia. It is facing the problem of returnee jihadi fighters”.

Grlic Radman: We unconditionally support stability and territorial integrity of B&H (Dnevni avaz) 

In an interview to the daily, Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlic Radman explained that a Croatian non-paper, sent to the EU Ministers, was designed with a goal to assist B&H in obtaining of the EU candidate country. Grlic Radman said that the non-paper was well received and all Ministers commended the initiative, which was co-signed by Hungary, Greece, Bulgaria, Slovenia and Cyprus, adding that this document will be a good basis for the discussion about B&H, which will take place before EU Foreign Affairs Council about the Western Balkans. The Minister underlined that the non-paper stressed out the main challenges concerning the economic, political, security and demographic situation and it includes series of recommendations and guidelines for the following period. Grlic Radman noted that one of key political challenges is implementation of political reforms necessary for solving the issue of Election Law before 2022 general elections. “I deem that successful implementation of this issue would immediately contribute to establishing of better mutual trust within B&H and thus assist easier establishing of all authority levels after the general elections,” said Grlic Radman. Talking about relations between B&H and Croatia, Grlic Radman underlined importance of good bilateral relations: “We unconditionally support stability and territorial integrity of B&H, as a state where all its constituent peoples and citizens are equal. Therefore, we support constitutional foundations of B&H. As for continued progress towards Euro-Atlantic integration, t is certain that B&H has no bigger advocator in this process than Croatia is.” Grlic Radman underlined importance of good relations between two countries and talking about the non-paper the Minister underlined the issue of Election Law, stressing that it is important for changes of this Law to be in line with rulings of the ECHR and other relevant rulings such is the one of Constitutional Court of B&H in Ljubic case. Talking about messages of US State Secretary Antony Blinken, Grlic Radman expressed satisfaction that the US is actively involved in political and economic reforms in B&H, adding that during the recent meeting of NATO member states, they all agreed that coordinated activities between allies is of the outmost importance for security of Europe. He noted that Blinken’s message underlined that B&H, as a very important strategic point, has to be functional and aim towards completing of Euro-Atlantic integration process. He underlined that Croats in B&H are “the only true, constructive and proactive partners in context of country’s accession to NATO and EU”. Grlic Radman underlined that Croatia’s ideas are in line with Blinken’s messages and therefore he underlines that a stable, functional and prosperous B&H is of the outmost importance for Croatia and for the EU. Asked about talks about electoral reform in B&H and differences in stances between HDZ B&H and SDA leaders, Grlic Radman said that electoral reform is key for solving the situation in B&H stressing that “illegitimate election” of Zeljko Komsic disturbed the trust between constituent peoples and citizens in B&H, which only slowed down B&H’s EU path. He called for agreement and electoral reform between legitimate representatives of all three constituent peoples, stressing that with assistance of the international community, B&H will soon reach an agreement on this matter. Grlic Radman noted that obtaining of the candidate status in this year would represent a huge political success for the EU and historic success for B&H. He concluded that B&H is civilizational, culturally and geographically part of Europe and as such it is important to entire EU, not just because of security and geostrategic interests but also because of contribution B&H can give to the EU.

Cavara: Bosniaks want change of concept of organization so the majority people can have absolute rule (Dnevni list) 

FB&H President and HDZ B&H Vice President Marinko Cavara said that when it comes to statement of SDA leader Bakir Izetbegovic about ‘breaking the shackles’ after the 2022 elections, the whole Bosniak political elite advocates domination of Muslims-Bosniaks through the civic model because they believe that Bosniaks, who have relative majority in line with the 2013 census, are entitled to it. According to Cavara, the Bosniak political elites are aware the constitutions of FB&H and B&H do not allow them that, which is why they request change of concept of organization of the FB&H and B&H, from equal constituent peoples to civic model, which would allow the majority people to have absolute rule. The FB&H President further noted that if they claim that peaceful dissolution of B&H is not possible, then they must be aware that peaceful change of concept of organization of state is not possible as well, especially because the current organization is a part of peace agreements that stopped the war, adding that they act as if they call for war. In this context Cavara said it is Izetbegovic who is the leader of such activities, whose statements openly announce that Croats will be excluded from running of the country i.e. Croats will be erased as political subject in the FB&H and B&H. In addition to this, Cavara said it is clear that SDA and other Bosniak parties will do everything to stall the process of talks on changes to the Law on Elections of B&H, adding that HDZ B&H will not give up on efforts to change the law.

Inzko says it is pity B&H HoP missed chance to adopt changes to B&H Criminal Code that refer to denial of genocide; Miletic calls on Inzko to use Bonn Powers to impose law banning denial of genocide (FTV) 

