OSCE-supported inter-ethnic dialogue and resource Centre opens in Kosovo

MITROVICE/MITROVICA, 30 June 2005 - Ambassador Werner Wnendt, the Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, today inaugurated the Inter-ethnic Dialogue and Resource Centre (IDRC) in Mitrovice/Mitrovica.

"The opening of this Centre shows that people understand that there is no other way but to move forward together," said Ambassador Wnendt. "I hope this Centre will contribute to mutual understanding between communities and neighbours."

The IDRC is unique in the Mitrovice/Mitrovica region of Kosovo, offering a wide range of services and logistical support for NGOs and members of all communities, including meeting space.

The Centre is the result of the efforts of the OSCE Mission and the NGOs Mitrovice/Mitrovica Initiative for NGO Support and the Multi-ethnic Children and Youth Peace Centre to develop a strong community-based multi-ethnic centre.

It will enable people and NGOs in the Mitrovice/Mitrovica region to co-operate, resolve social problems and propose social and political alternatives aimed at reconciliation among different communities.

"The IDRC will connect Mitrovica's different communities and isolated ethnic groups, and work towards harmonizing relations among those living in the region," said Elza Bitic, manager of the IRDC.

The Centre will also help local NGOs working on multi-ethnic projects to identify potential donors and create links between Kosovo-based NGOs working in the region.

The OSCE Mission helped secure financial support from external donors and will continue to support the development of civil society in Kosovo, particularly those NGOs which aim to bring communities together, increase citizen's participation in public life and offer a chance for reconciliation.