European Union urges respect for Kosovo Specialist Chambers verdict

The European Union has called on all states and parties to respect the upcoming verdict from the Kosovo Specialist Chambers regarding four former leaders of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA). The defendants include Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Jakup Krasniqi, and Rexhep Selimi.

In a statement, the EU emphasized its support for the Specialist Chambers as an “independent judicial institution” established by the Kosovo Parliament to ensure impartial proceedings regarding allegations of serious crimes committed during and after the Kosovo conflict. The EU noted that the verdict, expected in The Hague, is a first-instance judgment and can be appealed by either the defense or the prosecution.

The call for respect comes ahead of a planned march in Pristina in support of the former KLA leaders. The EU highlighted that the work of the Chambers is vital for promoting accountability and recognizing the experiences of victims and their families across all Kosovar communities.