The latest attempt to adopt a law banning denial of genocide in B&H has failed in the B&H House of Peoples (HoP) and it is unreal that High Representative (HR) Valentin Inzko will impose the law. During the last session of the B&H HoP, the attempt of delegates Zlatko Miletic and Denis Becirovic to adopt changes to the B&H Criminal Code that actually ban denial of genocide in B&H has failed. FTV reminded that the aforementioned changes also aimed to ban denial not only of genocide but also other war crimes committed in B&H, as well as glorification of convicted war criminals, adding that just as before, SNSD and HDZ B&H should be blamed for failure to adopt the law. Miletic confirmed for FTV that he addressed the HR Inzko for the second time hoping that he will impose the law on denial of the genocide. According to Miletic, Inzko did not answer to his first letter but he hopes that Inzko will respond to his second letter. According to Miletic, the second letter reminds that Inzko was the one who promised citizens that he will impose this type of the law. Miletic added: “Well, when he (Inzko) promised it, I am giving him another motive or a reason to finally do this.” FTV contacted Inzko and asked for his comment on the latest developments and whether he will set a new deadline to authorities to reach the law or he will impose it on his own and Inzko responded by saying: “It is pity that the B&H HoP missed a chance to adopt changes to the B&H Criminal Code that refer to denial of genocide which was a joint proposal of two delegates. B&H MPs would show readiness and commitment to leave the evil behind in the past by adoption of this law and their focus on creation of atmosphere that incites reconciliation and building of a better, unburdened future for all citizens of B&H. It is pity that they missed this chance that came from domestic representatives.” The reporter noted that thus, “this is a new Inzko’s episode from concern to regret”, adding that chances that he will impose the law on his own are almost hopeless. Inzko previously set end of April as a deadline to authorities of the RS to withdraw all awards given to war criminals. N1 reports that Miletic called on Inzko to use the Bonn Powers to impose the law on the genocide denial.

Authorities in Sarajevo unwilling to remove plaques that call Serb criminals despite support from the Office of the High Representative for their removal (BN TV) 

BN TV carries a feature on the issue of plaques in Sarajevo in which the Serb people are called criminals and aggressors. Judging by the attitudes of the current politicians in Sarajevo, the disputable plaques will remain to be a part of Sarajevo, commented the presenter. A Serb who was expelled from Sarajevo in 1992 Milan Mandic claimed that Sarajevo is a mass grave of Sarajevo Serbs but there are no memorials dedicated for them because the authorities in Sarajevo do not allow it. Mandic said that the plaque on the Sarajevo City Hall should not be there as the City Hall is also the heritage of Sarajevo Serbs who participated in the city construction of today’s Sarajevo. BNTV carried statements of other citizens of Istocno Sarajevo whose opinion was that the plaque should be removed from the City Hall in Sarajevo. BNTV carried the statements of citizens of Sarajevo on whether the plaques should be removed and the opinions of citizens of Sarajevo was divided on the topic. The request to remove disputable plaques from the City Hall and other places was supported by the Office of the High Representative (OHR) but it has not yet been ordered to do so: “These demands are one of the incentives to open domestic dialogue as an important step towards reconciliation. We recall that the Steering Board of the Peace Implementation Council called on political leaders to fulfill their commitment, to pay tribute to all innocent victims and to abandon the rhetoric that hinders reconciliation efforts”. Sarajevo has also removed the names over 100 streets and squares which were associated with Serbs. The names of the streets in Sarajevo are no longer named after heroes from the Second World War nor after famous Serb scientists and poets.

Report by Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Suffering of Serbs in Sarajevo between 1991 and 1995 published on website of RS Center for War Research, War Crimes and Search for Missing Persons (RTRS/BHT1) 

The report by the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Suffering of the Serbs in Sarajevo between 1991 and 1995 was published on the website of the RS Center for War Research, War Crimes and Search for Missing Persons on Tuesday. RTRS carries that the report was made by six experts from Russia, the USA, France, Israel and Serbia who stated the cause of the conflict, the exact definition of the war, analyzed the presence of radical Islam and discussed “dishonorable role of international non-governmental organizations in ‘satanization’ of Serbs’’. The RS government is of the view the report will contribute to objective and unbiased perception of facts with regard to suffering of Serbs in Sarajevo and B&H. RTRS reports that the document is evidence that the Serb Christian community in Sarajevo was destroyed in the war totally. Commenting on the report, Chair of the Commission Raphael Israeli said for RTRS that Sarajevo became “Serbs free’’ and compared it to Europe and Germany that were “Jews free’’. RTRS reports that the report is an attempt of destroying the myth of Serbian criminals and Bosniak and Croat victims created by the USA and its partners causing great injustice to Serbs. Member of the Commission Laurence French said that the trauma of Bosniaks cannot be taken into account while ignoring Serbs “because then you have a whole group of people for whom there is not going to be any resolution”. RTRS reports it was stressed in the report that the war in B&H was a civil war and the idea of Serbian aggression was rejected. Member of the Commission Darko Tanaskovic said that it was undeniably determined that the key cause for the war was political outvoting of Serbs in 1991 “and organizing referendum as it was mono-ethnic or democratic state, not one deeply divided state, where a great distrust exists among the constituent peoples’’. RTRS reports that it was concluded that close to 3,000 of Serb civilians were killed in Sarajevo, two-thirds of whom were victims of war crime and remains of around 260 killed persons have not been found until the present day. Member of the Commission Patrick Barriot said that out of 2,907 killed civilians, 714, i.e. 25 per cent, were killed in their homes. Barriot added that a number of missing Serbs is higher, because whole families “were wiped out’’ with no survivors who could report their disappearance. RTRS reports that, according to the Report, the war objective of SDA was persecution of Serbs from Sarajevo, which was carried out by torturing, killing, illegally seizure of property, desecration of cemeteries and churches. Member of the Commission Viktor Bezruchenko said there were 126 prisons for Serbs in different phases of the war and in some other documents 188 prisons were mentioned. Bezruchenko added that Serbs were captured in the concentration camps in Tarcin and Celebici. RTRS reports that according to the report Sarajevo was in blockade, not under siege and the humanitarian aid was delivered in the city via convoys and through the tunnel and the problem was discrimination against Serbs during the distribution of the humanitarian aid, i.e. the UNHCR was de facto supplier for the Bosniak Army. BHT1 also reported and reminded that the RS government passed a decision to form the Commission based on conclusions of the RS National Assembly, deeming that it will contribute to unbiased overview of facts and that a whole and true overview of wartime events in Sarajevo and B&H will contribute to strengthening of trust and tolerance between peoples in B&H, as well as to reconciliation and coexistence of the current and future generations. The Commission concluded that the presence of Muslim fighters from different countries proves that Bosniak political and military leadership saw that war in B&H as jihad for liberation of Muslim land with the goal of establishing an Islamic state. According to the report, the Republic of B&H Army was a military unit controlled by SDA, it was mono-ethnic and as such, it had no moral right to secure ethnic and social equality for all citizens of B&H. The Commission also underlined that civilians of Sarajevo did not suffer hunger during the war.

