UNMIK may help manage major crises around the world

New Chief of Defense UNMIK in Pristina, Peter Due, has said that the early experiences of this UN mission in Kosovo could serve as a model for managing crises various regions of the world are facing.

“Bota is quite chaotic at the moment, but some people still use UNMIK's first days as an example of how to manage crises. We, as the UN, can do things that others cannot --” -- he stressed, in a video presentation carried out by this mission, the Kosovo Press broadcasts.

In it, Due talks about his previous experience in Kosovo and the role the UN mission has had and continues to have in crisis management and peace building.

Danish politician recalled serving in UNMIK in Pristina during 1999-2000, naming his return to Kosovo as a special experience.

I spent the first few days meeting as many people as possible to listen and learn. There has been remarkable progress a new and dynamic society, but there are certainly challenges still remaining”.

Speaking of UNMIK's historic role, Due stressed that the mission has once been very large and key in the post-war reconstruction of Kosovo.

“We were a very big mission that helped rebuild Kosovo. Today we are much smaller, but the mandate remains the same” he said.

He noted that the main change lies in the way the mandate is implemented.

The way we apply the mandate is very different: by bringing together the majority communities, non-US communities and institutions. We hope that these activities lead to a more peaceful, prosperous, multiethnic society” said Due.

Due added that he will try to be <x0-factive, accurate and impartial” in the exercise of office, but also when he will have to report to the UN, encouraging the public and the media to closely follow his and the mission's work.

In the end, he also released personal impressions of Kosovo, praising the nature, hospitality and energy of citizens.

I like mountains, food and famous coffee. I have met many locals and seen warmth, energy and kindness,” said the chief UNMIK, Peter Due. /Kosovo pres/