Elections Pave Way for Brezovica Privatisation

November 27 - December 10, 2009 Issue No. 28 www.prishtinainsight.com Free copy

FEATURE Mayoral run-off ’s Football - in but International not Gjakova. Sporting Isolation As Prishtina Insight went to press it emerged that the LDK had just missed out on winning the mayoralty of Podujevo outright and that despite eight boxes being annulled in > page 7 Gjakova, there would be no mayoral ARTE run-off. Digging up the Dirt on Novo Brdo’s Gold Turn to page 3 for more news and analysis on Kosovo’s local elections. > page 9

GUIDE Selling Coal to Kosovo Bulgaria Faces Bleak Prishtina Insight has discovered that one of Kosovo’s biggest firms is being forced to import lignite from Malaysia and Winter Tourist Indonesia, despite the newly independent country sitting on the world’s fifth largest reserve of the fuel. Season privatisation programme, complains problems mean that it is cheaper for be exhausted. By Besiana Xharra that the lignite which is available can- his firm to import coal from thou- Economic experts believe that > page 8 not be used. sands of kilometres away rather than Kosovo must quickly open new lignite etal firm Ferronikeli, one of Arten Bajrushi, spokesman for buy it in Kosovo. Transporting from mines, which would be able to supply Kosovo’s biggest companies, Ferronikeli, said: “Even early on, and South East Asia remains cheaper, Ferronikeli and other firms. FOOD & DRINK Mis importing lignite from the still today, we have imported lignite even though coal is shipped to Greece, Azem Rexhaj, who is executive other side of the world because it can- from other countries of the world.” as and Montenegro do not director of the Independent A Perfect Balance not access the country’s rich reserves He added that only a very small have the capacity to take large cargo. Commission of Mines and Minerals, of brown coal. amount of lignite is taken from KEK, Bajrushi hopes that with the pri- ICMM, said: “With the opening of a > page 10 Prishtina Insight has discovered Kosovo’s national energy provider, vatisation of KEK, the situation will new mine, we will have the opportuni- that the ferronickel exporter has been because the publicly owned firm can- improve, as currently only KEK has ty to extract sufficient lignite, will also forced to sign deals with Malaysia and not provide enough lignite, and that the right to sources of energy.But offi- create new jobs and will stop the NGO FOCUS Indonesia to import lignite to its plant the coal it can provide is ‘too wet’ for cials at KEK told Prishtina Insight import of lignite that wastes several in Drenas. Ferronikeli to use. that it does not have the right to sell million euros a year,” said Rexhaj. Unveiling Kosovo has about 14,700 million Bajrushi said: “Lignite that KEK lignite. According to Viktor Buzhala, Kosovo’s government has decided tonnes of unexploited lignite, worth uses for electricity is 38 per cent wet, KEK Spokesman, only Kosovacoal to deal with the situation by opening Discrimination in 120 billion euro, which is estimated to while for our technological processes KC, a subsidiary of KEK, has the right the Sibovc mine, which can supply be the fifth largest reserve of brown lignite needs to be only 18 per cent wet. to sell lignite. No officials at the firm coal for 40 years, and is expected to Kosovo coal on the planet. “This issue was supposed to be responded to questions from this open next year. But Kosovo’s current mines are solved by a drying facility that KEK newspaper. The new mine is being opened to > page 14 soon to run out of coal and does have, but it does not work most of Kosovo is currently using just 2 per- supply Kosovo’s new power station, Ferronikeli, which was bought in 2007 the time.” cent of its coal stocks at the Mirash Kosova e Re, which has been dogged CITY by IMR/Alferon as part of Kosovo’s He added that KEK’s organisational and Bardhi mines, which are soon to by delays. Kosovo Power Plant News Business Re-Tendered The Zanzibar Affair Easy Jet Applies for Kosovo Route > page 6 The governing coalition collapsed for British budget airline Easy Jet has 12 hours last week after the dominant applied for permission to fly to Kosovo’s Democratic Party of Kosovo, PDK, made international airport. a late-night decision to drop its partners, From June next year, the low-cost car- the Democratic League of Kosovo, LDK. rier plans to start flights between A coterie of top PDK officials met last Prishtina and Geneva, with tickets start- Thursday at Zanzibar, an underground ing from as little as 20 euro. The firm bar just off Mother Teresa Boulverard in also has plans to connect Kosovo with Prishtina... page 4 other European cities... page 5