Serb National Council presents 2020 report on anti-Serb hate speech and violence (Hina) 

The Serb National Council (SNV) presented its annual report on Tuesday, warning of cases of hate speech and violence targeting ethnic Serbs, including physical assaults, threats and property destruction, and expressing concern about a slow and inadequate reaction from the state authorities. The SNV said that historical revisionism and views denying the legacy of the anti-fascist struggle during the Second World War were not rare and were mostly directed against the Serbs, resulting in hatred and violence. SNV president Milorad Pupovac noted that the legislative framework included provisions that should prevent such manifestations, but they were not applied systematically and uniformly. He cited inconsistent court practice in the treatment of the Ustasha salute “For the Homeland Ready.” Pupovac said that the legislative changes were not sufficient if not supported by appropriate education and media policies. He said that other people too were targeted by hate speech and historical revisionism. “Rudeness, intolerance and hatred are the three worrying types of discourse when it comes to any differences, opposed views or identity. They can be stopped only if we fight for tolerance and discussion,” Pupovac said. The author of the report, Tihomir Ponos, said that the findings were similar to those from previous years, but that the number of attacks was lower than in 2019, possibly partly due to the coronavirus outbreak. A total of 214 cases of historical revisionism, hate speech and violence against Serbs were recorded in 2020, compared to 400 in 2019 and 381 to 2018. The most frequent were insults and threats made against Serbs and Serb institutions in Croatia (50 cases), hate speech and ethnic intolerance in the media (3), ethnic intolerance and historical revisionism in statements by public figures (35), graffiti and insignia expressing hate speech and ethnic intolerance (30), physical assaults (21), hate speech and ethnic intolerance at sporting events (8), damaged or stolen property of individuals and Serb institutions (8), damaged or destroyed anti-fascist monuments (7), damaged or destroyed bilingual boards (3). The SNV also expressed concern about a growing number of ethnic-based physical assaults in the eastern town of Vukovar, and the spraying of Ustasha insignia on the walls of public buildings and monuments.

Milanovic says Serbia must resolve missing persons issue before joining the EU (HRT) 

Croatian President Zoran Milanovic and veterans’ representatives agreed in full that the most important issue ahead of them is to resolve the fate of missing Croatian veterans and civilians. In a statement released after their meeting the president made it clear that Serbia has to stop blocking efforts to find 1 869 Croatian citizens still listed as missing from the Serbian aggression of the 1990’s: “The issue of missing persons must be resolved before Serbia joins the EU. We know that our neighbors know, and must know, much more about the missing than they are currently divulging. This is a human issue, a symbolic issue and a national issue.” Milanovic and the veterans’ leaders also discussed the lawsuits filed by Croatian POWs detained in Serbian concentration camps and Serbian war reparations owed to Croatia. The meeting was also attended by the President’s Special Adviser for Veterans’ Affairs Marijan Marekovic.

Djukanovic: I recognize certain capacities in Democrats and URA (RTCG/CdM) 

Montenegrin President Milo Djukanovic says he recognizes democratic capacities in the Democrats and the URA Civic Movement. The period when Montenegro was divided into separatists and unionists is behind us, now it is divided into those who want it in Europe or not, Djukanovic has stated during the RTCG’s show, on the occasion of the current political situation in the country. He says he believes that it is possible to reach a broad coalition in the future. As he stresses, the Greater Serbia nationalism is trying to malignantly influence Montenegro under the new motto of the Serbian World, without giving up Greater Serbia as a project whose name has only been changed. He adds that Montenegro has managed to preserve peace in the last quarter of a century, when many in the region have failed to do so. He says that there was no secret meeting with Prime Minister Zdravko Krivokapic. Djukanovic says that he discussed the current issues with the parliament speaker and the Prime Minister and that they were “trying to find opportunities for cooperation on issues that burden our reality”.  Djukanovic states that the idea of a greater Serbia consumes Montenegro, the goal of making Montenegro a part of the Serbian world. “Serbia wants to build the position of patrons, regional forces, to manage the areas it has outlined as Serbian. Where does the right of the state policy of Serbia to play that kind of paternalism come from? We saw it all in the 1990s. This is almost a tragicomic attempt. We live in a region where new destabilizations often occur according to the same matrix,” he points out. Djukanovic says that based on what he read, he would not say that the amendments to the Law on Citizenship have been abandoned. “The Prime Minister tweeted that these laws would be passed. It is the matter of the law and the decision. The proposed solution is to drastically change the electoral register. There is a desire to create a more favorable electoral roll for themselves in order to secure a monopoly. The law is trying to deprive Montenegrin citizens who are in the diaspora of the right to vote,” Djukanovic believes. He says that any state government that would try to deny its citizens the right to vote would be committing a crime.

