EU with election observer mission in Kosovo

The decision comes in response to a request made by Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani.

The EU's announcement reportedly that EU High Representative for Foreign Policy and Security Josep Borrell appointed European Parliament deputy from Austria Lucas Mandl, chief of the Kosovo election observer mission.

After that decision, Borrell said the European Union remains committed to supporting Kosovo on its European path and strengthening democratic governance.

For the third time, we will observe municipal elections in Kosovo through an EU election monitoring mission. I believe that the presence of this mission will contribute to a comprehensive, reliable and transparent election process, as well as to assist the necessary electoral reforms for the future. We expect to continue co-operation with Kosovo authorities to strengthen the electoral process, in line with the findings and recommendations of our missions”, Borrell said.

Mandl said he was honored for the trust he was given with the appointment.

“I am convinced that the mission will bring an added value to the election process. I enjoyed meetings and engagement with authorities on the ground, political parties, candidates, civil society and other participants in the” election process, he said.

According to an EU Foreign Service announcement, ten election experts have already been deployed in Pristina.

By mid-September, there will be 22 long - term observers.

The mission will be reinforced with short-term observers during election day, including in the event of the second run, on November 14th.