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| Source: CNN |
After the conflicts in Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina, the ammunition in the Balkans exploded again in a small Yugoslavian province of Kosovo. This page follows analysis and news of:
Simmering Tension: President Milosevic of Yugoslavia revoking autonomy from Kosovo, and the growing tension between the Serbian government militias and the Albanian Kosovo Liberation Army guerillas (KLA).
Ultimatum: The negotiations and Rambouillet talks in hopes of resolving the conflict diplomatically.
NATO Bombardment: (March 1999) In an attempt to bring Milosevic down to his knees, NATO, unauthorized by the UN, bombed Kosovo and Yugoslavia.
Putting the Lid on a Boiling Pot: (June 1999) The entrance of UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) and NATO peacekeepers to begin the long process of rebuilding peace and democracy in Kosovo. However, the underlying tension between Serbians and Albanians remains unresolved.
Six Months: A Long Road Ahead: (December 1999) The situation in Kosovo remains volatile as fear of retributions hinders the peace process.
One Year: Mission Accomplished? (June 2000)
One year since UNMIK's entrance. Is there a ray of hope or are they still
marching in place?
From Milosevic to Kostunica: (September 2000)
The fall of the Milosevic regime signals a new beginning for Yugoslavia - or does it?
Towards Independence? Can Kosovo finally gain independence or would it remain an autonomous region in Serbia and Montenegro?
Hightlighted Documents and Articles
Lessons of War: Another Way for Kosovo? (March 6, 2000)
This daring Le Monde Diplomatique article states that the contents of the Rambouillet ultimatum and a reasonable Yugoslav parliamentary resolution were kept secret and implies that agreements were purposely wrecked by an eager-to-bomb NATO.
CIA Aided Kosovo Guerrilla Army All Along (March 12, 2000)
The Sunday Times reports of a gigantic link between the US government and the KLA dating back to the origin of the conflict.
Report of the Secretary-General on UNMIK (December 15, 2000)
Towards Independence?
Council Members Regret "Stalemate" in Installation of Kosovo's Newly Elected Institutions (January 21, 2001)
A UN Press Release outlines developments in Kosovo following the elections which failed to produce one party with the necessary majority to form a non-coalition government. UN diplomats stress the necessity to respect minority rights to establish a peaceful and multicultural Kosovo.
Steiner to Face Rocky Road in Troubled Kosovo (January 21, 2002)
UN Secretary General Kofi Annan appoints veteran German diplomat Michael Steiner as the new UN administrator of Kosovo, replacing Hans Haekkerup. (Associated Press)
UN's Kosovo Chief Resigns (December 28, 2001)
Hans Haekkerup, the UN special representative for UNMIK, resigns from his post for personal reasons after a year of tenure. Haekkerup's departure coincides with stalled attempts to elect a president in the Kosovo Parliament. (BBC News)
Kosovo Launches Historic Parliament (December 10, 2001)
The UN special representative, Hans Haekkerup, opened Kosovo's first multi-ethnic parliamentary assembly by inviting nominations for the seven-member presidency of the assembly. However, members of the former Kosovo Liberation Army staged a brief walkout, after their leader, Hashim Thaci, was denied the floor. (BBC News)
The Kosovo Formula (November 23, 2001)
As delegates negotiate for the future of Afghanistan, the successful general election in Kosovo is evidence that the combination of UN-led, NATO-policed nation-building effort backed by multilateral aid and patience is workable. (Washington Post )
Kosovo: Landmark Election (November 21, 2001)
A report by the International Crisis Group on the establishment of new self-government institutions in Kosovo following the election for a new Assembly on 17 November 2001. The report raises concerns about the strained relations between UNMIK and the Albanian parties following UNMIK's agreement with Belgrade to obtain support for Serb participation
Kosovo: Self-government Begins at Home (November 23, 2001)
Albanian leader Ibrahim Rugova, whose Democratic League of Kosovo, claimed victory in recent elections affirms that "Kosovo is ready for independence today or tomorrow". The international community, however, is urging the new government to first tackle Kosovo's economic problems and crack down on crime. (Institute for War & Peace Reporting )
Serb Turnout in Kosovo Vote Seen as an Encouraging Step (November 20, 2001)
The Kosovo elections held on November 17, 2001, saw a larger Serb turnout than originally envisaged in the Albanian dominated province. The Serbian minority is expected to wield some real power in the provincial government after securing 21 of the assembly's 120 seats. (New York Times)
Moderates Ahead in Landmark Kosovo Election (November 18, 2001)
The Associated Press reports on Kosovo's first election since NATO action. Voters chose a moderate leader but also gave a boost to a party headed by a former ethnic Albanian rebel chief.