“If someone dares in his crazy intention to interpret the results of the parliamentary elections as the right to overthrow the state, I really think it is legitimate that it has nothing to do with politics,” he stresses. “If someone from our house or outside our house wants to demolish it, then there is nothing that is not allowed”, he says. “We are responsible for the election outcome that we faced. Our coalition, however, was in power for 30 years, which led to saturation. We contributed to that result with our weaknesses and mistakes” Djukanovic points out. However, he adds that they showed a mature attitude towards such a reaction and public response. According to Djukanovic, the Vijesti media concern is the author of the symmetry of extremes, that is, that there are 2 extremes in Montenegro – the clero-nationalist DF on one hand and the DPS on the other hand. “It (Vijesti) is doing that to better present its political offer to international addresses, and that is URA. They are trying to build an international reputation. Vijesti does it for the sake of its personal and economic interests,” Djukanovic explains. He says that the government has fallen because of the budget, that is, that he is convinced of the correctness of the Constitution interpretation – it is stipulated that the government must fall if it fails to propose budget by 31 March to parliament. “On 30 on March at midnight, the budget was not proposed and the mandate of the government expired by virtue of the Constitution, and it must be considered delegitimized. The parliament is on the move now and it has to state this and invite the President of the state to assign a mandate for the new government. I think the state responsibility of the new majority is on trial,” Djukanovic explains. Responding to the claims that he helped the aggression against Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina, Djukanovic says that these were UDBA (State Security Directorate) manipulations of the Serbian service. These are manipulations that were previously announced by Radovan Karadzic’s Minister Moma Mandic. Commenting on the current situation related to Minister of Justice Vladimir Leposavic he says that he is not surprised by his views. When asked by a journalist how come that Thompson’s song is sung by Montenegrins, Djukanovic says that no such nationalism and iconography are needed at rallies. He adds that he read in the daily newspaper Vijesti on a four-sided sheet “that Montenegrin nationalism was ruling in Cetinje”. “In these texts, you will find a difficult background of how Montenegrin nationalism and anti-Serbism are flaring up in Montenegro, which is absolutely wrong. “In Montenegro, Serbia had a greater friend than in any other place, but it tried to endanger that friendship with the hatred that was sown”, Djukanovic concludes.

Pribilovic: Dacic will not decide on the fate of our state or anyone else outside it (CdM) 

Another malicious statement by Ivica Dacic, who as the Serbian parliament speaker, continues the same political rhetoric towards our country, which he advocated from the position of the then Serbian Foreign Minister, said DPS MP Suzana Pribilovic. “We are telling him that, when it comes to defending Montenegrin national interests, President Milo Djukanovic is not the only address for his attacks, but all our citizens who these days are strongly opposing the political engineering coming from the contractors of the Serbian world,” said Pribilovic.

According to her, it is obvious how much pressure is coming to our country from the structures that would like to completely change the political scene and demography in Montenegro with a large number of new voters. “Despite the fact that we have many times fewer inhabitants than our numerically superior neighbor, we will certainly not allow scenario according to which our state would be a victim of such an ideology.” Dacic will not decide on the fate of our state or anyone else outside it,” said Pribilovic. As Dacic points out, according to the valid law, Montenegrin citizenship is acquired by origin, birth on the territory of Montenegro, admission, and under international treaties and agreements. “So, not at the request or for the interests of any individual,” said the DPS MP. Exactly how many voters with two permanent residences are registered in the Montenegrin voter list and illegally vote in two countries, as he says, is an indicator that all these years Montenegro has not investigated Serbian citizens who exercise the right to vote in Montenegro. “This is proof that our party and our president cannot be accused of doing anything in the personal party interests to the detriment of the law, but as a state-building party we have always advocated that Montenegro be the home of all of us regardless of religion and nationality,” concluded Pribilovic.

Facebook removes 300 accounts tied to Iranian exile group MEK in Albania (Tirana Times) 