is supported by: 2 • Nov. 27 - Dec. 10, 2009 marketing news • Nov. 27 - Dec. 10, 2009 3 Violent Incidents and Fraud Take Editor’s word Shine off Historic Kosovo Poll Qymyr Widespread praise heaped on Kosovo’s institutions for exemplary conduct of first post-independence election may have overstepped the mark a little. Last Monday, the US ambassador Organizations, which had more of a second round. Her video showed to Kosovo, Christopher Dell, heaped than 100 observers, said the elec- officials from the AAK and from the By Lawrence Marzouk praise on Kosovo’s institutions, call- tions had taken place “in a calm and opposition ORA party filling ballot By Lawrence Marzouk ing the elections a “tremendous suc- orderly atmosphere marked by some boxes in the village of Demjan, cess”. breaches of procedure”. which, if true, presumably damaged was asked this week whether Dell said: “Kosovo and its citizens According to their monitors, the her chances of winning. there was much private for- osovo’s first elections since it can be very proud today. Kosovo’s voting process was assessed posi- A protest held in Gjakova last Ieign investment in Kosovo. declared independence have voters, its politicians, and the offi- tively in 93 per cent of polling sta- Tuesday against electoral fraud Unfortunately, the answer I pro- Kbeen greeted with warm cials charged with organizing and tions they visited. However, they attracted several hundred people. vided was ‘no’. words and encouragement from managing the elections, demonstrat- noted some procedural shortcom- An AKR statement said the party Sure, the Slovenians and monitors, the international commu- ed to the world that an independent ings in a minority of polling sta- could not endorse assessments that Austrians have been busy with nity and local institutions. Kosovo is a place where democracy tions. “the elections were conducted in a mobile phones, supermarkets But since the relief and back-pat- can and does flourish. In 4 per cent of polling stations spirit of free and democratic. The and banks. ting of election day, evidence has “To the many Kosovo Serbs who they visited, polling station commit- facts speak otherwise”. The party And there is interest in emerged of fraud, irregularities and voted yesterday, I commend your tee members did not always check added that it had also heard reports Kosovo’s major infrastructure violence at the polls. decision to participate and your properly for ink and in 2 per cent of police threatening voters with projects, for example the con- BIRN Kosovo journalists, acting courage,” he added. they did not check voters’ ID, creat- weapons and votes being cast on struction of the Merdare- as monitors during Sunday’s local David Miliband, the British ing opportunities for people to vote behalf of people “who are dead or Vermice highway and Kosova e elections, were themselves witness Foreign Secretary, also congratulat- more than once, or vote by proxy. living outside Kosovo”. Re. to electoral fraud, incidents of vio- ed the people of Kosovo on holding In a report issued on Monday, the The AAK also filed complaints to But hope that independence lence, threats and other irregulari- their first elections since independ- network wrote: “The secrecy of the the Election Complaints and would lead to foreign companies ties, raising questions about ence, while acknowledging some ballot was not always observed. In Appeals Commission, ECAC, about flocking to Kosovo has so far whether praise of the polls was too irregularities in the election particular, cases of group or family election fraud in Vushtrri where failed to materialise. hasty. process. voting were observed in 34 per cent police have been investigating a kid- I am no fan of the McDonalds Based on what was witnessed, “Sunday’s local elections, which of stations, proxy voting in 7 per napping from a polling station. and Starbucks of this world, but BIRN submitted five complaints to attracted good levels of participa- cent and attempts to influence vot- Concerns have also been raised these types of outlets usually the Electoral Complaints and tion from all Kosovo’s communities, ers in some 4 per cent [of polling sta- about the conduct of the elections in spring up pretty quickly when Appeals Commission. are a critical marker in Kosovo’s tions].” some Serb-majority areas. there is money to be made. In total, the ECAC received more emergence as a strong multi-ethnic Incidents of electoral fraud were Allegations have been aimed at the So why is Kosovo failing to than 150 complaints, and has democracy,” Miliband said. witnessed by BIRN Kosovo journal- Serbian Liberal Party, which won attract enough foreign invest- annulled the results of 15 polling sta- But he went on to say that every- ists monitoring the vote. In Obilic, the mayoralty outright in Gracanica ment? tions due to suspicions of fraud, or one needed to acknowledge “that BIRN observers filmed one PDK offi- and came first in Strpce. First, Kosovo has yet to take its some 1,500 ballot papers. there were irregularities in the elec- cial adding the number of one of Defeated candidates in Gracanica place at the United Nations, and But as Prishtina Insight went to toral process. their candidates to all ballots on on Tuesday alleged that the Liberals with the International Court of press, it emerged Gjakova, where Prime Minister Thaci, whose gov- which voters had not selected their bought votes in exchange for cash Justice case looming on the legal- the results of eight polling stations erning Democratic Party of Kosovo second choice candidate for the and goods. The newspaper ity of the unilateral declaration have been annulled, would not go to won the highest number of mayoral- municipality. Politika also claimed that some of independence, companies still a second round, despite claims to ties in the first round, maintained Two BIRN monitors were forced Roma voters were provided with see Kosovo as a risky investment. the contrary. It also appeared that that the elections had met “the high- to leave polling stations under the money, flour and firewood in The second problem is struc- the LDK would not win Podujevo est European and Western stan- threat of violence, in Gjakova and exchange for voting for the Liberals. tural, and can be no clearly illus- outright, as predicted in the prelim- dards”. Obilic. In Gjakova, one witnessed a They have threatened to begin a trated than this week’s story in inary results. He added on Monday: “Kosovo has knife being put to the throat of a campaign of civil disobedience if Prishtina Insight on lignite On election day, ambassadors and proven itself to be a champion of polling station observer from a polit- the election is not re-run. the International Civilian democracy in the region. The local ical party by an official member of The election was not without imports to Kosovo. Representative, Pieter Feith, herald- elections have definitely gone the polling centre committee. other incidents of intimidation and It beggars belief that a country ed the turn-out of Kosovo Serbs and beyond their parameters.” People voting up to ten times with violent threats. which sits on the world’s fifth the calm polling process. Elections observers, both local different IDs were also spotted by On election day police arrested largest lignite reserves is being The relatively high turnout and international, were less fulsome BIRN across the country. four men outside a polling station in forced to transport brown coal among Albanians, surpassing the in their praise, pointing out a num- The opposition New Kosovo Vushtrri in a jeep, heavily armed, from the other side of the world. 2007 poll, and of Serbian voters in ber of irregularities, though they Alliance, AKR has been the most wearing bulletproof jackets and in It is also startling that the facil- newly redrawn Serb-majority were generally satisfied with the vocal in condemning electoral fraud. possession of election material. In ity which is supposed to dry the municipalities – 24 per cent voted in outcome. Mimoza Kusari-Lila, its mayoral Prizren two armed men entered a coal out for commercial use does Gracanica – was seen as a success Democracy in Action, the coali- candidate for the western town of polling station and allegedly put not work. for democracy and as a vindication tion of local NGOs that fielded more Gjakova, who is also representing pressure on election committee Electricity cuts and traffic- of the de-centralisation process in than 2,000 observers across the the Democratic League of Dardania, members. chocked roads are just two of Kosovo. country, said the election had been LDD, released a video this week Problems in the central counting many other serious issues com- The lack of major incidents was broadly properly run but that there allegedly showing ballot-box stuff- centre have also led to serious delays panies have to contend with when seen as positive. The final days of had been a number of irregulari- ing. in the publication of the final doing business in the world’s the campaign were, however, ties, including widespread family Kusari-Lila received 40 per cent of results. This has included a failure youngest country. marred by the stoning of Prime voting, where one member of the the vote in Gjakova while her rival for a number of days of the automat- Now, it is only fair to say that Minister Hashim Thaci’s motorcade family votes for all others. from the Alliance for the Future of ic audit system, which picks out Kosovo is making efforts to solve and shots fired at a candidate’s car ENEMO, the European Network Kosovo, AAK, won 52 per cent, secur- errors in the number of votes being these problems, and is being in the northern town of Mitrovica. of Election Monitoring ing the post of mayor without need inputted. helped along the way by its inter- national partners. But Kosovo institutions also need to learn to help themselves The Government Sells off Horses, more, rather than just helping themselves to the proceeds of dubious tenders. Until corruption is tackled and Donkeys and Cows firms can compete fairly for busi- ness, Kosovo’s progress towards ot on the heels of announcements to by the police four months ago while unidenti- resolving its infrastructural privative PTK and build a new power fied persons were attempting to smuggle them issues will be stunted. Hstation, Kosovo’s government has into Kosovo loaded with coffee. In England, there is an expres- revealed its latest money making venture – the The agency told Prishtina Insight that when sion ‘selling coal to Newcastle’, auction of five horses and nine donkeys. the cost of keeping these animals becomes too which indicates the absurdity of A tender published in Kosovo national news- high, it organises an auction. trying to sell a product to a city papers offered the quick sale of the animals on According to the FVA, the agency has held which already has it in abun- behalf of the Office of the Prime Minister, just two auctions in total. byPhoto Besar Likmeta dance. Hashim Thaci, and the Food and Veterinary The agency receives animals that have been Horses used for smuggling have been put up for sale Let’s hope that the idiom ‘Me i Agency. caught being used for contraband and being near Mitrovica. Allegedly, the owner of the shit qymyr Kosoves’ doesn’t According to the Food and Veterinary smuggled into the country. animals lacked the appropriate documenta- catch on. Agency, FVA, these animals were confiscated On November 23, 11 cows were confiscated tion. 4 • Nov. 27 - Dec. 10, 2009 news The Zanzibar Affair Outside In How a night in one of Prishtina’s best known bars ended with the collapse of the government The Attention Alliance, AKR, making controver- sial businessman Behgjet Pacolli president of the country, and the Seekers By Lawrence Marzouk Democratic League of Dardania, LDD, giving Nexhat Daci the role of parliamentary speaker. he governing coalition col- PDK sources told public broad- By Kreshnik Hoxha lapsed for 12 hours last week caster RTK that AKR and the LDD Tafter the dominant will become part of the governing Democratic Party of Kosovo, PDK, coalition the next day at 2pm. made a late-night decision to drop A well-placed source speaking to ll that tedious election malarkey is its partners, the Democratic League Prishtina Insight on Thursday thankfully done and dusted now! Some would argue they had had of Kosovo, LDK. night confirmed that the coalition A