Yugoslav Urges UN Help Stabilize (November 14, 2001)
In the first address at the General Assembly since the breakup of Yugoslavia, President Kostunica asks the UN to provide more support for handling stability problems, including the situation in Kosovo. (Associated Press)
Kosovo Albanians Denounce UN-Serb Deal (November 6, 2001)
Albanian leaders denounced the joint statement signed between the UN mission in Kosovo and Belgrade. The deal is designed to reassure Kosovo Serbs that the province will remain part of Yugoslavia after the November 17 election. (Reuters)
Yugoslav Leaders, UN Agree on Serbs (November 5, 2001)
Yugoslav authorities and the UNMIK signed an agreement to improve security and living conditions for minority Serbs in the region. This move is meant to encourage Kosovo Serbs in the ethnic Albanian-majority province to vote in the November 17 elections.(Associated Press)
UN Kosovo Chief in New Bid to Reach Deal on Elections (November 3, 2001)
UN administrator Hans Haekkerup keeps calling on leaders in Belgrade to encourage the Serb population in Kosovo to participate in the November 17 elections in the predominantly ethnic Albanian province.(Kathimerini)
UN Official Calls on Serbs to Participate in Kosovo Vote (October 26, 2001)
UN officials want Yugoslav authorities to persuade Kosovo-Serbs to vote in the Kosovo elections on November 17, 2001. However, the Yugoslav government fears that Serbian participation in the elections may be interpreted as a move towards an independent Kosovo.(Associated Press)
Kostunica Tells Bush Why Serbs Can't Vote (October 19, 2001)
In a letter addressed to President Bush, Yugoslav President Vojislav Kostunica stressed the deteriorating situation in Kosovo. "He also said UN activity there leaves much to be desired." (United Press International)
BETA Views Main Players in Kosovo Elections, Situation in FYROM (October 3, 2001)
Belgrade BETA, an independent Belgrade press agency, provides a statistical summary on the current electoral process in Kosovo including updates on the work of the UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK).
Kosovo Assault 'Was Not Genocide' (September 7, 2001)
The UN-supervised Supreme Court of Pristina ruled that "exactions committed by Milosevic's regime cannot be qualified as criminal acts of genocide, since their purpose was not the destruction of the Albanian ethnic group... but its forceful departure from Kosovo". This decision may have implications on Milosevic's fate. (BBC)
Serb Minister Demands Resignation of UN Administrator in Kosovo (August 9, 2001)
The UN's turbulent relations with Yugoslavia have taken another downturn, with a top Serbian official demanding the resignation of Hans Haekerup, the UN's chief administrator in Kosovo. (Associated Press)
Balkan Hangover (July 5, 2001)
Former Yugoslav President Slobodan Milosevic is safely behind bars in the Hague, but his legacy of conflict and ethnic hatred continues to destabilize the Balkans. His extradition has created a constitutional crisis in Serbia, which may lead to a power struggle between Yugoslav President Vojislav Kostunica and Serbian Prime Minister Zoran Djindjic. (Economist)
Rebel Chief Worked for UN Funded Force in Kosovo (July 5, 2001)
The UN and NATO may be unknowingly funding a war that they are trying to prevent. Rumors abound that senior members of the UN-funded Kosovo Protection Corps have been leading rebellions in neighboring Macedonia. (Irish Times)
A Decade of Bloodshed in the Balkans (June 28, 2001)
Ethnic conflict in the Balkans has now come full circle. Ten years ago, rioting by Slav nationalists led to the first of four Balkan wars. Violent rioting in Skopje, Macedonia this past week suggests that a fifth is inevitable. (Independent)
In Balkans, Shifting ‘Bad Guy' Role (June 27, 2001)
Many Western diplomats feel that ethnic Albanian rebels—the victims in the Kosovo conflict—have assumed the role of the aggressor in Macedonia. These diplomats feel betrayed by the Albanians for exacerbating tensions in the already unstable region. (Christian Science Monitor)
From War to Peace (June 26, 2001)
The upcoming general elections in Kosovo are a step towards sovereignty for the Yugoslav province. Although the UN will maintain control over security and justice, Kosovar Albanians will assume the day-to-day administration of Kosovo. (London Times)
Situation in Kosovo Complex and Volatile (June 19, 2001)
Security Council President Anwarul Chowdhury presented his report of the recent Council mission to the Balkans. The Council is still divided about the future of UN-administered Kosovo. (Relief Web)
Putin Urges Disarming of Rebels in Kosovo (June 17, 2001)
Russian President Vladimir Putin says that Kosovo is the main cause of instability in the Balkans. A traditional ally of Serbia, Russia remains worried that NATO and the UN are paving the way for Kosovo's independence. (New York Times)
UN Security Council in Kosovo (June 17, 2001)
Representatives of the Security Council travelled to Kosovo to assess the challenges facing the UN-administered province. The visit marks the first time that all 15 nations on the Council toured a conflict area together. (Associated Press)
Albanian 'Peace Deal' Controversy (May 30, 2001)
Although Macedonia's national unity government appears genuinely committed to improving the civil rights situation for its Albanian citizens, the NLA remains poised to thwart any progress towards peace and multi-ethnic stability. (Institute for War and Peace Reporting)
Police Accuse Milosevic of Covering (May 25, 2001)
The Yugoslavian authorities said former president Milosevic ordered the systematic destruction of evidence to hide the atrocities committed against Albanians in Kosovo in 1999. The accusations could lead to Milosevic's extradition to The Hague to face trial for war crimes. (Associated Press)
Yugoslav Troops Move Into Kosovo (May 24, 2001)
Now that rebels have agreed to demilitarize and surrender their weapons to NATO, Yugoslav troops moved into the last crucial part of the buffer zone separating Kosovo from the rest of the country. (Associated Press)
Yugoslavia Drafts War Crimes Law (May 23, 2001)
To enable the extradition of war crimes suspects - including Milosevic - to The Hague, Belgrade drafted a law taking into account "demands for respect of Yugoslavia's legal sovereignty and the necessary cooperation with the United Nations." (Associated Press)
UN's Kosovo Plan Endorsed (May 16, 2001)
UNMIK chief Hans Haekkerup unveiled the UN proposal for self-governing institutions for Kosovo. The plan sets November 17 as the date for elections. But both Kosovar Serbs and Albanians are unhappy about the proposal. (Reuters)
Kostunica Voices Kosovo Concerns to Annan (May 8, 2001)
The Yugoslavian president discussed with the UN Secretary General the future legal framework of Kosovo and the status of Montenegro within the Yugoslavian federation. (UPI)
Serbia and The Hague (May 5, 2001)
Despite the reluctance of officials and citizens to face the past, justice is increasingly discussed in Belgrade. Including the possible formation of a State Commission for Truth and Reconciliation and the alternative to revise the law to extradite Milosevic to The Hague. (Institute of War & Peace Reporting)
UN, Albanian Leaders Fail to Agree Kosovo Plan (May 5, 2001)
After one week of intensive talks, Hans Haekkerup and Albanian leaders failed to agree on a plan for self-government. Therefore, the elections might be postponed. (Reuters)
Milosevic Handed UN War Crimes Indictment (May 3, 2001)
Milosevic received in person the arrest warrant from the ICTY. The warrant contains a threat of sanctions if Belgrade does not hand him to The Hague promptly. (Associated Press)
After Milosevic: A Practical Agenda for Lasting Balkans Peace (April 26, 2001)
Postponing discussion on Kosovo's final status to avoid tension in the region creates tensions in itself, says the report of the International Crisis Group which suggests different alternatives for Kosovo's future.