A network of 300 Facebook accounts, Pages, Groups and accounts on Instagram which appeared to be run from a single location in Albania and operated by the exiled militant opposition group from Iran, Mojahedin-e Khalq (MEK), were removed by Facebook, due to their “coordinated inauthentic behavior on behalf of a foreign country.” According to the March 2021 Coordinated Inauthentic Behaviour Report published by Facebook, the network “targeted primarily Iran and also global audiences with content related to Iran.” During the investigation, Facebook uncovered three separate clusters of activity, which included “consistent and long-running infrastructure connections between the fake accounts and authentic accounts of MEK-linked individuals and Pages operated from Albania.” According to Facebook, the network operated by MEK appeared to have been most active in 2017, with another spike in activity in the second half of 2020. Although they posted at high volumes, in general, they failed to build an audience on Fb, with only some exceptions. The people behind this activity relied on a combination of authentic and fake accounts to “post MEK-related content and comment on their own and other people’s posts, including those of international news organizations like Radio Liberty, Voice of America, and BBC. They also frequently posted links to websites and other social media channels affiliated with MEK.” Although the network used a variety of tactics to disguise its fake accounts, the automated system of FB disabled over the years a significant portion of them, while some accounts were also disabled since they violated the Community Standards against violence and incitement. Regarding the followers that these accounts attracted, Fb reported that about 9,000 accounts followed one or more of the 41 Pages created, about 150 accounts joined at least one of the 21 Groups created, and around 112,000 people followed one or more of the 146 Instagram accounts. There were also 128 accounts on Facebook. The network almost exclusively “posted about events in, or related to, Iran. It routinely praised the activity of MEK and its leaders and criticized the Iranian government,” the report adds. In many cases, the accounts used fake profile names and photos, while other accounts used photos of Iranian celebrities or deceased dissidents. The operators according to FB routinely shared technical infrastructure, meaning that the same operator could run multiple accounts, and multiple operators could run the same account. “These are some of the hallmarks of a so-called troll farm — a physical location where a collective of operators share computers and phones to jointly manage a pool of fake accounts as part of an influence operation,” said the report of Facebook. According to the Associated Press, “the National Council for Resistance in Iran, an umbrella group that includes MEK, said in a statement that no accounts affiliated with it or MEK have been removed. The group also denied the existence of an Albanian troll farm affiliated with MEK.” MEK is an Iranian opposition group many of whose members moved to Albania in 2013, where they live in a camp on the outskirts of Tirana.

INTERNATIONAL MEDIA SOURCES 

Meaningful Dialogue, Forward-Looking Policies between Belgrade, Pristina Central to Moving Forward, European Integration, Kosovo Mission Head Tells Security Council (UN Press Release, 13 April 2020) 

Expectations are running high in Kosovo after elections that reflected a strong desire among its people for their leaders to fight crime corruption, improve socioeconomic conditions and tackle the COVID-19 pandemic while also advancing dialogue with Serbia, the top United Nations official in Pristina told a videoconference meeting of the Security Council today.

Zahir Tanin, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), presenting the Secretary-General’s latest report on the Mission’s work (document S/2021/332), said turnout was high for the legislative elections on 14 February in which the winning party, Vetëvendosje, received a majority of votes.  The results indicated a strong desire for change across Kosovo society towards greater equality of opportunity, accountability and the rule of law.  He revealed that he spoke on 12  April with Kosovo’s new “prime minister”, Albin Kurti, who assured him that he understood the need to advance dialogue with Belgrade.  The Special Representative also spoke earlier today with Aleksandar Vučić, President of Serbia, who reiterated his hope for intensified dialogue.  In addition, the Special Representative noted last week’s election of Vjosa Osmani as “president” of Kosovo — the second woman to hold that position.

“I know, from my discussions with both Pristina and Belgrade, that each side is aware of how central the quality of their relations will be in achieving the aspirations of their constituencies for progress along the European path,” he said, adding that relations can only move forward — and mutual interests met — through meaningful and sincere dialogue and forward-looking policies.  Reiterating his appeal for leaders to be mindful of their public statements, he said that with a strongly mandated “government” in Pristina, tough subjects should be treated with seriousness and diligence.

Turning to other matters, he said that Kosovo is experiencing a dramatic spike in infections, with the running average of new cases at its highest point since the pandemic began in March 2020.  So far, the coronavirus has infected more than 100,000 people and caused more than 2,000 deaths.  A first delivery of 24,000 doses of vaccine through the COVAX facility arrived at the end of March, marking the start of a vaccination campaign, he said, adding that it will be essential to speed up vaccine-related support for Kosovo going forward.  In the context of COVID-19, UNMIK is monitoring the human rights ramifications of the pandemic.  It is also urging the “government” to make progress on clarifying the fate of missing persons by engaging with the Pristina-Belgrade Working Group on Missing Persons.

Looking ahead, he said that Kosovo’s new “government” faces great challenges, but also great opportunities, with Mr. Kurti foreshadowing a people-centred approach to governance that emphasizes the advancement of justice, tackling corruption and improving the social and economic outlook for the entire population.  “Opening the door to the future requires a transformation,” he said, emphasizing that reducing tension requires that ruling and opposition parties must come together on wider interests.  At the same timer, dialogue with Belgrade is a building block of progress that must come from within.  “The voters in Kosovo raised their voices for breaking with the past and I hope that the members of the Council will add their clear support for the realization of a more peaceful and more prosperous future in Kosovo and the region,” he said.

Nikola Selaković, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Serbia, noted with regret that recent elections confirmed that political extremism among Albanians in Kosovo and Metohija is rising.  Albanian leaders compete among themselves to find the best way to provoke incidents in Serb communities, in order to score political points with the Albanian electorate.  Citing many instances of offensive and threatening graffiti in Serb communities, he said that, from the earliest stages of the electoral process, Kosovar leaders sought to diminish support among the Serb voter list, resorting to irregularities such as arbitrarily deleting voters and changing polling stations, thereby depriving many Serbs in Kosovo of their fundamental democratic rights.  Despite those tactics, the Serbian people in Kosovo and Metohija demonstrated high turnout and won all 10 seats reserved for Serbian representatives.