Photo byPhoto Insight Prishtina for Rrahmani Petrit enough by the first week of the election cam- A coterie of top PDK officials met was dead. Zanzibar, where PDK held a late-night meeting on the future of the government paign. In all honesty, the amount of drama last Thursday at Zanzibar, an An LDK official also contacted a produced by the political parties was hardly underground bar just off Mother late-night television show,confirm- row they will think differently’. The international community digestible by the purely confused voter. New Teresa Boulverard in Prishtina, ing that Kuci, who had been at The other, new ‘coalition part- also reacted on Friday morning, candidates, new coalitions, same old vague and close to the party’s head office. Zanzibar that evening, had ner’, the Democratic League of branding changes to coalitions promises, smashing accusations, but most A Jazz concert had been planned informed him that the coalition Dardania, LDD, said that they only ‘part of the democratic process’, but importantly,new voters – the Serbs. Yes, that for that evening, but as senior gov- was no more. heard the news from the media. calling on all parties to respect the minority group that we should congratulate ernment officials gathered, includ- Kuci then held an impromptu And questions marks over the constitution. for their participation. Well, at least those ing the Prime Minister Hashim press conference at just shy of 1am Zanzibar decision were proved According to constitution, the who dared to cast the ballot while mourning Thaci and Deputy Prime Minister confirming that his party had correct the next day, when both president can be changed by parlia- Patriarch Pavle’s death, who probably would Hajredin Kuci, to discuss the decided ‘to review the governing LDK and PDK changed their ment if two-thirds of assembly have cursed them for voting. future of the coalition, the gig was coalition’ after ‘the LDK had violat- minds. members vote in favour, but only in Seen as the democracy test for Kosovo, cancelled concerts and customers ed the parties’ agreeement’. In the press statement released cases when he is unable to continue these elections were holistically evaluated asked to leave. But questions marks were on Friday, the PDK claimed that his duties due to illness, if he has as a success for our newly born country. As BIRN’s Life in Kosovo show already being raised about the plan ‘party remains strongly dedicated been sentenced by a court, or if he Local media kept over-dosing us on the was broadcast on RTK on after a series of interviews were for the functional stability of the has violated the constitution. superficial speeches of the Kosovo leaders Thursday at 10pm, news flashed on aired on television with ‘new mem- central institutions of the Daily newspaper about the success of these elections and the the screen that the government bers of the coalition’. Republic of Kosovo and the reported that LDK sources had said message Kosovo gave to the world on had fallen. Behgjet Pacolli, who was sup- process of the country’s develop- that PDK had withdrawn from the Sunday,November 15. But, did we make it to The public broadcaster revealed posed to become the new ment’. move as it was not capable of per- the BBC’s 10 o’clock News? Not really! that, according to a PDK source, President, told KTV from “The free, fair and democratic suading enough MPs to dismiss Ironically, this reminds me of January 21, Prime Minister Hashim Thaci had Switzerland that night: “I didn’t local election of November 15, can- President Sejdiu from office 2006 when Kosovo’s Former President Dr broken his two year partnership know anything until some hours not influence the good functioning Deputy Prime Minister Kuci, Ibrahim Rugova died and the BBC’s head- with the LDK, headed by president ago.” of the central institutions: the however, said this was not true. lines went on about saving a whale that had Fatmir Sejdiu. “I received an SMS and I thought Parliament, President and Kosovo “PDK never had a problem with fig- lost its way in the Thames. Tensions between the two par- that they are joking. Some minutes Republic Prime Minister,” the ures. But so far we have not made It’s somewhat surprising to realise that ties had been mounting after a ago the PM called and he told me statement added. The party said any offer for the new coalition,” the British public broadcaster, BBC, had fierce electoral campaign. An that there are real chances to dis- the coalition will remain intact Kuci was quoted as saying. very little coverage on Kosovo’s elections agreement signed between the cuss the coalition at the central until parliamentary elections The late-night decision to break bar on its website, considering that the UK Alliance for the Future of Kosovo, level and I told him that I’m on scheduled for 2011. LDK issued a the coalition has been criticised by contribution to EULEX is projected to be AAK, and the LDK that day to form vacation and I told him that it similar statement. members of the opposition. approximately £22 million between August a coalition for the mayoral run-off wouldn’t be good if such informa- A grinning Thaci was followed Blerim Shala, deputy leader of 2009 and June 2010 – all this coming from the in Prizren against the PDK was tion would ruin my vacation, by journalists as he left the the AAK, wrote in Koha Ditore that British taxpayers money. believed to have been the final nail because such decisions need time Assembly on Friday morning but the only people to benefit from the No news on Kosovo was published on the in the coffin. and for the moment there are no refused to add to the statement. Zanzibar incident were the bar, website of the leading British daily The RTK also reported that the PDK changes” But well placed sources told mobile phone operators, and the Times or the weekly The Economist either. was expected to form a governing He added that he was convinced Prishtina Insight that the coalition Guinness Book of Records for the However the daily Guardian, the coalition with the New Kosova that ‘two coalition parties will would not last much longer than faster fall and reformation of a gov- American daily New York Times, CNN, sleep and rest tonight and tomor- the December 13 mayoral runoffs. ernment. Associated Press and Reuters all reported religiously, reflecting the smooth election process in Kosovo. CNN had been very Spy’s Gay Lover ‘Revealed proactive in their reporting by updating www.prishtinainsight.com their website very frequently with thorough analysis on the Serb participation and the Publisher: Secrets to Organised Crime’ importance that these elections bear for Kosovo’s progress in the future. All in all, BIRN February 2005 officially as a contacted her employees to when reported, Kosovo’s election was seen Balkan Investigative Reporting Network diplomat working for the reveal all. She told BND offi- as a good news story, but it is fair to say that German Foreign Ministry. cials that her husband had the country’s historic day would have passed Mensa e Studenteve, first floor He is believed to have rent- By Lawrence Marzouk removed her name from his by most of the world’s population. 10000, Prishtina ed an apartment in the diplo- life insurance policy and This situation led to lots of tricky ques- Kosovo matic neighborhood of made Murat A the beneficiary. tions being raised concerning the attention Dragodan, leaving his wife Phone: +381 (0) 38 24 33 58 The BND launched an inves- given by the Western media to Kosovo’s German spy, working in and children behind in south- tigation and used a false pre- Fax: +381 (0) 38 22 44 98 transformation and state-building. Is Prishtina, stands ern Germany, text to order its two employees Kosovo becoming of secondary or even of [email protected] Aaccused of betraying According to a report in back to Munich, where they tertiary importance in the world politics as state secrets to his gay lover, Spiegel, Anton K changed his were arrested. But both were the friction in Afghanistan and Iraq keeps Editor-in-Chief: who fed the information to appearance so that he no released the next day. creeping up? Is the bloody credit crunch organised crime groups and longer looked like he had dur- Lawrence Marzouk The prosecutor is accusing grabbing all the attention from us? What local intelligence agencies. ing his military days, growing [email protected] the agent of having made clas- impact could this very limited coverage have Anton K., a German agent his hair to shoulder length sified reports available to his on the overall outcome of the ICJ earlier for many years, and his inter- and walking around the city lover while Murat A is alleged next month? Would the presence of violence Editorial Team: preter Murat A appeared in in flip-flops and polo shirts. to have had connections with and fraud in the elections have lead to more Ana Petruseva, Arif Muharremi, court in Munich last week at A few weeks later, he found organised crime, as well as coverage and is this really what we want? Or Gordana Igric, Jeta Xharra, Marcus the start of a trail which is his translator, Murat A, who did the international news providers just set to once again embarrass was approved by the BND having been involved with the Tanner, Petrit Collaku and Shega A’Mula Albanian and Macedonian swallow the line given to them by institu- the work of the BND, headquarters. tions keen to portray the day as a success. intelligence agencies. Germany’s spy network, in While working closely It’s a known urban myth that we, as a Marketing, Sales & Distribution: Lawyers representing Kosovo. Just 12 months ago, together, the two men fell in nation, like to be at the centre of the atten- [email protected] Anton K and Murat A have three BND agents were kicked love and Murat moved into tion. Maybe this time the coverage was pret- dismissed the allegations. out of Kosovo in strange cir- Anton’s apartment. This rela- ty low, but we’d rather have less coverage Design & Layout: “Rrjeti” cumstances after being tionship should have reported The trial started last week associated with a smooth process than head- accused of bombing the to the BND, but the agent did in Munich, but immediately lines of violence and fraud. No news is good Printing: Interpress R. Company offices of the International not do so. stalled after the lawyers of news – at least for the 129 sceptical UN mem- Civilian Office. BND extended Anton K’s Anton K and A Murat ber states that still question our credibility Copyright © BIRN Anton K reported for duty contract in 2007 until 2009 – demanded access to classified as a state. in Kosovo’s capital in that is, until the agent’s wife investigation files. business • Nov. 27 - Dec. 10, 2009 5

Kosovo Appraisers Join Easy Jet Applies for Kosovo Route European Network

The low-cost airline plans to connect Prishtina with Geneva for as little as 20 euro a flight he Kosovo Appraisers Association is calling for new Tmembers following its inclu- sion into the Europe-wide network. On November 14, KAA was By Lawrence Marzouk awarded the status of observer member of The European Group of Valuers Association, TEGoVA. ritish budget airline Easy KAA President Philip Walter Jet has applied for per- Smith said: “We look forward to a Bmission to fly to Kosovo’s long and successful existence in international airport. Kosovo.” From June next year, the low- The cost of the KAA membership cost carrier plans to start flights is currently being covered by the between Prishtina and Geneva, International Real Estate Appraisal with tickets starting from as lit- Service.

tle as 20 euro. The firm also has in Brief Business News plans to connect Kosovo with other European cities at a later date. The firm has applied to Prishtina International Airport, Photo byPhoto easyjet PIA, for the right to run two Easy Jet wants to start flights between Prishtina and Geneva flights a week between Geneva and Prishtina from June 19 of told the Prishtina daily Express. Ioannou in 1995, and he and his It carries more passengers byPhoto FoNet next year, PIA spokesman Altin Easy Jet’s closest services to family remain major sharehold- than any other United Kingdom The Balkans still struggles with corruption Ahmeti confirmed. Prishtina are currently ers in easyJet PLC. based airline company, operat- “This company will increase Dubrovnik, Croatia, and Easy Jet currently has flights ing domestic and international Corruption in Balkans competition in the market and Thessalonica, Greece. between 103 cities in 27 coun- scheduled services on 387 Hinders Investments will lower prices because of the The airline was founded by tries in Europe and North routes. cheap services it offers,” Ahmeti entrepreneur Sir Stelios Haji- Africa. he 2009 corruption percep- tion index released by the TBerlin-based watchdog Transparency International shows Elections Pave Way for Brezovica that most countries in the Balkans have not improved their position in the global anti-corruption index. With the exception of Montengro, Privatisation Next Year the fight against corruption appears to have had little impact, Elections in Serb-majority municipalities have opened up a path for the privatisation of state-owned assets, with despite actions taken to tackle the problem and promises by heads of most eyes fixed on the future of the Brezovica ski resort. Kosovo Privatisation Agency has told Prishtina Insight that government to cut corruption in the it now plans to press ahead with the sale of the important tourist centre next year. run-up to EU membership, the sur- vey shows. The index showed that Croatia is considered as the least corrupt country in the region, ranked in By Lavdim Hamidi 66th place, followed by Montenegro at 69th, Romania, Bulgaria and Macedonia tied at 71th, Serbia at fter almost seven years of 83th, Albania at 95th and Bosnia delays and false starts, ranked 99th. Kosovo Privatisation A Last year’s index showed these Agency,KPA, looks set to embark countries at a comparable position, on the sale of major state-owned with some countries actually slip- enterprises in Serb settlements. ping. Only Montenegro increased The process has been stalled its ranking by a margin of more until now because of Kosovo than ten, rising from 85th place in Serbs’ refusal to work with the the 2008 survey. Albania fell from authorities in Prishtina. 85th place, and Croatia slipped from But, with the creation of new 62nd place in 2008. municipalities and a relatively Photo byPhoto Insight Prishtina for Rrahmani Petrit high turnout of Kosovo Serbs in A view of the mountain in Brezovica the local elections this month, Bosnia Gives Green the KPA now hopes to unblock Balkans. on hold, following a meeting of vatisation of the ski centre. He Light to EIB Loans the privatisation process. Bicaj has said that the privati- the KPA’s board this week. It is said the biggest objectors have Shkumbin Bicaj, KPA’s deputy sation of the ski centre, located understood that the KPA is now been Brezovica INEX, which, he osnia’s central government manager, told Prishtina Insight about 60 kilometers from the waiting for the results of the said, has profited from the centre has approved loans from the that 50 state-owned enterprises, Kosovo capital, , will mayoral run-off on December 13. without paying taxes. BEuropean Investment Bank, SOEs, in Serb areas are sched- happen in 2010. Haxhi Arifi, a member of “They have so far not paid any EIB, totaling 90 million euro, which uled to be privatised, compared He said the plan included the KPA’s board of directors and tax to the Kosovo budget, and are to be used to support small and to the 500 which have already sale of three major hotels – chairman of the Union of until recently they have not paid medium-size companies. been sold in other parts of the Narcis, Molika and Breza – and Independent Trade Unions of electricity either, and have there- The EIB is expected to provide country. He added that a small the ski lifts. Kosovo, said it was good privati- fore opposed privatisation of the cash through the Bosnia branch number of SOEs have already The ski centre is scheduled to sation was starting in Serb areas. Brezovica,” Hashani said. of Italian Intesa Sanpaolo Bank and been sold in Serb settlements. be privatised after an extensive, Alban Hashani, senior analyst the Raiffeisen Leasing unit of “Some shops found in the international marketing cam- at the economic think-tank Brezovica at a glance Austria’s Raiffeisen Zentralbank north of Kosovo, which is mainly paign and a conference to gather Riinvest, said the threat of pri- respectively. inhabited by Serbs, have been all major international compa- vatisation had meant that the Brezovica offers skiing oppor- The two banks will be able to dis- privatised, while their buyers nies together. current operators, Brezovica tunities from December until tribute funds to companies in trade, have been Serbs and Albanians,” The KPA was planning to start INEX, had not maintained the April. industry, environment and energy. said Bicaj. with the sale of assets at infrastructure, which has impact- The ski centre includes At the same time, the govern- The most important enterpris- Brezovica in December, with the ed on the value of the asset. approximately 230 hectares, ment of Bosnia’s Croat-Bosniak es up for privatisation are in the privatisation of some restau- He said the former Kosovo ranging between 900 and 2500 (Bosnian Muslim) entity municipality of Strpce, where rants on the outskirts of the ski Trust Agency, which became the metres in altitude, and three announced that it has given a green foreign investors are expected to centre. Kosovo Privatisation Agency,has hotels. light for a contract with German be interested in the ski centre at These included Kasollja maintained the status quo to Slopes for slalom and giant state-owned KfW bank for a loan of Brezovica, which has the poten- restaurant and small huts and a keep relative calm among Serbs. slalom have been officially regis- 71 million euros. The funding is to tial to become one of the top des- café in the town of Strpce. But But, according to Hashani, not tered by the Federation be used to build the country’s first tinations for snow-seekers in the these have temporarily been put all Serbs have been against pri- Internationale de Ski, FIS. wind farm. 6 • Nov. 27 - Dec. 10, 2009 city Kosovo Richard Power Plant Castleberr Lecturer of Marketing and Management at the American Re-Tendered University in Kosovo, and head of the Management unit. He has lived in ity will first be constructed. She added that the decision Kosovo since late August 2005. to decrease the capacity from 2,000MW to 1,000MW is part of By Petrit Collaku the ministry’s strategy to attract more potential investors to the bid.

