Statement by High Representative/Vice-President Federica Mogherini and Commissioner Johannes Hahn on the early legislative elections in Kosovo
Peaceful and orderly early legislative elections took place in Kosovo on 6 October 2019. The European Union looks forward to the formation of a new government as soon as the relevant procedures are completed. This is important so that Kosovo can swiftly resume work on reforms in support of economic and social development as well as rule of law, on the implementation of the EU-Kosovo Stabilisation and Association Agreement and on the EU-facilitated Dialogue with Belgrade. We expect all political actors to remain committed to these processes, which are key for Kosovo’s future, for progress on its European path, and most importantly for the benefit of the people of Kosovo and of the whole region.
At the invitation of the President of Kosovo and continuing its long-standing commitment to support Kosovo’s democratic processes, the EU deployed an Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) headed by Chief Observer Viola von Cramon-Taubadel, Member of the European Parliament. According to the Mission’s preliminary statement issued today, elections were well administered and transparent. The campaign environment was vibrant and competitive in most of Kosovo, but marred by intimidation in the Kosovo Serb areas. All the irregularities identified should be addressed by the authorities.
In the coming months, the EU EOM will submit a final report containing recommendations for future electoral processes. A decisive follow-up to address long-standing electoral shortcomings will be necessary. The EU expects all political parties to engage constructively in this process, in line with their joint declaration of April 2019. The EU stands ready to continue supporting these works.