KOSOVO

Kosovo is the main pillar of CSSP’s Integrative Mediation efforts. Our efforts focus on strengthening existing conflict resolution mechanisms, mediation at the local level, conflict prevention activities, and negotiation and mediation workshops. Our strategy evolves as the political environment changes with the clarification of the status.

OSCE and UNMIK have been instrumental in facilitating our activities in several municipalities in Kosovo. Our projects focus on the municipalities of Rahovec / Orahovac, Štrpce / Shtërpcë, and Ferizaj / Uroševac. Last year we worked with local leaders on increasing dialogue, on building their capacities to problem-solving and rebuilding political relationships. Specifically we are involved in improving an interethnic dialogue on the return process of refugees to Ferizaj/ Uroševac and relationship-building in Rahovec/Orahovac.

In 2008, we will induce an Integrative Mediation process in the municipalities of Obiliq / Obilić, Deçan / Dečani, which are both symbolic for Kosovo. The former was one of the places where Kosovo Serbs were attacked in the 17 March 2004 riots while the latter has a special significance for the Serbian Orthodox Church.

In addition to Obiliq / Obilić and Deçan / Dečani, CSSP will support dialogue in Serb majority areas where Kosovo Albanians are in the minority and have difficulties integrating.