fter failing to secure “For the construction of the of: the Eyes through Prishtina enough interest in the 2,000 megawatts plant, the com- Aconstruction of the panies were supposed to 2,000 megawatt power plant ensure bank guarantees or Kosova e Re, the Ministry of loans and now with, less capac- Energy says it now plans to ity,it’s easier for the companies reissue a tender for a facility to[do that],” said Shiroka-Pula. with half the capacity. She said that the two consor- Kosovo’s minister of energy tia Czech-US Cez-AES and and mines, Justina Shiroka- Italian-Greek ENEL-Sencap Richard Castleberr Pula, said that the tender for are still participating in the re- the site in Obilic, on the out- designed bid. What surprised you most about Prishtina? skirts of Prishtina, will be Pollution from the ageing How friendly the people were! I have lived in many issued at the beginning of 2010. power plants Kosovo A and B places around the world, and I can confidently say “In 2010, we expect to close pose environmental and health that the Kosovar people are the most genuinely, the tender and the winning problem to the 700,000 resi- friendly people I have ever met. Kosovars have really company will be able to start dents who live in the densely big hearts, especially toward Americans. the procedure for the realisa- populated region surrounding tion (of the project),” said the two lignite-fired power What’s your favourite hangout? Shiroka-Pula. plants, 10 kilometres from byPhoto Insight Prishtina for Rrahmani Petrit Having a 2-year-old prevents my wife and me from She said that a 500 MW facil- Pristina. Pollution from Kosovo A and B is a health risk for the inhabitants of Prishtina “hanging out” in the town very often, but when we get that rare chance, we enjoy having a drink at Strip Depot. It’s much more likely that you would find us Is This the World’s Ninth Ugliest walking our daughter on the Shesh, though. Do you do anything cultural? Being married to a Kosovar woman, I celebrate Building? most of the big Albanian holidays with my in-laws (i.e. Bajram (big and small), etc.). I eat pretty much rishtina’s landmark every Albanian food, too. National Library has Pbeen ranked the ninth What is the most annoying thing about ugliest building in the world. Prishtina? The strange construction, The most annoying thing about Prishtina would which was inaugurated in have to be a tie between the traffic and the lack of park- 1982, was handed the unfortu- ing. The lack of sufficient, and normal parking spaces nate accolade by members and (not on sidewalks), would have to be thrown in there, editors of the website too. It is amazing to me that there are apartment build- VirtualTourist.com. ings going up on top of other apartment buildings, and The website wrote: “It’s hard no parking garages virtually anywhere. Traffic is to know whether the honey- unbearable (no comment)! The trash around the town comb-pattern mesh that coats is also high on the list. the outside of this library enhances or worsens this If you were mayor of Prishtina for the day what would you change? bizarre structure. byPhoto Insight Prishtina for Rrahmani Petrit “It’s been said that when the Prishtina’s National Library has been named the ninth ugliest building in the world See my most annoying list above… The items above building first opened, some need to be changed… I’m not sure which one is most don’t have the warmth of an on its own, the installation of unfinished Lego creation is one thought the giant net-like fea- important, though. I think the parking problem, with ice cube while others don’t small, climbing babies by the member’s description of this ture was actually scaffolding.” the building of parking garages, etc. could be the eas- even seem completed,” said artist David Cerny trans- dreary, block-like structure. The library was designed by iest to resolve. The litter problem starts with peoples’ VirtualTourist.com general formed this tower from an eye- 7: Markel Building; the Croatian architect Andrija attitudes. How about employing some of these unem- manager Giampiero Ambrosi. sore to a head-shaker. Richmond, Virginia: Although Mutnjakovic and inaugurated ployed people to make Prishtina beautiful?! It must But not everyone has such 3: The Beehive; Wellington, it sounds like urban legend, in 1982. be something sustainable, however. harsh views about Prishtina’s New Zealand: A slide projector this futuristic building was The building was designed extraordinary library. that fell on a wedding cake that inspired by a baked potato so that the famous white glass How many macchiatos do you drink a day? The guide, Pristina in Your fell on a waterwheel is one served to the architect during a cupolas would let in the maxi- Two or three, for sure! I have heard that people Pocket, described the structure description of the Executive dinner for the American mum amount of natural light from Albania and Macedonia drive to Kosovo for as ‘simultaneously gorgeous Wing of the New Zealand Institute of Architects. while the metal grid covering macchiatos…is this true? Most likely! This is one and absurd’ and labels the inte- Parliament Buildings. 8: Michael Lee-Chin Crystal, the building deflects the sun- area that Kosovo has America beat…can’t get rior ‘beguiling’. 4: Centre Georges Pompidou; Royal Ontario Museum; light, to protect the books. Kosovar macchiatos at Starbucks! The Bradt Guide to Kosovo Paris, France: When looking at Toronto: While many praise Some 99 white domes adorn describes the building as one of the primary colour-coded ducts the glass structure, just as What’s the tastiest Kosovar food? the National and University the most interesting buildings constructed on the outside of many are troubled by the This is a tough one, considering I haven’t found an Library. architecturally in Prishtina. this modern art museum, one incongruity to the original, Albanian food that I don’t like yet. I would have to The white domes symbolise Box: Top ten world’s ugliest quickly sees why these ele- more traditional museum that say sarma, however I am very fond of speca te the plis, the traditional buildings ments are usually hidden. still sits directly beside it. mbushura, mantia, flija, pite me spinac/mish/etc. Albanian hat, thus combining 1: Morris A. Mechanic 5: Federation Square; 9: National Library; Pristina, the practical effect of supply- Theater; Baltimore, Maryland: Melbourne, Australia: Billed as Kosovo: See above What landmark do you use to tell taxi drivers ing natural light with a cele- Looking at the grim, imperson- “Melbourne’s Meeting Place,” 10: Ryugyong Hotel; where you live? bration of historical values. al facade of this once-thriving this frenzied and overly compli- Pyongyang, North Korea: As I have been living here for more than four years The national library fea- theatre, it’s hard to believe its cated square has a chaotic feel Riddled with issues that range now, I have graduated from telling taxi drivers tures alongside such beauties stage once hosted the likes of made worse by a web of from lack of money to poor “Skenderbeu”. Now, I say “mbrapa Hotel Iliria, te as an unfinished hotel in Katherine Hepburn and unsightly wires from which construction to rumored col- Western Union”. Not perfect, but better! This is Pyongyang, North Korea, and George C. Scott. overhead lights dangle. lapse, this still unfinished about to end, though, as my car is arriving from a derelict theatre in Baltimore, 2: Zizkov Television Tower; 6: Petrobras Headquarters; building has been under some America. Watch out, Prishtina, one more driver on USA. Prague, Czech Republic: While Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: A cross form of construction for over the roads, and one more car trying to get your park- “Many of these buildings its ugliness could easily stand between a penitentiary and an 20 years. ing space. feature • Nov. 27 - Dec. 10, 2009 7 Political Football - Kosovo’s International Sporting Isolation Kosovo Football Association head won legions of fans across ex- while playing for Belgrade’s FK Partizan. But even he could not bring the sporting bodies of Serbia and Kosovo together to discuss ending the new-born country’s international football isolation.

