Special Court: Victims will be able to participate in court processes

With confirmation of an indictment in Kosovo's Specialised Chambers (DHSK) and its publication, victims can now begin applying for participation in future processes.

That is how Kosovo's Specialised Chambers have revealed through a media communique.

This is the full announcement:

With confirmation of an indictment in Kosovo's Specialised Chambers (DHSK) and its publication, victims can now begin applying for participation in future processes.

Speaking about the participation of Kosovo President Ekaterina Trendafilova said Kosovo's specialised chamber has jurisdiction over serious crimes, including crimes against humanity and war crimes. To achieve justice, we must not forget those who have suffered such crimes. In our court, victims are given the opportunity to participate in judicial processes, in the realisation of justice. ”

Those who may prove to have personally suffered physical, mental, or material harm as a direct consequence of alleged crimes involved in a confirmed indictment may apply for participation in the processes. Furthermore, a judge decides whether the pre-representer of the motion could receive the status of the participating victim in the DHSK.

Kosovo's Specialised Chambers are committed to enabling victims to participate in judicial processes, with the help of victims' defenders. The Association of Victims Office will make every effort to help people meet the requirements, which will be treated safely and confidentially,” said Administrator Fidelma Donlon.

Victims participating in the processes in the DHSK will form one or more groups. Each group is represented through a lawyer, also called the defender of the victims. Victims' defenders may be present at court hearings and inform the victims during the entire trial process. Victims ' defenders ask the victims to express their opinions, hear their concerns, and convey such thoughts and concerns to their respective judges. Victims who participate in the court processes in the DHSK have certain rights including the right to announcement, accession and damage.

There is essential importance for the voice of the victims to be heard during all future processes. I strongly encourage those who have suffered as a direct consequence of crimes presented in the indictment to participate in this process”, Special Prosecutor Jack Smith added.

More information on the participation of victims, including how requests should be submitted, can be found in: https://wah. scp-x.org/sq/Room-e-specialized/victims