Yugoslavia Charges 200 Over Kosovo (April 25, 2001)
The Yugoslavian army prosecutor charged 183 officers for war crimes. "We want to expose individuals for their crimes and avoid collective guilt for the entire nation," an army legal officer said. (CNN)
Serbs Suspect UN of Kosovo Sell-Out (April 24, 2001)
After the UN set up tax collection posts in the north of Kosovo, many Serbs fear the international community is preparing for Kosovo's independence from Serbia. (Institute of War and Peace Reporting)
Belgrade Court Pursues World Leaders (April 18, 2001)
To the discomfort of the new government, the Belgrade District Court issued arrest warrants to 14 Western leaders judged in absentia for war crimes during the NATO bombings. (CNN)
The Balkan Disease Isn't Cured Yet (April 15, 2001)
Is Yugoslavia in disintegration? What will happen with Kosovo if Montenegro asks for independence? The New York Times studies the role of Western countries in influencing the development of the region.
New Push for Balkans Peace (April 11, 2001)
United States, Russia, Britain, France, Germany and Italy are meeting in Paris to coordinate policies in the Balkans and to discuss the tensions in Macedonia, Kosovo, Bosnia and Montenegro, as well as the Milosevic issue. (BBC)
Milosevic's Trial and 'Selective Justice' (April 9, 2001)
Noam Chomsky criticizes a possible trial of Milosevic at The Hague, since the court excluded crimes committed by NATO and indicted the former head of Yugoslavia during the bombings. (Reuters)
UN Demands Milosovic Transfer (April 4, 2001)
The UN war crimes tribunal urges Serbian authorities to immediately surrender Milosevic to The Hague. If Yugoslavia refuses to fulfill its obligation, Del Ponte could ask the UN Security Council to impose sanctions. (Associated Press)
Admissions by Milosevic Should Speed His Trial, Bosnia Says (April 4, 2001)
The fact that Milosevic admitted he channeled state funds to Serbian forces fighting wars in Croatia and Bosnia in the 1990's, should facilitate his prosecution either in Serbia or in The Hague. (New York Times)
Yugoslav Chief Says Milosevic Shouldn't Be Sent to The Hague (April 3, 2001)
The arrest of Milosevic does not mean his transfer to the ICTY: War crimes will be investigated, but before domestic courts, says Kustonica. Nevertheless, as a UN member, Yugoslavia has to turn him over to The Hague, reply ICTY officials.(New York Times)
A Wider Debate About the Role of Milosevic (April 2, 2001)
Arrested by the Serbian justice on corruption basis, Milosevic will probably be indicted for more serious crimes, perhaps in The Hague.(New York Times
UN Milosevic Indictments Almost Set (April 2, 2001)
In addition to the arrest warrant already issued against Milosevic on charges regarding Kosovo, the ICTY will issue soon new indictments for war crimes in Bosnia and Croatia. (Associated Press)
US Set to Finesse Tribunal Issue and Allow Belgrade Aid (March 29, 2001)
The United States is ready to certify that Yugoslavia is cooperating with the ICTY, thereby securing the US economic aid to the country, says the New York Times. The certification will probably be accompanied by a statement criticizing Yugoslavia for not cooperating enough with the tribunal.
The ICTY to Investigate Crimes Committed by Albanians (March 21, 2001)
After a meeting with Serbian authorities, Carla Del Ponte announced she would investigate alleged atrocities committed by Albanians. Yugoslav officials promised to examine internal laws in order to extradite criminals such as Milosevic.(Associated Press)
Self-Rule for Kosovo if Kosovars Keep the Peace (March 21, 2001)
This editorial of the Washington Post analyzes the consequences of the current violence and the rise of extremism among new Albanian leaders on Kosovar autonomy in Serbia and Macedonia.