Spotlighting discriminatory anti-Serbian policies that go beyond the recent election, he listed intrusions into Serb-run health-care institutions as they work to fight COVID-19 and attacks against vulnerable Serb returnees to Kosovo and Metohija.  One method to discourage returns is the systematic destruction of the economic foundation for return, including pressure on businesses in Serb-majority communities.  At the same time as they arrest internally displaced persons, Pristina authorities try to exert pressure on the Specialist Chambers in The Hague to prevent the further processing of cases against members of the Kosovo Liberation Army.  Abductions, attacks and murders committed against Serbs in Kosovo and Metohija continue to go unaddressed.

Urging the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) to continue to support the Specialist Chambers and the Specialist Prosecutor’s Office, as well as its additional engagement in the field of the rule of law, he called for special attention to witness protection and to determining the fate of missing persons.  He voiced support and respect for the work of international missions in Kosovo and Metohija, including UNMIK, Kosovo Force (KFOR), EULEX and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Mission in Kosovo, while underlining the need for them to remain engaged “in an undiminished scope” in line with resolution 1244 (1999).  In that vein, he rejected any unilateral attempt by another entity to assume part of KFOR’s mandate or responsibilities.  Pristina’s unilateral decisions on the formation of the “Ministry of Defense” and the launch of a process transforming the so-called “Kosovo Security Forces” into the so-called “Kosovo Army” are thus unacceptable.

Citing various attacks perpetrated against Serbian people in Kosovo and Metohija in recent months, he said another striking example is the disrespectful attitude prevalent towards Serbian cultural and religious monuments in the province.  Pristina has reacted to attacks against historic Serb monasteries only be denying the problem and claiming that Kosovo is an oasis of religious tolerance and multiculturalism.  It is high time for Albanian leaders in Kosovo and Metohija to show responsibility in fulfilling their commitments, as well as a sincere commitment to reaching a compromise solution and building mutual trust.  Serbia has repeatedly demonstrated its commitment to dialogue as the only path to a peaceful political solution.  “Even today […] we are still ready to sit down at the table and talk,” he said.  However, Serbia will not be blackmailed, threatened or respond to ultimatums, and expects Pristina to stop violating or obstructing the terms of previous agreements, he stressed.

Donika Gërvalla, of Kosovo, said that “the Republika of Kosova is entering a new era” after a majority of its population — in a first for any Balkan country — voted to free itself from corruption and crime.  Kosovo remains on the path to integration into the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and it hopes to one day join the United Nations as well.  Kosovo may be tiny, but it is not afraid, and it is in favour of reconciliation and eager to begin substantial and serious talks, even with those who were responsible for most of the conflict and genocide in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo in recent decades.

Recalling the conflict in Kosovo more than 20 years ago, she said that most of the perpetrators of unspeakable crimes which caused more than 15,000 deaths are still alive and enjoying life in Serbia and elsewhere.  They are often celebrated for their atrocities.  Serb leaders continue to praise war criminals while refusing to cooperate with international institutions, she said, adding that some alleged war criminals are members of Serbia’s Parliament.  “Serbia has to acknowledge and to accept that it has to pay a price for its murderous atrocities,” she said, calling upon that country to confront its past, free itself from its genocidal roots and try to become a truly civilized European country.

Kosovo wants to normalize its relationship with a European-minded Serbia through an open dialogue about their common past and, hopefully, their common future, she said.  Kosovo may be small, but it stands tall and it has many reliable friends.  “The independence of the Republic of Kosova is a done deal.  The earlier Serbia accepts the reality, the quicker it can get [away] from its dark past into a bright future,” she said, adding that Kosovo wants Serbia to calm down, open up and start making friends in the region.

In the ensuing debate, several Council members renewed their call for Belgrade and Pristina to pursue dialogue to overcome their differences and build stability in the Western Balkans, particularly in the midst of the pandemic, emphasizing that therein laid the path for European integration.  They also welcomed the work of the Kosovo Specialist Chambers and Specialist Prosecutor’s Office, based in The Hague, which are addressing war crimes, crimes against humanity and other crimes during the Kosovo conflict.

The representative of Norway, recalling that her country was among the first to recognize Kosovo as an independent State in 2008, commended its institutions, political organizations and voters for the legislative elections held in February.  Noting that the Secretary-General’s report describes slow progress in fighting political instability, including combatting corruption and ensuring the judiciary’s independence, she urged Kosovo’s new leaders to capitalize on the electoral momentum to tackle those challenges, consolidate the rule of law and uphold human rights.  Encouraging the parties to resume the European Union-facilitated dialogue based on the Brussels Agreement, she agreed with other speakers that a full normalization of relations is key to avoid a frozen conflict.  “This is paramount for the future development of Kosovo, and of the region,” she stressed, pledging to continue to work closely with all relevant partners to achieve that goal.  Democratization, strengthening the rule of law, freedom of expression, protection of human rights and the fight against domestic and gender-based violence continue to be fundamental for social transformation, she added.

The representative of France said that his country and the European Union stand alongside Kosovo as it overcomes its many challenges.  However, there is no other path for Kosovo or Serbia than to achieve a comprehensive, definitive and legally binding agreement.  That is a precondition for closer European ties for both of them.  He called on the two sides to engage with determination, and on the basis of previous talks, in negotiations on such questions as economic cooperation, displaced persons and refugees, and missing persons.  Hopefully, the Special Representative of the European Union for Kosovo, whose mediation role is based on a Council resolution, will soon be able to brief the Council on his efforts.  He went on to welcome UNMIK’s efforts and called on all actors to support the Kosovo Specialist Chambers and Specialist Prosecutors Office.  Serbia and Kosovo have a shared European future and their leaders should act as Europeans in the pursuit of compromise, he added.

