OSCE Mission condemns arson at Kosovo Serb houses in Klinë/Klina municipality

PRISHTINË/PRIŠTINA, 23 May 2012 – The Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, Ambassador Werner Almhofer, condemned today the arson that destroyed one Kosovo Serb’s house and seriously damaged another’s in Drenoc/Drenovac village in Klinë/Klina municipality last night.

“I strongly condemn this latest incident affecting Kosovo Serb returnees and their properties in Klinë/Klina municipality. Such incidents increase fear among already vulnerable communities and negatively impact inter-ethnic relations, which in turn compromises the return process.

“The perception of security of Kosovo Serbs in the area was already undermined following the receipt of threatening letters at the doorsteps of Kosovo Serb residents in several locations in Klinë/Klina municipality, including Drenoc/Drenovac village. Any incident affecting the security of the community must be immediately responded to and strong measures taken to prevent further incidents.

“I call on Kosovo police and institutions to take all necessary action to bring the perpetrators to justice. I urge all relevant stakeholders to reach out to the affected community and promote communication and co-operation to provide a safe environment and promote peaceful co-existence.

“I welcome the condemnation issued by the Kosovo Ministry of Internal Affairs and quick reaction by the Kosovo police in initiating an investigation. The OSCE Mission stands ready to assist Kosovo institutions to engage effectively with all communities, especially through communities protection mechanisms such as municipal offices for communities and returns and local public safety councils.”

The OSCE Mission in Kosovo is mandated with human and community rights protection and promotion, as well as democracy and public safety sector development. The Mission proactively monitors the human rights situation and works with the institutions in Kosovo to help remedy observed shortcomings.