UN Envoy Says Country Is Close to the Precipice (March 19, 2001)
As the Security Council condemns violence in the Macedonian border, the UN envoy to the Balkans, Carl Bildt, expresses his concern about the growing civil war in Tetovo.(Guardian)
What to do with Milosevic? (March 13, 2001)
Trial at home versus trial in The Hague. BBC analyzes the two alternatives and their implications, like the conditionality of US foreign aid
West Scrambles to Keep Balkans Stable (March 13, 2001)
Since Milosevic is not in power any more and a UN resolution has established a substantial autonomy for Kosovo, the stability of the region is in NATO's hands. But does NATO want to play this role? (New York Times)
Security Council Condemns Violence by Ethnic Albanians (March 8, 2001)
Describing the events occurring in Macedonia as a threat for the stability and the security of the region, the Council condemned recent violence. (M2 Presswire)
Yugoslav Parliament Passes Amnesty for Jailed Kosovars (February 27, 2001)
To ease peace and reconciliation, the Serbian parliament passed an amnesty law feeing hundreds of Kosovo Albanians in jail since 1999. (New York Times)
UN Police Come under Attack (February 14, 2001)
Hundred of Serbs attacked UN police in Kosovo after an assault on a UN escorted convoy ended in the killing of a Serbian.(BBC)
Justice, not Revenge in Kosovo (February 13, 2001)
The Times of London publishes a call for justice in Kosovo and calls on UNMIK not to allow a victors' revenge to take place.
Serbs protest NATO, UN Special Plans for Kosovo (February 10, 2001)
Concerned for their security, thousands of Serbs protested against the agreement signed between Albanians, the UN and NATO calling for an extension of the "confidence zone" in Mitrovica. (Reuters)
Kosovo Newspaper Sees Clash of Albanian, UNMIK Interests in Mitrovica (February 3, 2001)
When it comes to democratization, Albanian Kosovars and international authorities are in disagreement: an Albanian source compained that "UNMIK was allowing the Serbs to maintain parallel authorities, in defiance of UN Security Council Resolution 1244."(Gazeta e Re)
New Conflict Threatens Balkans (February 1, 2001)
The Christian Science Monitor gives a general background of the emerging conflict in Serbia's Presevo region, which neighbors Kosovo.
Having a Vote In Kosovo Is Requiring Determination (February 1, 2001)
One of the largest problems the new UN administrator, Hans Haekkerup, has to confront is setting the timing of legislative elections. UNMIK faces a dilemma between holding quick elections or ‘perfect' ones. (New York Times)
Kostunica Warns of Fresh Fighting (January 29, 2001)
The Yugoslav government says that a resurgence of violence between Serbs and ethnic Albanians is threatening stability in Serbia, and demands an urgent United Nations Security Council meeting to discuss the actions of ethnic Albanian guerrillas in Southern Serbia.(BBC)
Hague Tribunal Prosecutor Carla Del Ponte Storms Out of Meeting with President Kostunica (January 24, 2001)
To Del Ponte's chagrin, the Yugoslav leadership continues to oppose the extradition of Milosevic, a position supposed by most Yugoslavs. But the government is split over the question of what charges should be brought against their former leader in a Serbian court. (Institute for War & Peace Reporting)
Haekkerup Takes on Tough Task at Kosovo's Helm (January 15, 2001)
"My job is to create a secure environment, but that might take some time yet," admits Hans Haekkerup, the new UN administrator in Pristina, who will have to get rid of Kosovo's endemic problems of ethnic violence and organized crime, and to make possible the return of non-Albanians. (Agence France Presse)
Kostunica Turns Down Meeting with UN War Crimes Prosecutor (January 15, 2001)
Because, he says, the ICTY "represents more a political institution than a judicial one," Kostunica refuses to receive the ICTY Prosecutor, Carla Del Ponte, on the pretext that she is not important enough to fit into his busy schedule. (Agence France Presse)
Milosevic Trial: Home or Away? (January 10, 2001)
The new Yugoslav government has argued that the trial of Slobodan Milosevic must occur in Belgrade. But although Yugoslavia is now suggesting that a Belgrade trial could involve the Hague tribunal, Gabriel Partos of the BBC argues that Milosevic must be tried outside Serbia.
From Milosevic to Kostunica
Picture Credit: Jillian Edelstein, New York Times |
Kosovo Still Seethes as UN Official Nears Exit (December 18, 2000)
Bernard Kouchner tells the Washington Post of UNMIK's successes and failures during his tenure, and says that future UN peacekeeping missions worldwide must make sure to have adequately trained police officers, judges and prosecutors.
Belgrade Awaits UN Response Over Clearing Rebels Out of Serbia (December 17, 2000)
The Yugoslavian government, soon to meet with the UN Security Council, says that an offensive by Albanian rebels in the Presevo Valley is coming soon, and that UNMIK and KFOR must prevent it from occurring. (Agence France Presse)
Hans Haekkerup, a Danish Proconsul for Kosovo (December 16, 2000)
The soon-to-be head of UNMIK is very different from his dynamic (but sometimes criticized) predecessor, says the Economist, and is a good choice for the job. He may also be the best person to convince the US to stay in Kosovo.
