Newsroom
Violence undermining democracy in Kosovo
PRISTINA 16 February 2001
PRISTINA, 16 February 2001 - The OSCE Head of Mission, Ambassador Daan Everts, has expressed extreme dismay at the attack on Serbian buses returning to Kosovo, the worst incident in an increasing spate of violence across the region.
"We have spent the last 18 months working hard to create a more democratic and tolerant climate," said Ambassador Everts. "But this violence is undermining all our efforts. It has not only taken the lives of innocent people - it harms all the people of Kosovo."
Attempts to restore confidence and create conditions for peaceful co-existence are shattered by such acts of terrorism, he said.
"People in Kosovo and their political leaders have to show that they are serious about embracing democracy and civil society. They have to take a stronger stance against extremism. And they should actively help in tracing those who carried out this unforgivable act," Everts said.
For further information, contact OSCE Spokesperson Claire Trevena, tel: (+381-38) 500-162 ext. 260 / mobile: +377 (044) 500-150 / e-mail: [email protected], //www.osce.org/kosovo/
"We have spent the last 18 months working hard to create a more democratic and tolerant climate," said Ambassador Everts. "But this violence is undermining all our efforts. It has not only taken the lives of innocent people - it harms all the people of Kosovo."
Attempts to restore confidence and create conditions for peaceful co-existence are shattered by such acts of terrorism, he said.
"People in Kosovo and their political leaders have to show that they are serious about embracing democracy and civil society. They have to take a stronger stance against extremism. And they should actively help in tracing those who carried out this unforgivable act," Everts said.
For further information, contact OSCE Spokesperson Claire Trevena, tel: (+381-38) 500-162 ext. 260 / mobile: +377 (044) 500-150 / e-mail: [email protected], //www.osce.org/kosovo/