By Lawrence Marzouk

n March this year, during a visit to the Serbian capital Belgrade, IUEFA chairman Michel Platini was asked about Kosovo’s future in international football. He declared: “Politics is not my job, and UEFA honours its statute.” Since declaring independence from Serbia in February 2008, UEFA and FIFA have trotted out this unmovable line, condemning Kosovo’s international football team to a series of bizarre friendlies and forced its best players to slip on the jersey of other countries. According to the sport’s govern- ing bodies, without membership of the United Nations, Kosovo cannot take its place on the international stage. And hopes that Kosovo’s isolation Photo byPhoto Federation Football Kosovo could be broken during the first ever meeting between the football associations of Serbia and Kosovo earlier this month were dashed Kosovo’s Football Team when the Belgrade representatives pulled out. dmond Rugova, a Kosovar but quit earlier this year after the Selection’ for a match with Albert Bunjaku, formerly the Kosovo FA head Fadil Vokkri, who moved to the US and FFK found organising matches dif- Allsvenskan side Malmo, whose coach of Kalmar FF in Sweden, who was known for his powerful Eplayed for New York Cosmos, ficult. squad includes exiled Kosovars, took over as Kosovo’s coach but shot during his time as a Yugoslav returned to the land of his birth in Friendlies with Qatar and Benin Labinot Harbuzi and Agon Rugova has returned to Kosovo as international player, wasn’t able to 2006 to take over as manager of had to be cancelled and the Kosovo Mehmeti. chief executive of the country’s break the deadlock. Kosovo’s nascent national team. national side had to sneak into A weakened Kosovan side lost 5-0 biggest club, FC Prishtina. He told Prishtina Insight: “We He secured a 1-0 win over 2006 Sweden in March 2009 and play as and shortly after that match, met with the FIFA president Sep world cup finalists Saudi Arabia the ‘Super Liga of Kosovo Rugova returned to the US. Source: www.playthegame.org Blatter, general secretary Jerome Valcke, vice president Geoffrey Federation, KFF.” were ready for a challenge because Thompson, legal director Marco On this last issue, FIFA and all arguments were on our side. Velingerm and the advisor and UEFA agreed to help. But there was “Without their presence, we have director for international relations no tangible progress at the meeting proven to FIFA officials that KFF Jerome Chamagne, who is my in Kosovo’s desire to join the organ- and Kosovo’s football, for some friend and a friend of Kosovo foot- isation. years now, are organising football ball. But according to Vokrri, the high- in accordance with international “It was a warm and fruitful meet- est officials in world football prom- rules of football.” ing. All the hosts expressed sympa- ised to do everything to meet the Vokrri believes that inclusion in thy to us and Kosovo football, saying requests. these international organisations is that they will help Kosovo football. “Then we asked for permission crucial for the development of foot- “They are committed to doing as for friendly matches for Kosovo,” ball in Kosovo. much as possible in the circum- Vokrri said. He said: “We would gain major stances to give space for Kosovo The Kosovo delegation is expect- help in terms of the infrastructure football in the international arena ing to travel to the next meeting of improvements that we really need at until full acceptance. FIFA officials in Zurich to discuss this time, the football quality would “We have put forward our the proposals in more detail. improve, the clubs would be stimu- requests from the beginning for full

Vokirri said that the withdrawal lated more with international com- byPhoto Federation Football Kosovo acceptance and a request to respect of the Serbian representatives at petitions, they would have bigger the transfer of Kosovo players the last moment played in Kosovo’s crowds, and clubs would benefit “We would gain major help in terms of the infrastructure through international certificates favour. financially.” issued by Kosovo’s Football He told Prishtina Insight: “We UEFA has indicated that if the improvements that we really need at this time, the football FFK is admitted into the interna- quality would be improve, the clubs would be stimulated more tional organisations, Kosovars play- ing international football for other with international competitions, they would have bigger nations will be allowed to switch crowds, and clubs would benefit financially.” nationality. is a Kosovar who cur- The former Partisan Belgrade about me as a player who made his rently plays for Sunderland in the player said he had been pleased to mark in the clubs I played for, not UK and for the national Albanian receive a great deal of support from just Prishtina, but also in Partisan team, Behrami is in the Swiss squad across ex-Yugoslavia following his and in the former Yugoslav team. and Shefki Kuqi of TuS Koblenz in high profile meeting with FIFA but He said: “After the meeting with Germany has appeared for Finland that his country’s footballing future FIFA, all my fans from all over ex- more than 50 times. had, unfortunately, become tangled Yugoslavia expressed their admira- Vokkri hopes that all these play- up in politics. tion. ers will return to play for Kosovo. He said: “I haven’t been in “Politics should not interfere in He said: “Throughout Europe we Belgrade for some time. But, I do sports. But, unfortunately some- have football players with fame in have contacts with my fellow play- times sports become politics and in clubs and different national teams, ers. our case we are the hostage of poli- such as Switzerland, Germany and “I modestly point you towards tics. Perhaps one day this will be Photo byPhoto Federation Football Kosovo Kosovo’s national squad at their training ground Sweden but also elsewhere.” sport websites where my fans talk eliminated.” • Nov. 27 - Dec. 10, 2009 8 Guide BulgariaBulgaria FacesFaces BleakBleak WinterWinter TouristTourist SeasonSeason Photo byPhoto FoNet Russian firms have cancelled charter flights to Bulgaria

ulgaria’s skiing seasons is (BATA), announced on Monday. November 2008, operates as a number of tourists from Russia, British flight cancellations. facing ‘collapse’ after There is a serious risk of a col- courier service. This does not and that is one of our main The sector is also worried by BRussian charter flights have lapse of the winter holiday season make the process of issuing visas tourist markets,” Sokolova con- the effects of the swine flu epi- been cancelled and other visitors if this problem is not overcome, easier but merely adds to the cost, cluded. demic on bookings for winter are predicted to stay away. she said. said Sokolova. She further predicted a 10 per vacations, but, Soklova comment- According to news service The basic cost of a visa for a She said that BATA is going to cent drop in the numbers of ed that “it was a good sign that at Novinite, charter flights from Russian citizen is 35 euro, but the meet with representatives of the British visitors. the World Travel Market (WTM) Russia to Bulgaria for Christmas total increases by 12 to 47 euro Ministry of Foreign Affairs “Our hopes were that this tourist expo in London, held last and New Year have already been once the handling charges of the (MFA), to discuss yet again the decline in the British market week, there wasn’t a single person canceled because of problems visa centres of the Indian compa- issue of whether to continue the would be offset by Russian visi- wearing a mask”. with issuing Bulgarian visas to ny VFS Global are added. Bulgarian contract with VFS tors, but evidently this will not Russian citizens, Donka Sokolova, The outsourcing company, with Global. now happen,” she stated. See the next Prishtina Insight for chairwoman of the Bulgarian which the Bulgarian Embassy in “Due to these problems with The BATA chair added that at a full guide to the best skiing across Association of Tourist Agencies Moscow signed an agreement in visas, we can expect a fall in the least there were not yet any the Balkans.

Tirana: Living Room(Rr. Presidenti George W. Bush 16). Belgrade Named as Best Party One of Tirana’s coolest bars - lit- erally, as in summer the large rooftop lounge area catches the evening breeze after a hot day. That’s when the pretty people City in the Wolrd come out in force to cram them- selves on the multilevel decks elgrade and Thessaloniki overlooking the city. In winter, were named as among the retreat to the first floor of the Bworld’s top 10 party cities in building with its living room style the Lonely Planet’s new guide, 1000 bar. The restaurant serves good Ultimate Experiences. pasta and fish dishes, though it’s Serbia’s capital was given the cocktails and parties that interest number one spot for painting the the majority of visitors. (Source: town red while while Thessaloniki, Tirana in your Pocket). Greece’s second largest city, was given the fifth spot. Prishtina: Spray (Off the According to Lonely Planet, Prishtina-Skopje highway just Serbia is now succeeding in shak- outside of Prishtina). Spray is ing off its bad press. indisputably the best club in The guide wrote: “The long years Kosovo. It attracts some of the of bad press that kept Serbia off the best DJs from across the world to map have now passed, and foreign- its 1500-capacity club, which has ers are now realizing what locals a luxurious garden which would always knew - that Belgrade really not look out of place in Ibiza. rocks. “With an exuberant population Skopje: Club Sektor 909 (City and its legacy as an intellectual centre, Kej Dimitar Vlahov bb). hangout, Belgrade offers varied This club plays Dance, Techno nightlife, ranging from eclectic and House to crowds of up to 400 watering holes for those in the people. It attracts a young trendy know, to the busy restaurants and crowd seeking good local and bars of the Skadarlija district and international DJs. the summer clubs in barges on the Sava and Danube Rivers.”

