The Embassies of France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and the United States, together with the EU Office in Kosovo, express their concern regarding attempts by political actors to restrict competition among political parties representing non-majority communities ahead of upcoming local elections on 12 October. Any such act to exclude certain communities undermines democratic principles and erodes trust in Kosovo’s institutions.

We expect the outgoing government and all political parties to refrain from further steps that could obstruct the registration of parties. All procedures must be carried out strictly in line with the rules and mandate of the Central Election Commission. At the same time, we encourage the affected parties to make full use of the Election Complaints and Appeals Panel to seek redress.