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Europe and Central Asia Dept, |
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Map courtesy of the FCO | |
Kosovo
- DFID in Kosovo: Supporting the establishment of a new state - 20 February 2008
Introduction
In the post-war years, prior to the break up of the former Soviet Union, Kosovo was an autonomous province within the former Yugoslavia. In 1989 Slobodan Milosevic, then President of Serbia, itself part of Yugoslavia, unilaterally revoked that position making Kosovo an integral part of Serbia, directly governed by the Serbian authorities in Belgrade. This led to ten years of oppressive rule and the suspension of the civil rights of the majority Albanian population, which culminated in the 1999 conflict.
Since 1999, Kosovo has been administered by the United Nations. In 2001 Kosovan authorities were established as the “Provisional Institutions of Self Government” and they took increasing responsibility for many areas of government. On 17 February 2008, Kosovo declared itself independent, although it remains under international supervision. It is one of the poorest regions in Europe, with around 45% of its people living in poverty, and 15% reckoned to be extremely poor.
More information is available from the
Foreign
and Commonwealth Office website.
Kosovo status issues
In 2005, a UN-commissioned review concluded that the post-conflict arrangement of UN administration of Kosovo was unsustainable. Two years of painstaking talks between Kosovo and Serbia followed, led by UN Special Envoy Martti Ahtisaari. These talks demonstrated that agreement between Belgrade and Pristina on the crucial issue of Kosovo’s status was out of reach. Martti Ahtisaari therefore proposed a plan for supervised independence for Kosovo. In the absence of any agreed alternative, the UK believes that this is the only viable way forward.
Kosovo’s declaration of independence commits it to implementing fully UN Special Envoy Ahtisaari’s Comprehensive Settlement Proposal, which includes extensive minority safeguards and international supervision. On 18 February, the Foreign Secretary announced that the UK would recognise Kosovo as a sovereign, independent state. The new state’s constitution came into force on 15 June 2008. The EU has agreed a range of political and practical assistance to Kosovo: deploying a police and rule of law mission and Special Representative; and assisting with economic and political development.
What are the challenges for Kosovo?
- Reduce high levels of poverty and unemployment;
- Manage political instability and the risk of conflict;
- Develop more effective and accountable government;
- Realise the opportunity of joining the European Union.
What is DFID doing in Kosovo?
DFID was one of the first donors present in Kosovo after the conflict in 1999. Initially we provided emergency assistance, but over time our programme has changed with the changing needs of Kosovo. In February 2008, the Prime Minister pledged up to £23 million in aid for Kosovo over the next three years . Current priorities include:
- Promoting higher levels of economic growth and employment, for example through improving the investment climate in Kosovo;
- Working with the
(1.2 mb);
- Helping the Government decide how best to organise and staff its civil service so its ministries and departments are fit for purpose;
- Supporting the Government and working with the
We work closely with a number of donors in Kosovo, supporting better coordination and increased effectiveness of overseas assistance. Key partners include:
Links
- Kosovo Fact sheet
Last updated: 09 July 2008