Photo byPhoto Insight Prishtina for Rrahmani Petrit Podgorica: Porto (ul. Stanka Thessaloniki, a popular destina- Belgrade has been named as the number one party town in the world Dragojevica 34). The classic tion for internationals living in Podgorica club featuring Kosovo, was also lauded for its nightlife during those long months folk-pop). Lonely Planet list, in order of rank- cramped and sweaty conditions nightlife. when more famous Greek destina- “That’s plenty to keep you occu- ing, are Montreal, Buenos Aires, for vertical drinking amidst ram- According to Lonely Planet: tions are deep in hibernation, from pied after you’ve traversed the sub- Dubai, La Paz, Cape Town, Baku, pant, ear-bursting local DJs. If “Greece’s second city has style, arty cafes to Latin bars to discos lime Byzantine churches, museums Auckland and Tel Aviv. this isn’t torture enough, squeeze with plenty of fashionable shops pumping out house music to sala- and ruins. It’s not cheap, but no Here, Prishtina Insight brings your way up the rickety stairs and salons. cious bouzoukia (clubs featuring Greek city save Athens compares.” you some nightlife highlights from and see if you can find any ai “Thessaloniki boasts great twangy, Eastern-flavored Greek The other cities included in the other Balkans cities. By Arif Muharremi • Nov. 27 - Dec. 10, 2009 9 in Prishtina Art & Culture Digging up the Dirt on Novo Brdo’s Gold Fever he Gumnishte fortress was Tbuilt in the 14th century. With 15ft-high walls, it was part of a

Novo Brdo Brdo Novo fortified medieval city. Today, little of the actual fortress remains, although more than enough to give an impression of how imposing it once was. As with many other historical sites in the Balkans, there are two sides to its history. Novo Brdo was once a metropolis, with a huge medieval fortress built on the A forty minute documentary reveals how organised criminals, opportunists and UNMIK police top of an extinct vol- have targeted one of Kosovo’s cultural gems for its gold cano cone. The population at its documentary on the leg- but has also violated the pride of for the KIJAC Institute, where I’m has been targeting the site. Holes endary gold of this small town, a few kilometres a student of journalism, and later of up to four meters in depth have height was estimated ANovobërda/Novo Brdo is from Kosovo’s capital. the ICO expressed an interest, appeared, explained Llapashtica, to exceed 10,000. aiming to promote the preserva- In the 14th Century, Novo Brdo they supported me and I extended which suggest well orchestrated tion and protection of its famous was one of the largest cities in the it to forty minutes,” said operations. There were mines and castle against vandalism and Balkans, with migrants from Llapashtica, who is a cameraman He said that it is extremely diffi- smelting furnaces for destruction. across the region working in the at a local television station in cult to keep the whole area pro- The 40-minute film, which was mines, which produced gold, sil- Prishtina. He added that the only tected, as the heritage site is huge. iron, lead, gold and sil- shown this month at Oda theatre, ver and other precious metals. wealth that Novo Brdo has is its The documentary also focuses tackles the rumours and legends Director Arben Llapashtica says cultural heritage. on the huge tourism potential of ver ores. that have been lingering around he initially embarked on the docu- He said that the International this area and the benefits of Novo Brdo silver is the mythical ‘pot of gold’, which is mentary as part of his course with Civilian Office, ICO, sponsored the investing in the place. claimed to be buried under the KIJAC, a journalism institute in film as Novo Brdo is a protected Novo Brdo is one of the few known by its argen- castle. Prishtina, adding that the passion zone under the Ahtisaari package. places in Kosovo to offer rural tum - an alloy of silver Gold Fever reveals how illegal was high while filming as he spent Around the castle, mosque, and tourism packages where one can excavation, driven by the legend, his childhood in Novo Brdo. catholic and orthodox church enjoy fresh air, healthy eco-food as with a sixth to a third has not only damaged the castle, “I had made this documentary many holes have appeared in well as mountbiking. recent years. It is believed that the “This movie aims to create a of gold. holes have been dug by those base for dialogue between the In 1450, the mines of searching for the pot of gold, local communities, local and cen- Llapashtica said. tral authorities, international Novo Brdo were pro- The documentary investigates organisations and NGOs for pro- ducing about 6,000 kg the vandalism, which can be seen tecting this place in the future as at every corner of the castle, well,” said Llapashtica. of silver per year. The despite it being strictly prohibit- The movie includes fictional fortress came under ed. sequences of the thieves digging Llapashtica also reveals how around the castle in search of the siege for forty days by UNMIK police officers have been ‘treasure’. caught while digging and search- Llapashtica hopes his movie the Ottomans, capitu- ing with a metal detector around will help raise awareness of the lating and becoming the castle, and, according to one of need to protect Kosovo’s cultural the guards at the castle, even tak- heritage. occupied by the ing away some artifacts. “In my opinion, it seems that Ottomans on June 1, But it is not only representa- citizens are not informed of the tives of the United Nations which value of our cultural heritage, 1455. have damaged the cultural her- and, as a result of all this, we have itage at Novo Brdo, recently it is to take care of this important area Mining still takes place Director Arben Llapashtica at work suspected that organised crime of our history,” he said. there today. • Nov. 27 - Dec. 10, 2009 10 Food & Drink A Perfect Balance the available light. The look would be seductive – if the neighbourhood was more appealing. A first glance at the menu suggests By Maneater in Prishtina that Balance serves up the ubiqui- tous and uninspiring Italian/French fusion cuisine of many Prishtina rishtina’s lack of well-struc- eateries. The caprese salad, prosciut- tured urban planning leaves to sandwich, arrabiata pasta, house Pvisitors unfamiliar with the pizza, and steak with mushroom city struggling to escape the small sauce are all there. But among these radius of dining options within overplayed options, I managed to sight of the Grand Hotel. But it’s pick out some dishes with a slightly worth exploring the restaurants more distinctive flair. which are a bit more difficult to find My dining partner and I went for hidden in the city’s many nooks and a Caesar salad, Florentine eggs, and crannies. Balance Restaurant, a wild mushroom pasta combination newish eatery on an uninviting for lunch, all of which arrived street off UCK Boulevard at Qafa, is promptly. The handful of guests – one such venue. mainly employees of neighbouring After avoiding collisions with businesses – were treated to very cars speeding down the narrow attentive service, since the waiters road, and passing an abundance of are still looking to please their illegally constructed-looking build- guests for the venue to graduate out ings, Balance finally appeared on of newbie level. my left, with a cutesy front lawn Putting aside my initial low and distinguished exterior design, expectations, the salad was appetis- byPhoto Insight Prishtina for Rrahmani Petrit reminiscent of a modern boutique ing – comprising rarely seen ice- Balance restaurant in Prishtina office space. berg lettuce, chunks of nicely a brush of olive oil, luscious good white wine could be detected known names of downtown, and But the bright exterior contrasts grilled chicken and homemade spinach and poached egg – a twist in the cream sauce, and the portion offer a new take on some worn-out uncomfortably with Balance’s dark croutons, giving the salad an on the classic Italian recipe. Besides wasn’t too large. Nevertheless, it dining options that have become too and prudish interior, which tries to appealing rustic look. Topped with being loaded with nutrients, the still needs an extra something to repetitive in this city. mimic a gentleman’s club on the fresh parmesan cheese, and not dish was accompanied by a deli- raise it above the standard fare. Washrooms were immaculately Upper East Side. weighed down by too much dress- ciously tangy cheese sauce, serving I can best describe Balance as a clean, and prices were in the range Espresso-coloured wood adorns ing, this meal is a light and refresh- as bed for the toast and topping for wildcard – known dishes, but with of anything expected downtown. the floor, the bar, the tables and the ing option for lunch. the open sandwiches. the possibility of serving up a sur- Dinner for two plus wine 35-45 euro. chairs. Black walls, ceilings and The Florentine eggs also proved Although a dish easy to find in prise. Together with the unfamiliar light fixtures add to the bleakness, pleasingly light, without too many Prishtina, the wild mushroom pasta neighbourhood and small number Balance which is only countered by crème carbohydrates or vast portions. The did have some high points. The of clientele, perhaps this venue will Rr. Perandori Dioklecian wall accents and mirrors which dish consisted of two pieces of mushrooms were fresh, a hint of prove a useful location to escape the 044 455 005 manage to bounce around some of whole-grain toast, each topped with Bistro – A Cut above the Rest MARKETING ince opening on the eve of shrimp and calamari in tagliatelle. Kosovo’s independence, Bistro The seafood was fresh and cooked to Shas established itself as one of perfection, and the sauce of herbs, Prishtina’s top venues for dining. tomatoes, cream and white whine But a new, creative menu, was perfectly balanced. launched last week, marks a new Both plates were immaculately chapter in this highly successful presented in the style you would eatery’s history. expect at top-end restaurants. From fillet mignon served in pep- A special note should also go to the percorn sauce with bone marrow to side-dishes of French gratin with salmon tartar with ginger, mint and sweet potatoes and Asian vegetable aioli, the dishes being delivered hit salad, served with lashings of soya new heights of innovation, presenta- and ginger. tion and taste. And the prices I washed down my fillet mignon remain as affordable as always, with an oaky South African red, ranging from 3.50 euro for a top-class which was excellent value for money salad to 9.50 euro for luxurious slices at 2.90 euro. The house wines change of steak. every evening, and the wine list is The ingredients are both carefully extensive, if you are looking for