The representative of the Russian Federation said that more than 12 years after the Brussels Agreement was signed, the Kosovo Albanians continue to ignore their commitments, including the establishment of an association of Serb-majority municipalities.  Recently, Kosovo Albanian leaders have talked about a referendum on whether Kosovo should unite with Albania.  They have also discussed the possibility of demanding reparations from Belgrade.  He urged the European Union to uphold the principle of impartiality and warned against the imposition of external timeframes, blanket solutions or putting pressure solely on Belgrade.  The Russian Federation opposes Kosovo acceding to international organizations, he added.  He said that the lack of progress in dialogue comes as no surprise, given that the internal situation in Kosovo is a never-ending litany of crises, including the recent elections in which many pro-Serbian candidates were unable to run.  Welcoming the work of the Hague special chambers on war crimes, crimes against humanity and trafficking in human organs, he said that all perpetrators must be duly punished, including those connected to the Kosovo Liberation Army.  He reiterated that the province is facing many chronic problems, including corruption and organized crime.  Kosovo is also turning into a hotbed of militant Islam, which is having a harmful effect on neighbouring countries, as seen by the terrorist attack in Vienna in November 2020.  The protection of Serb religious and cultural heritage remains a pressing issue, he said, underscoring the responsibility of the Kosovo Force (KFOR) led by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX).  He went on to emphasize the Russian Federation’s support for maintaining UNMIK at its current budget and staffing levels, adding that all challenges facing the province should be reflected in the Secretary-General’s next report.  The situation remains unstable and requires the international community’s constant attention, he added.

The representative of the United Kingdom praised the people and authorities of Kosovo for the smooth conduct of their recent elections, the formation of a new government and the meaningful involvement of women, which “shows just how far Kosovo has come” in recent decades.  Recognizing challenges facing Serb candidates in the election, which were also reflected in the United Kingdom’s election monitoring mission, he called on the Kosovo authorities to take steps to address them.  The new government’s popular mandate now offers a chance to make further progress on critical issues, such as the European Union transition, he said, urging both sides to remain engaged in the bloc’s facilitated dialogue process.  They should also work together to ensure justice for all the victims of the 1998-1999 conflict, and to identify missing persons, and all leaders should refrain from inflammatory rhetoric that is disrespectful and harmful to the families of victims.  Pointing out that conditions on the ground today are completely different from the time of UNMIK’s establishment, he said it is therefore time for a review of the Mission’s mandate and responsibilities.

The representative of the United States also applauded the conduct of free and transparent elections in Kosovo, which reflect the will of the population and its support for crucial reforms.  He looked forward to working closely with Kosovo on shared priorities, including increasing Government transparency and accountability, fostering economic development and normalizing relations with Serbia.  He voiced the United States full support for the European Union-facilitated dialogue, declaring:  “Progress has been made by the parties, though you might not be able to tell it from the meeting this morning.”  In that regard, he recalled that, in September 2020, leaders from the two sides met in the United States to discuss further efforts towards normalization.  He encouraged the parties to approach dialogue programmatically and comprehensively.  Noting that UNMIK has long since fulfilled its original purpose, he said it should now move towards closure, and urged Council members to “sunset the Mission”.

The representative of India, expressing support for Serbia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, said all outstanding issues must be resolved through peaceful negotiations.  Welcoming the multiple rounds of European Union-facilitated talks between Belgrade and Pristina on financial claims and property, he hoped that both sides will continue engaging in good faith and fully implement already signed agreements — including on the establishment of the Association of Serb-majority Municipalities in Kosovo.  The issue of missing persons is an important humanitarian matter, and their fate should be determined by the authorities with support from UNMIK.  The Mission should also, together with other international presences, encourage Pristina to address the problems of all communities.

The representative of Mexico, expressing support for UNMIK and for the European Union mediation efforts, called on the parties to make dialogue the vehicle for resolving the final status of the region of Kosovo in accordance with resolution 1244 (1999).  Any peace process must include the full and effective participation of women, he said, adding that any politically acceptable solution should make it possible for the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) to ensure the return of displaced persons alongside reintegration and reconciliation programmes in Kosovo and the wider Balkans.  He also called on the parties to avoid any actions that would increase tensions and to work towards a peaceful solution that will ensure respect for minority groups and maintain peace and stability in the region.

The representative of Kenya commended UNMIK for its critical role and welcomed its continued constructive engagement with Pristina and Belgrade, as well as multiple approaches to engaging communities.  Also praising the work being done to stem the spread of COVID-19, he urged the international community to continue supporting those efforts including by ensuring vaccine availability for all.  He went on to welcome the successful 14 February parliamentary elections in Kosovo, which were conducted despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, and took note of the high rate of participation by women and youth.  Voicing support for the European Union-facilitated dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina, he agreed with the Secretary-General that lasting peace, stability and socioeconomic development in Kosovo and across the region are contingent on its sustained progress, aimed at normalizing relations.