Belgrade Wants UN Security Council to Meet on Kosovo Flare-Up (November 27, 2000)
Trouble continues to brew on the border between Kosovo and Serbia, and Kostunica accuses UNMIK of failing to do its job by allowing Albanian paramilitaries into the border's buffer zone. (Agence France Presse)
Keep After Milosevic, UN Prosecutor Urges World (November 22, 2000)
The UN's chief war crimes prosecutor is suspicious of the new Yugoslav president's hesitancy to hand over Slobodan Milosevic, and says that there is "no alternative" to his international trial. (Reuters)
Kosovo Serb Councils Sworn In By Kouchner (November 20, 2000)
As an "interim measure… until a day when democratic elections could take place," UNMIK has appointed councils in Serbian towns that boycotted last month's Kosovar municipal election. (Agence France Presse)
Kosovo's Kouchner to Quit (November 17, 2000)
The head of UNMIK will leave his post when the Secretary General finds a replacement. Kouchner has endorsed Paddy Ashdown, former leader of Britain's Liberal Democratic Party, to succeed him. (BBC)
UN and US Call for Parliamentary Elections in Kosovo (November 16, 2000)
Bernard Kouchner would like Kosovo to move quickly towards greater autonomy, recommending to the Security Council that parliamentary elections be held as soon as possible. While the US agrees, other member states prefer a slower approach. (Agence France Presse)
Kosovo Serbs to Participate in UN-Run Municipal Polls (November 1, 2000)
After the Kosovo municipal election was boycotted by Serbs, Kouchner offers by-elections to the Kosovar Serb community to elect Serb representatives. Meanwhile, Kostunica proposes talks with Rugova on the future of Kosovo. (Agence France Presse)
Moderate Party Wins Kosovo Municipal Elections (October 30, 2000)
In elections that Kofi Annan calls "a landmark in Kosovo's democratic development", Ibrahim Rugova's Democratic League of Kosovo wins most municipalities. Serbs boycott the elections, and the new Yugoslavian president questions their legitimacy. (Associated Press)
Kostunica Acknowledges Kosovo Genocide (October 24, 2000)
Interviewed on an American television program, the new Yugoslavian president answers the questions carefully. He does say that Milosevic was "among those responsible" for Serb crimes against humanity, and says that Milosevic will stand trial "somewhere". (Reuters)
US Troop Pullout from Kosovo Would Be Premature: UN, UNHCR, OSCE (October 23, 2000)
Kouchner and others warn the Americans that now is not the time for a decline in the international military presence in Kosovo. (Agence France Presse)
Give Kosovo Independence or Face Fresh Conflict, UN is Told (October 23, 2000)
The Independent International Commission on Kosovo advocates "conditional independence" for Kosovo, and recommends that the UN General Assembly draft a framework for future humanitarian interventions. (Guardian)
Bush Would End US Role in Balkan
Peacekeeping (October 22, 2000)
Not just a comment on the US Republican foreign policy on Kosovo, but the
terminology of the article shows the often mis-used term 'peacekeeping'. (New
York Times/Reuters)
UN, Yugoslav Leader to Discuss
Kosovo in Zagreb (October 18, 2000)
Bernard Kouchner sees the Balkan summit next month as an opportunity to bring
up the future of Kosovo with the new Yugoslavian leadership. (Reuters)
UN Envoy Urges Continued International
Engagement (October 9, 2000)
Kouchner says it is no secret that Albanians want independence, warning that
to try and solve the final status of Kosovo now could lead anew to open conflict.
He advocates accelerating the process of defining substantial autonomy for
Kosovo. (UN News)
From Milosevic to the Future
(October 9, 2000)
The roots of Milosevic's demise can be traced to the frustration of the American
and British governments and NATO, according to this analysis from Stratfor.
War Crimes Court President
Wants Milosevic (October 8, 2000)
With Milosevic admitting defeat in the Yugoslav elections, he will now be
pursued to face the war crimes tribunal at the Hague. (Reuters)
Still Pretty Nasty (September
23-29, 2000)
The question of Kosovo becoming its own state. The UN, NATO and the Organisation
for Security and Co-operation in Europe, have been "struggling against
mounting odds to maintain a minimum of stability and open political debate.
(Economist)
One Year: Mission Accomplished?
UN Tries to Calm Protests (August
17, 2000)
Kouchner, head of the UN administration in Kosovo, takes pains to justify
the closure of a lead smelter. According to him, the purpose is to reduce
emissions, not to leave the decreasing Serb population without jobs. (Associated
Press)
Kosovo People Must End Violence Themselves: UN, KFOR (August 8, 2000)
Médecins Sans Frontií¨res refuses to continue its operation where the basic protection of ethnic minorities is not guaranteed by the military and civilian administration in Kosovo. The clear declaration by the humanitarian organization is an embarrassment for Bernard Kouchner, the UN mission chief in Kosovo. (Agence France Presse)
The Reluctant Imperialist (August 6, 2000)
Bernard Kouchner, UN mission chief in Kosovo, has a reputation as a terrible administrator. Yet with his keen awareness of politics in humanitarianism, he has brought about some achievements in a place where even "coexistence" among different ethnicities seems like a distant goal.(New York Times)
Serbs Scared Away from Kosovo Polls by Belgrade's Terror Tactics (July 25, 2000)
The Organization of Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), which is responsible for the municipal election in Kosovo, closed the registration process of the voters. With less than 1% of Kosovar Serbians registered, could this be called a fair election? (Independent)
UN Sees Financial Troubles Deepen (July 14, 2000)
With no foreign aid, Yugoslavia is sinking in debt. Even if the situation normalizes, it will take at least 15 years to regain the living standard to what it was before the NATO bombings. (Washington Times)