sourced to ensure top quality flavour byPhoto Insight Prishtina for Rrahmani Petrit something special. and more varied than you will find Bistro’s new menu sets new standards After a highly satisfying two in most restaurants in Kosovo. courses, my dining companion was areas, meaning that you do not feel The sea fish kebabs were tasty and As our entrée dishes were cleared Bistro is also bringing jazz to its unable to squeeze in one of the deli- forced to earwig on your neighbours tender, and bruschetta, topped with away from the table by Bistro’s inef- clientele each Monday and cious desserts on offer. conversation. It’s the perfect venue sliced calamari and roasted fably efficient staff, we were served a Wednesday, to provide a complete I, on the other hand, pressed on, evening experience. for intimate evenings, both business pepepers, was a cut above the usual spicy shot of gazpacho. These little unable to resist the temptation of My dining partner and I settled and pleasure. toast-and-mess affair served in editions add a new sophistication to cheese cake. down to dinner in the refined atmos- After ordering some aperitifs, we many places in Prishtina. the dining experience at Bistro. The quality of this particular phere that has become one of were quickly presented with two For my dining partner, the For main course I tucked into a sweet was, like the rest of the meal, Bistro’s trademarks. appetizers – a creamy egg-plant and Odyssea salad was a revelation. delectable slice of fillet mignon superb. The sleek lines of the bar, dark feta pâté and a small bowl of rough Described by her as the best salad which was cooked exactly to order – Bistro has always been one of colours and teak flooring give this tapenade, which were the perfect she has had in Kosovo, it combines rare. Prishtina’s most popular venues, but place the aura of a trendy accompaniments to the warm bread salty blue cheese with sweet beet- The succulent slice of meat was with the addition of a varied, imagi- bar/restaurant from one of the on offer. root, roasted peppers, sun flower accompanied by a light pepper sauce, native and perfectly executed menu world’s top dining capitals. For starters, we tried the salmon seeds and pomegranate. The combi- which complemented the delicate and the added bonus of jazz two But it is the airiness of the restau- tartare, bruschetta, Odyssea salad nation was truly memorable, and the taste of the fillet. times a week, this much loved bar rant which really distances itself and sea fish kebabs. dish would make an excellent stand- The dish was served with bone and eatery has managed to improve from other eateries in Kosovo’s capi- The salmon tartar was delivered alone lunch option. Happily for those marrow, an unusual option for on an already winning formula. tal. with an exquisite texture and subtle looking for roughage around midday, Prishtina, which was creamy and The tables are well spaced apart taste, set off by hints of mint, ginger Bistro has had the good sense to delicious. Bistro, Rr.Sejdi Kryeziu, and nicely divided between different and a smooth aioli dressing. include it on the lunch menu. My partner had opted for the +377 44 55 64 44 By Shega A’Mula • Nov. 27 - Dec. 10, 2009 11 in Prishtina Inside Prishtina

The Protection of Monuments Starts at Home

t is of course apposite that Kosovo, while the guest house ing Serbian cultural heritage. be replaced by economic the Kosovo Institute for was demolished and replaced Svirca explains that the incentives such as increasing I the Protection of by a the elementary school “first phase of management” cultural tourism. But after Monuments itself is based in a now known as Elena Gjika. occurred from 1949 to 1960, 1990, as tensions rose through- monument. The mid-nine- The Kogjadishi home has when many Albanian heritage out the region, the politicisa- teenth century house com- since lived through numerous sites were destroyed all tion of cultural heritage plex, once owned by an aristo- regimes, conflicts and conse- around the country. increased again, and the cratic Albanian family deport- quently, dwellers. Baki Svirca, “The old city, various destruction of Albanian mon- ed to Turkey in the late 1940s, current director of the Kosovo mosques, the synagogue and a uments continued until the is tucked away on a nonde- Institute for the Protection of Catholic church were all end of the conflict in 1999. script street on Prishtina’s old Monuments, told Prishtina destroyed just in Prishtina “The regime tried to change town. Insight that the institute’s during this period,” he said. the past, and obviously the byPhoto Insight Prishtina for Rrahmani Petrit The large parcel of land main goal between 1949 and In the period 1960 to 1974, present, for its own political owned by the then very power- 1999 was to politicise the pro- the cultural destruction con- gains,” said Svirca. ful Kogjadishi family, which tection of Kosovo’s monu- tinued, but numerous Serbian Perhaps most importantly, Shop Review: once consisted of a family ments. Orthodox Churches were at the end of the war in 1999 home and guest house for visi- “The institute was always built, paraded as being from the archive was missing, tors, was taken over by politicised and used as a tool earlier centuries, which moved to Belgrade. Lulja Yugoslav authorities in 1949. to realise various political according to Svirca, happened “The archive had so many That same year, the family endeavours,” he said, empha- so that they could be “given valuable documents, pictures, home was converted into the sising the Yugoslav regime’s monument status”. letters, diaries and other Institute for the Protection of aim of inhibiting Albanian The politicisation dimin- information. We have request- Tailor’s Monuments for the province of cultural heritage and promot- ished between 1974 and 1990, to ed that it be returned to the institute, but have not ith all the upcoming holiday festivi- received it, or any sort of ties, parties and functions, Prishtina reply either,” said Svirca. WInsight has been to find its readers an However, what has remained English-speaking tailor - and one with the is the library, and most of the trade coursing through his blood. Let me complex’s original architec- introduce you to Valon Limani, inheritor of ture. There was almost no the 40-year-old Lulja tailor’s shop. damage done during the war, Valon Limani, now owner of the shop locat- and restoration efforts are ed on top of the ‘Kuriz’ in the neighbourhood planned for the future. of Dardania, followed in his father’s footsteps “A conservation project to and entered the family trade. His father had restore the grounds of the been working as a tailor for over 40 years. institute has been approved, Limani told Prishtina Insight that the shop and will begin sometime next does clothing adjustments for men, woman, year,” said Svirca. and children, and that includes just about any- Even before the restoration thing that can be sewn. The walls of the shop begins, the grounds are beau- are lined with coats, dresses, trousers, and tiful, and house three other other apparel awaiting the magic touch of the buildings from the early 20th Limani family. century in the style of the 19th The shop boasts six sewing machines, and a century architecture of the large changing room. Most importantly, the original home. Visitors are family is extremely friendly and very experi- welcome and can take a tour of enced at their profession. the home which still holds Prices for their services vary, but specific original furnishings and décor suit tailoring can reach 100 euro. The shop at any time of day. The works Monday to Saturday, well into the

Photo byPhoto Insight Prishtina for Rrahmani Petrit Institute is on Rr. Zenel evening. Call Valon Limani at 044 296 572 for The Institute for the Protection of Monuments Salibu. more information. Bar Review: Mezeria Sports Bar ith the countless screen TVs. Mezeria Sports tails such as a bloody Mary or number of betting Bar was the venue – and the a pomegranate martini. My Wbars located in the venue was packed. French Merlot went down neighbourhood of Pejton, it’s Sports equipment, memo- perfectly with a thick crusted been a matter of time bea rabilia and other items cover pizza off the menu. few proper sports bars, the masculine-coloured ever- Other food options include intact with draft beers, green walls, and stain- Italian classics such as veg- sports-style food and big glassed detailed ceiling. etable risotto, steak arrabbia- screen TVs would prop up in Meanwhile, equally mannish ta, salads from Caesar to the area. dark furnishing such as the, tuna, and the usual burgers, Minutes before the start of bar, bar stools, dining tables fries and other carb-loaded the Manchester United vs. and chairs swathe the area, favourites. Chelsea premiership game and are mainly accompanied And with a large satellite on Sunday, one friend went male guests. housed directly over the off to place a bet a couple of Nevertheless, a few female entrance, expect to be able to houses down the street, spectators (including myself) tune into international another ordered a large serv- were comfortably able to matches from the NBA, NHL, ing of chicken fingers and a drink up with the boys, and NFL, Serie A, La Liga, Rugby round of beer for everyone, shout when Wayne Rooney and more. Owner Visa while team-kitted visitors missed a shot. Among a range Gervalla will happily take

began arriving and taking of beer options, European your request on the day of the byPhoto Insight Prishtina for Rrahmani Petrit seat in front of the flat wines, speciality made cock- game. Mezeria, a new sport’s bar in Pejton 12 • Nov. 27 - Dec. 10, 2009 neighbourhood