The representative of Niger called on Belgrade and Pristina to do all they can to create conditions favourable to the normalization of relations.  He welcomed measures taken to promote the women, peace and security agenda, including those which target the full and effective participation of women in peace processes.  He similarly praised efforts to ensure the participation of young people.  Going forward, the two sides should demonstrate constructive political engagement and strengthen confidence-building measures to promote peace and lasting stability, he added.

The representative of Estonia praised UNMIK’s support for the participation of women in decision-making processes, as well as for its youth initiatives, its fight against gender-based violence and its work in addressing challenges caused by COVID-19.  Now that all institutions in Kosovo have been formed, the European Union-facilitated Belgrade-Pristina dialogue should continue without delay.  He encouraged Serbia and Kosovo to engage more with civil society, especially women and young people, and urged them both to advance on their European paths.  That will require progress on reforms, guided by the Stabilization and Association Agreement and the European Reform Agenda, and regional cooperation.  Underlining the need to strengthen the rule of law, in particular the fight against corruption and organized crime, he said Kosovo has shown continued commitment to the Specialist Chambers.  Full cooperation with those institutions remains essential, he stressed, pointing out that the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) maintained its operational capability and continued its monitoring and advising as well as operational activities even during the pandemic.

The representative of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines agreed with other speakers that UNMIK and the United Nations Kosovo team continue to play a vital role, including by addressing the challenges posed by the pandemic.  Reiterating the importance of encouraging women’s full, equal and meaningful participation in all aspects of the political process, she welcomed the high level of participation of women and youth in the recent elections and higher proportion of female deputies, which exceeds the established 30 per cent quota.  Emphasizing that normalizing relations between Belgrade and Pristina is critical for stability in the region, she encouraged the parties to resume talks under the European Union-facilitated dialogue and implement existing agreements, while also calling for efforts to combat corruption and organized crime.

The representative of Tunisia said that his delegation is happy to see the constitutional crisis in Kosovo resolved through the elections that took place in February.  Hopefully, that will make it possible for Belgrade and Pristina to normalize relations through dialogue mediated by the European Union.  He expressed support for the work of the Special Representative of the European Union for Kosovo and welcomed meetings held in March on a new cycle of talks.  Those forthcoming discussions should make progress possible in such areas as the return of internally displaced persons and information on missing persons.  Peace in the region still depends on the willingness on parties to reach a final agreement, he said, calling on them to overcome their differences and find consensual solutions.

The representative of Ireland welcomed UNMIK’s valuable role in supporting Kosovo in addressing COVID-19-related challenges, including procuring medical supplies, equipment and expertise, and its support for the most vulnerable communities.  Spotlighting the Mission’s crucial work in promoting gender equality through the women, peace and security agenda, she also welcomed improvements in the political representation of women in Kosovo, which must now be translated into their full, equal and meaningful participation in peacebuilding — including the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue.  The Council must continue to lend its strong support to those talks, as a final, legally binding normalization agreement is essential for both Serbia and Kosovo and for wider stability across the Western Balkans.  “Now that a new government and president are in place in Kosovo, there is an opportunity for renewed momentum in dialogue,” she said, calling for concerted and sincere efforts to progress the European Union-facilitated dialogue.  Noting that COVID-19 created unprecedented challenges for Kosovo’s rule of law institutions, she strongly encouraged the government to take into account all the reform issues brought to light by the pandemic — especially those related to vulnerable groups and their access to justice.

The representative of China said that Belgrade and Pristina must work within the framework of resolution 1244 (1999) and that Serbia’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity must be fully respected.  China looks forward to the resumption of dialogue as soon as possible, he said, adding that the two sides should turn the pandemic into an opportunity.  The international community should ensure that vaccines are distributed fairly, while an extensive vaccination campaign should aim to build mutual trust among all ethnic groups.  Underscoring his country’s support for UNMIK, he called on the relevant parties to ensure the protection of its personnel and to create favourable conditions for the Mission to perform its work.

The representative of Viet Nam, Council President for April, spoke in his national capacity, saying that to ensure security and stability in Kosovo, both parties must engage in dialogue and uphold their commitments to implement their agreements.  They should push forward towards further dialogue and resolve their differences, join efforts to mitigate impacts of the pandemic and ensure the livelihood and development of all communities in Kosovo.  He encouraged UNMIK to continue to fulfil its objectives and mandates and called on the international community to continue its efforts to help Belgrade and Pristina overcome their differences and achieve peaceful, long-lasting solutions.

The representative of Serbia, taking the floor a second time, responded to Ms. Gërvalla’s assertion that 20,000 Albanian women had been raped during the conflict.  Pristina repeatedly cites that figure, yet it fails to mention victims of Serbian nationality.  Speculating about numbers does not contribute to justice being served and it slows down the reconciliation process.  Innocent victims of the conflict included Serbs, Albanians and members of other nationalities and it is important to recognize all crimes and sympathize with all victims.

Ms. Gërvalla said that everyone knows who the aggressor was in the 1990s.  She wished that Serbia and its representative would face the truth, as that is the only way that the country can move forward.

[At the start of today’s meeting, the representative of the Russian Federation questioned the presence of the flag of Kosovo behind Ms. Gërvalla, saying that it would not be permitted under the Council’s rule of procedures.  The representative of the United Kingdom said that a similar backdrop was in place when the Council last met via videoconference on Kosovo.  Following offline consultations among Council members, the representative of Viet Nam, Council President for April, announced that the Council’s virtual meetings are informal and that the backdrop could remain.]