A Year of Small Gains For UN Chief in Kosovo ; Kouchner Persists Against Balkans Hatreds (July 18, 2000)
Mr. Kouchner, head of the UN Interim Mission in Kosovo, reflects his year of trying to bring peace in a Kosovo, where "hatred [runs] deeper than anywhere [else] in the world." (International Herald Tribune)
Kosovo Party Ends Freeze Of Ties With UN (July 18, 2000)
"After the free elections, there will be a new reality," says Hashim Thaci, an Albanian leader who has resumed cooperation with the UN interim administration in Kosovo. (Reuters )
Russia Opposes Elections in Kosovo (July 14, 2000)
"The ethnic and the political picture in Kosovo" will be distorted by a Serbian boycott if the municipal election is held during the current deteriorating security situation, says the Russian Ambassador to the UN. (Associated Press )
Montenegro May Break From Yugoslavia (July 7, 2000)
Yugoslavia is approaching the boiling point again. The recent Yugoslav constitution amendment further tightened Milosevic's grip of power. Serious discussion on whether to risk independence from Yugoslavia is rumbling in Montenegro. (Associated Press)
Albanian Leader Bolts UN Council (July 4, 2000)
The deal between the UN and the Serbs for protecting minorities has backfired. The Albanian leader, Hashim Thaci, left the discussions claiming that the deal is a dangerous "first step toward dividing Kosovo into ethnic regions." ( Associated Press /New York Times)
Serb Opposition May Win an Observer Seat in the UN (July 4, 2000)
Although the UN envoy from Milosevic's Yugoslavia was banned from the UN Security Council, the representatives from the Serbian opposition may be able to hold an observer seat at the UN. (United Press International)
UN Official Warns of Losing the Peace in Kosovo (July 3, 2000)
Mr. McNamara, the director of UN emergency relief in Kosovo, is concerned that governments "dump problems [like Kosovo]...onto the UN to avoid responsibility," and gives only half-hearted support to solving them. (New York Times)
Kosovo Serbs Split Despite Agreement on Cooperation with UN (June 30, 2000)
The Serb National Council (SNV) agreed with the UN mission (UNMIK) to increase security for Serbs. However, observers worry that personal rivalries and political differences among the Serb leaders could weaken the Serbian solidarity in Kosovo.
(Agence France Presse )
Kouchner Supports 1974 Kosovo Autonomy(June 28, 2000)
The head of the UN mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) is in favor of Kosovo autonomy as illustrated in Yugoslavia's 1974 constitution. Most Albanians however, being moderate and radical, do not believe that autonomy of any kind under Serbs or Milosevic is possible. ( United Press International )
Yugoslav Envoy Slams USA for Exclusion from UN Security Council Debate (June 24, 2000)
Ousted by the UN Security Council, Ambassador Jovanovic of Yugoslavia warned the US and the UN that without cooperation with Yugoslavia, no real peace or stability will be achieved in Southern Europe. (BBC)
US Seeks Envoy's Ouster (June 23, 2000)
After the standoff between Russia and the US over the participation of Yugoslav envoys in the UN Security Council, Amb. Holbrooke of the US intensified the campaign to kick Milosevic's Yugoslavia out of the UN. He said Yugoslavia must reapply as a new UN member. (Washington Post)
Russian Walks Out of UN Council (June 23, 2000) After the decision to bar Yugoslav envoys from participating in UN Security Council deliberations, the Russian Ambassador walked out of the meeting, stating that the decision created a "very dangerous precedent" to isolate a state form participating because of political reasons. (Associated Press )
Russia Abstains as Council Extends NATO and UN Missions in Bosnia
(June 21, 2000)
Russia abstained in protest of Yugoslavia's exclusion from the Bosnia's Peace Implementation Council. Russia argued that Yugoslavia's isolation would have "very serious consequences for the entire Balkan region and international efforts to stabilize the situation." (Associated Press). Link to UN Press Release SC/6880for more information.
More Peacekeeping Force Soldiers Fall Ill in Kosovo (June 19, 2000)
A Yugoslav source revealed disturbing news that many NATO peacekeepers in Kosovo are falling ill from the chemical and nuclear radiation caused by the NATO bombings. (Xinhua)
UN Mission In Kosovo Criticized (June 12, 2000)
A senior Chinese leader and Yugoslavia's President Milosevic jointly criticized the UN for tolerating the "genocide" against non-Albanians in Kosovo, and the US for pressuring the international community to isolate Yugoslavia. (Washington Post/ Associated Press )
Vote for Chaos: Early Elections in Kosovo are Just a Way for the West to Cut and Run (June 13, 2000)
As the UN plans to hold municipal elections in Kosovo in late 2000, critics argue that Kosovo is still socially and economically incapable of sustaining a democracy. Consolidation of democracy is a gradual process, and Kosovo cannot magically transform itself overnight following the schedule set by the international community. ( The Guardian (London) )
Kosovo UN Chief: 10 More Years (June 10, 2000)
Dr. Kouchner, the UN chief in Kosovo, told the UN Security Council that UN and NATO would need to stay ten more years to ensure peace in Kosovo. The Russian Ambassador to the UN however, warned of a "dangerous trend" of Kosovo separating from Yugoslavia. (United Press International )
Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (June 6, 2000)
A detailed report by the UN Secretary General concerning the situation in Kosovo, one year after the withdrawal of all Serbian troops. He reports that although there are some improvements, the overall security situation in Kosovo remains "fragile." (UN Secretary General Report S/2000/538)
Kosovo Serbs Go to UN to Seek New Resolution (June 6, 2000)
A delegation from the Serbian National Council will urge the UN Security Council to consider solutions guaranteeing the rights of the Kosovo Serbs and the safe return of Serb refugees.
