France backs reform of Kosovo judicial system

In a communiqué released to the media by France's embassy since the end of the war and independence of Kosovo, this state has been consistently committed to monitoring and supporting reforms needed to establish and consolidate rule of law and approach Kosovo towards the EU.

Several European projects were developed with the participation of the French Justice Ministry and the professionals of judicial issue. In recent years, very high-level French judges have conveyed their experience to their Kosovo counterparts, through an institutional twinning programme led by Italy and France aimed at reinforceing the judiciary's high councils. (judges and prosecutors). This central project, to ensure the responsibility, independence and professionalism of judges, ended in early May”, the embassy's communique said.

According to the Kosovo Justice Minister has committed an ambitious process of drafting judicial review, which should be published in September this year.

France's ambassador noted the importance of this strategic document, which defines priorities for the coming years, and he expressed readiness for France's full support for implementing continued reforms in the field of justice.

The minister and ambassador welcomed the possibility of finalisation in the future of an agreement on bilateral co-operation between Kosovo and France. In addition, they noted the importance of continuing bilateral activities implemented to support the training of Kosovo judges and prosecutors and to support the independence and efficiency of the judiciary”, the communiqué said.

The ambassador also expressed the commitment of French Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Justice, in line with the new French strategy for the Western Balkans presented by President Macron to the Berlin Summit margins to continue supporting reform in justice, especially within the framework of future European projects.