Thaci civil paper society reject border correction

Civil society organisations in Kosovo through a media statement have indicated that with concern they are following all statements by President Hashim Thaci on changing or correcting Kosovo's border with Serbia on ethnic grounds.

These organisations have rejected such ideas, which they say provoke hatred and confusion.

This is the full letter:

Through this letter, we strongly oppose such dangerous ideas that promote conflict, confusion and hatred between the citizens of Kosovo and Serbia, while the Serb community living in Kosovo is further discouraged to integrate into the country's society and institutions. Also, your statements may affect citizens of the region, believing that such nationalist agendas can be successful even after a dark history of Balkan wars.

Given our recent past, a change of borders would destabilise and threaten security in Kosovo and Serbia, but also in the region. This could bring us back two decades ago, rejecting all efforts so far for reconciliation between the two states.

We ask you not to make conflicting statements, but to focus on dialogue and normalisation of relations, as well as on addressing post-war issues such as that of missing persons, of survivors of sexual violence and civilian victims of all ethnicities from the recent war in Kosovo, which is essential to the stability, security and prosperity of the two countries. We are convinced that dialogue is the only way towards achieving reconciliation and lasting peace between Kosovo and Serbia.

Kosovo institutions must protect and respect the rights of all citizens indiscriminately, building mutual trust, appreciating diversity and guaranteeing prosperity and security for all.

President, the Constitution of the Republic of Kosovo owes you to work with and for all citizens, regardless of their ethnic affiliation. Therefore, you should encourage better communication and co-operation among people living in Kosovo based on respect, tolerance and understanding for each other.

In the end, we ask you to respect your constitutional obligation as president of the Republic of Kosovo and to withdraw your statements that create further isolation and endanger the future of new generations. We encourage you to engage in making Kosovo a peaceful and prosperous country for all.

Honestly,

The Kosovo Youth Human Rights Initiative Centre for Kosovo Kosovar Centre for Reconstruction of Torture Survivors Center for Development of Social Groups Center for Equality and Liberty Community Building Mitrovica Kosovar Centre for Kosovo Security Studies in Gender Studies O JQ INTEGRA Movement FOL The Balkan Forum Network of Women of Kosovo Organisation COHU!