(United Press International)
U.N. Mission in Kosovo Sees Need to Engage Serbia in Discussions (June 5, 2000)
A day after a group of Serbs protested about the lack of guarantee of their security by NATO in Kosovo, the spokeswoman for UN Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) expressed the need for communicating deeper with the Serbs in the Yugoslavian government. (Deutsche Presse-Agentur )
Six Months: A Long Road Ahead
UN, Serb Protesters Negotiate After Kosovo Grenade Attack (May 29, 2000)
As more citizens are injured from clashes between Serbians and Albanians, the UN police force, KFOR peacekeeping force and Serbian protestors held talks on Saturday to address the situation.(Agence France Presse)
Envoys Say UN is Doing OK in Kosovo (April 30, 2000)
Despite a recent clash between French peacekeepers and Serbs, a UN diplomatic mission in Kosovo stated that they would recommend that the Security Council renew a resolution governing Kosovo. (Chicago Tribune/Associated Press)
Kosovo Serb Leader Plans First Refugee Return (April 25, 2000)
The proposed return of 1,000 -1,500 Serb refugees out of an estimated 200,000 that fled the province following post-war attacks by ethnic Albanians, will be the first migration of Serbs back into Kosovo. The UN is cautioning against a larger return as the area is still greatly unstable. (Reuters)
NATO Finds Rocket Launchers in Kosovo Flashpoint (March 27, 2000)
French peacekeepers have found several kinds of dangerous weaponry in uninhabited houses in the divided town of Mitrovica, the Kosovan town with the biggest Serbian urban population remaining. (Reuters)
French Colonel Faces Charges of Passing Kosovo Documents (March 26, 2000)
A French colonel was arrested for leaking documents that alluded to a concern amongst French peacekeepers that the chief of Kosovo's UN civilian administration, Bernard Kouchner, was biased against Serbs. (Agence France-Press)
Kosovo: A Year Later (March 23, 2000)
Princeton professor Richard Falk reflects on the situation in Kosovo a year after the NATO war.
The West Used Banned Bombs and Bullets on Yugoslavia (March 21, 2000)
Supposedly, NATO has confirmed that it used depleted uranium in ammunition and cluster bombs which violate the Geneva convention in its bombardment, causing environmental damage to Yugoslavia. The Serbian Tanjug now fears NATO will allow violence to spill over into another Serbian region.
Serb Opposition To Protest Media Crackdown (March 14, 2000)
In a show of unprecedented unity Serb opposition groups come together to protest the muzzling of independent media. (Reuters)
UAE to Keep Troops in Kosovo for Another Two Years (March 14, 2000)
Two articles - the second entitled 'Jordan's King Says Much Still To Be Done In Kosovo'. Though Kosovo is split into five sectors, there are several other countries active in Kosovo, one of them - the United Arab Emirates - extends its commitment to two more years. At the same time, the King of Jordan pays a visit. (Yugoslavia Today/Reuters)
Secret Swede Brings Peace to Yugoslavia (March 9, 2000)
With this go-between, Yugoslavia learnt about Russia's decision not to offer backup support quicker and signed a peace deal with NATO sooner than could otherwise have been expected. (BBC News)
NATO to Restore and Revamp Full Kosovo Force (February 25, 2000)
After some countries had quietly been dwindling down their troop numbers, there is a call for the numbers to be restored and maintained in order to keep the situation managable, two articles. (Reuters)
NATO Says Milosevic Incites Violence Covertly in Kosovo (February 23, 2000)
Though international troops are doing their best to keep the peace, Belgrade continues to offer aid and guidance to Serb paramilitaries in Kosovo. (New York Times)
NATO Troops Attempt to Stop March by Ethnic Albanians (February 21, 2000)
Thousands of ethnic Albanians gathered in a march to protest the potential political division of Kosovo, alleging that such a partition could affect the identity and welfare of the entire country. (Associated Press)
UN Police Fear All-Out War in Divided Kosovo Town (February 16, 2000)
Agence France Presse reports of an alarming number of weapons being smuggled into the divided town of Mitrovica, while UN troops are entangled in an increasing number of incidents.
French Peacekeepers Accused of Retreat (February 10, 2000)
French troops stationed in Kosovo to keep the peace have been subjected to attacks and have become unpopular among Kosovars who feel badly protected.(UN Wire)
Srebenica Accusations against UN Chiefs Dismissed (February 9, 2000)
The UN is accused of being responsible for massacres in Bosnia but the international tribunal prosecutors have decided against presssing charges. (Reuters)
UN Broke in Kosovo - Not Even Nordic Governments Care (February 7, 2000)
Dr. Jan Oberg, (Director, Transnational Foundation for Peace and Future Research) expresses grave concern over the lack of funding for the United Nations Mission in Kosovo, while drawing attention to the fact that no one spoke of a financial crisis during the NATO bombardment, despite the heavy cost of that campaign - a reflection of a world, ever ready to fund destruction, but unwilling to aid reconstruction.
Sex Slave Trade Thrives among Kosovo Troops (February 5, 2000)
The Times of London tells us of a shocking development in the Balkans as girls are kidnapped and sold across national boundaries into prostitution.
False Start for Kosovo Council (February 2, 2000)
A BBC News article tells us how hopes of a unification of the rival local governments of Kosovo have not yet been answered.
The Tragic Blunder in Kosovo (January 10, 2000)
James Bissett, a former Canadian ambassador to Yugoslavia, details how the NATO bombing was unjustified, a violation of international law, and, in retrospect, has clearly only served to increase humanitarian suffering in the region. (Toronto Globe and Mail)
Putting the Lid on a Boiling Pot
Failures of Peace in Kosovo (November 24, 1999)New York Times' editorial overviewing the status of Kosovo. "Unless there is a significant reining in of the international bureaucracy and greater efforts to involve the Kosovars more directly in the economy and administration, the outlook is disheartening." The Long Path Toward Reconciliation in Kosovo (October 27, 1999)
An article from Los Angeles Times by Bernard Kouchner who heads the UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo, about the gloomy vision of the stability of the Balkans which is not achieved in a quick process. A Critical Perspective on the UN and KFOR (October 3, 1999)
In this suspiciously pro-Serbian article, the limitations of the international forces in Kosovo are addressed and their legality questioned. (Transnational Foundation) UN Envoy Pushes for Kosovo Democracy (August 30, 1999)
A New York Times article about Holbrooke's meeting with the political leader of the KLA, Hashim Thaci. The envoy said, "We see progress and problems. But at least we are in a free Kosovo, and with NATO to provide security, it allows the creation of a pluralistic democracy." Yugoslavs See Grave Site as Proof NATO Fails to Protect Serbs (August 27, 1999)
"Yugoslav government blames NATO for what it called a mass killing of Serbs and to demand that the Security Council review the situation in Kosovo." (New York Times) Briefing by Secretary General's Special Envoy for the Balkans Carl Bildt (August 27, 1999) UN May Be Forced to Abandon Idea of Multiethnic Kosovo (August 26,1999)
A New York Times article that the UN administration has been forced to consider the de facto segregation of Serbian enclaves and even the temporary resettlement of Serbs to protect them. Resist the Apartheid Temptation in the Balkans (August 25, 1999)
"In the dissolution of the state of Yugoslavia, ethnic differences are not the root cause of conflict. The conflict was caused by economic decline and the desire of a few individuals to maintain or gain power at any cost. Ethnic differences were evoked and exploited to serve this end." (International Herald Tribune) Serbia Counts Cost (August 23, 1999)
Economist Intelligence Unit warns that a pending humanitarian disaster is being contributed to by West's denial of aid while Milosevic is president. UN Backs Away From US: Made Deal With KLA (August 20, 1999)
"UN administrators in Kosovo say a deal worked out with the Kosovo Liberation Army in June by State Department spokesman James P. Rubin is not binding and will undermine UN efforts to police the province." (Washington Times) Let's Look Closely Before Taking Sides in Kosovo's Politics (August 19, 1999)
"The NATO countries should avoid choosing sides and becoming too deeply involved in the fate of any faction, especially one as untested and unknown as the KLA." (Washington Post) Montenegrins, Like Kosovars, Can Afford to Wait (August 19, 1999)
"The international community's wish to establish an ethnically impartial civil society in Kosovo is politically admirable, but it is the equivalent of putting a broken egg back together." (International Herald Tribune) Balkans: We Can Help Promote Democracy in Serbia (August 12, 1999)
Washington Post article urging the Western alliance's commitmnet to achieving democracy in Yugoslavia in the aftermath of war. Kosovo: New Dawn for an Ethical Foreign Policy? (August 11, 1999)
"The success of NATO in Kosovo... to espouse a new 'moral' emphasis in foreign policy. There are important new factors affecting the conduct of international affairs, which vary in regional applicability." (Weekly Column from Oxford Analytica) Cost of NATO Damage Estimated at $29 Billion (July 23, 1999)
An independent Serbian study puts the damage caused by NATO bombings at $29 Billion, $23.2 billion of which is the estimated loss to Yugoslavia's GDP over the next ten years. (London Sunday Times) UN Counters US Criticism that It's Moving Slowly in Kosovo (July 22, 1999)
''We should focus on the work at hand rather than finger-pointing,'' Secretary General Kofi Annan said in response to US criticism that the UN is moving too slowly in Kosovo. Annan defended the UN, saying the mission in Kosovo is on schedule. (Associated Press) Pentagon Faults UN in Kosovo (July 21, 1999)
According to this Washington Post article, the Pentagon criticized the UN for dragging its feet in Kosovo. The article points out, however, that the UN has to cope without a "standing constabulary corps and so must recruit police volunteers as well as civil administrators from member nations." Some Ethical Aspects on NATO's Intervention in Kosovo (July 15, 1999)
A nice summary of the case against NATO intervention in Kosovo. Officials Gather at UN to Forge Kosovo Peace (July 2, 1999)
While18 foreign ministers and international relief officials reconfirmed their commitment to rebuild Kosovo, substantial differences and uncertainties remained, including the question whether Serbia should profit form some of the reconstruction aid. (International Herald Tribune) Analysis: UN Faces Kosovo Challenge (July 1, 1999)
This BBC Online analysis piece talks about the UN's role in Kosovo and its relationship to NATO, the EU and the OSCE. Lessons of a Past Reconstruction Effort in the Balkans (July 1, 1999)
In its attempt to turn a devestated Kosovo into a peaceful and secure territory, the UN can learn from its peacekeeping mission in Eastern Slovenia, according to this opinion piece from the International Herald Tribune.
More Archived Articles on Kosovo (covering 1998 to April 1999)
More Information on Kosovo