Bosnian Leaders Ponder New Western Proposal

osnian leaders are pondering a revised package of constitu- Btional changes offered to them by European Union and US negotia- tors, in their latest attempt to help News in Brief News end country’s political deadlock. The Western negotiating team met Bosniak (Bosnian Muslim) and Croat leaders in on Tuesday, and is meeting Bosnian Serb officials in Banja Luka on Wednesday, in order to present a new version of a reform package that has been discussed since early October. “The new proposal is significantly below the initial version of the Butmir constitutional package and as such is unacceptable to the Social Democratic Party (SDP),” said the main opposition SDP party in its statement following the meeting in Sarajevo. Photo byPhoto Insight Prishtina for Rrahmani Petrit Roma face discrimination in Albania

Patriarch Pavle

Jobs Remain Distant Serbia’s Patriarch to Be Elected in January

he Holy Synod of the Serbian Dream for Albania Roma Orthodox Church announced Tthat a new head of the institu- Illiteracy and discrimination often cuts Albanian Roma out of the employment market and they say authorities are tion is expected to be elected on 22 January. doing to little to help. Serbia’s Orthodox Patriarch Pavle passed away at the age of 95 on per cent of the workforce. paid work. The local market Deputy Minister of Labour, November 15. He died at the Belgrade However, according to a World where they sell used garments Filloreta Kodra, said. military hospital, to which he was Bank study, the unemployment has been closed several times by Despite government assur- admitted on 13 November, 2007, due By Blerina Moka to poor health. Bishop Irinej then in Tirana figure is three-times as high the municipality. ances that help is on the way, among the Roma. Nine out every “Many [Roma] complain that many Roma complain that they announced that Bishop Amfilohije ten Roma of working age lack sta- they are forced to send their chil- are still victims of discrimina- will serve as acting patriarch until Every god-given day I won- ble employment. dren on the street to beg because tion and most doubt anything new elections. der how I’m going to feed my The percentage of illiteracy they cannot find a job,” Meleqe will change in the near future. Candidates for the new patriarch “family,” says Vera Shaku, a among Roma is as also high at Rrenja, who works as a teacher Some of the Roma families in have all had five years of eparchy 40-year-old mother of six-chil- 52.4 per cent, while it has been for the NGO, said. the camp say that although they service. The names of the three bish- dren who looks older than her evaluated that about 40 per cent “If the market where men and have registered for welfare aid, ops who receive the most votes will age. of Roma families send their chil- women from the camp are their applications have been be put into separate envelopes and Her husband has been paral- dren out to work to ensure the employed is closed [again], I’m turned down by social workers. placed inside the Holy Gospel. The ysed for years, and like many family’s primary needs are met. afraid they will end up begging “I have knocked repeatedly on Holy Gospel is then placed at the holy other Roma women in Albania Often they force them to drop out on the street together with their the doors of the local authorities throne in the church. her own employment possibili- of school. children,” says Selvije Rushiti, with whom I’ve been registered ties are virtually non-existent. According to the head of the executive director of A Mother’s for 15 years but they just tell me Romania Opposition “Hunger has become a common technical secretariat in the Heart. to come another day,” a woman fact of life for us,” says Vera, one Ministry of Labour, Blerina Under pressure from the from the camp complained. Sign Presidential Deal of many residents of a camp sited Tepelena, the number of Roma European Union, which Albania However, Armond Halebi, head in a barracks on the outskirts of registering in unemployment desperately wants to join, the gov- of the municipality that covers omania’s two main opposition the Albanian capital, Tirana, offices in search of jobs has ernment in Tirana recently that camp, says the level of parties on Wednesday formal- squeezed between the Lana river grown in 2009. approved an action plan, named requests for aid from Roma is so Rly signed a political deal to and new high-rise developments. “In 2009 alone we had 2,637 reg- The Roma Decade, which aims to high and the funds at the disposal support Mircea Geoana in the presi- Like Vera and her family, most istering with local employment develop mid and long-term strate- of the municipality so few that dential run-off scheduled for 6 of the camp residents are unem- offices,” she said, adding that gies to improve the social condi- the possibility of answering their December. ployed and their only way to hundreds of others had trained tion of the Roma minority. requests positively is virtually The center-right National Liberal make ends meet is scavenging for in various professions. Estimates of the Roma popula- impossible. Party, PNL, and left-leaning Social scrap metal and panhandling. Few get anywhere by register- tion in Albania range from a few “We review three or four Democratic Party,PSD, also agreed to Many complain that although ing with the employment offices, thousands to tens of thousands. requests a day, but the possibility form a governmental majority and they make every effort to find however. “I have registered with Government experts say that a of including them [the appli- endorse the mayor of the central city employment the authorities and the local employment office but major problem with the Roma is cants] in the welfare aid system of Sibiu, Klaus Johannis, an inde- employers give them little help. never received a job offer from that they tend not to register with remains next to zero,” he said. pendent politician proposed by the Even worse, they are not eligible them,” Ramadan, a resident of the authorities. Because of this With a new drive to get Roma to Liberals, as prime minister of the for unemployment benefit. the camp, complained. they are unable to apply for wel- register on the way, the struggle new government. Albania emerged from the Like many of his neighbours in fare from social services. for a slice of those scarce funds is The coalition is also supported by Stalinist regime of Enver Hoxha the camp, he wakes at dawn to The Ministry of Labour has bound to get fiercer. In the mean- the party of ethnic Hungarians in in 1991 with a collapsed economy. collect cans from trashcans for now initiated a project with the time, the plight of Vera and her Romania. Despite considerable progress in recycling. Interior Ministry to encourage children, and their daily battle Complete results of presidential recent years in facing a difficult According to the Roma rights Roma families to register. “This for survival, remains the same. elections held on Sunday shows and often tumultuous transition organisation, A Mother’s Heart, process will allow us to intervene incumbent president Traian Basescu to democracy, the unemployment winning 32 per cent of votes against rate remains high at around 30 the authorities in Albania do lit- in many fields such as poverty, Blerina Moka is a reporter for tle to get Roma into the world of education and employment,” the Top-News TV. Geoana’s 31 per cent. opinion • Nov. 27 - Dec. 10, 2009 13

the international community Republika Srpska: may be forced reluctantly to accept it. Short of military inter- Dear Teta Mia... vention, there is little choice. Russia would veto UN sanctions. After Independence The EU may not recognise RS Bosnia’s gradual disintegration appears inevitable. The only question is how the passports and other documents; but the population would bear Teta Mia solves your problems international community will, and should, react to this process. the brunt of this. Current foreign money to withhold and no troops nity do when it happens? investors in the RS, many of to send, the High Representative Bosniak politicians may urge whom are from the EU, would can do little to constrain him. the High Representative to dis- lobby against economic isola- My boyfriend got drunk and dumped me in by Matthew Parish The State Police are few, divid- miss Dodik, “annul” independ- tion. front of all my friends because he saw me ed ethnically and no match for ence, and perhaps rewrite the Isolation of an independent RS with another guy, but nothing happened I Dodik’s RS Police. Bosnia has no Bosnian constitution to abolish will prove difficult and unlikely swear! He then asked me to get back together n eighth state is about to army of substance. The RS con- Republika Srpska or eradicate to achieve any significant result. with him in the morning because his father emerge from Yugoslavia. trols its own tax revenues and the consociational voting system. If formal recognition of an said we had a prenuptial agreement which we AThe process will be can financially withdraw from Such a radical course is tempt- independent Republika Srpska couldn’t break. I’m so confused and I don’t painful. People may die, and the rest of the country without ing, but exceptionally dangerous. by Western Europe and the US is know whether I can trust him anymore. And diplomatic isolation may follow. significant sanction. In such a scenario, Bosniaks unrealistic, there are some prag- he says he doesn’t know if he can trust me. The international community’s might take up arms. The flash- matic steps that Western powers What should I do? choices in the aftermath of these Dodik’s agenda point would be Brcko, the free can take to mitigate conflict in events will be critical to the wel- city formerly administered by the event of Bosnia’s collapse. A jilted lover, Prishtina fare of all the people of the Dodik’s short-term agenda is the US government but which While de facto independence region. Fundamentally, it will be to detach Republika Srpska from has since been abandoned. may be inevitable, any act of dec- h dear me. This is a pretty mess! a matter of choosing the lesser central state institutions. This The greatest impediment to RS laration of de jure independence You must be feeling very insecure evil. will be easy, because central gov- independence is geography: its – which might incite Bosniaks to Oright now, and worrying about Since the 1995 Dayton peace ernment and indeed the Dayton elongated territory is difficult to take up arms, and Croats to what your friends think of you – and of your agreement divided Bosnia- Constitution incorporate “conso- defend and Brcko is at its weak- themselves secede – should be boyfriend. I am very concerned by some of Herzegovina into two highly ciationalist” principles, whereby est point. Bosniaks might postponed indefinitely.If the aim the things you write in your letter. autonomous “entities”, it was decisions can only be taken by reclaim the officially neutral ter- is delay, the international com- First, what sort of boyfriend is he that he manifest that Republika Srpska consensus of all three ethnic ritory by force, seeking to cut the munity can do nothing better takes such a momentous decision to split up had pretensions towards state- groups. Provided he continues to RS in two. The international than to leave the country alone, with you after drinking alcohol? Surely this hood. To pursue this objective, control most Serb officials, Dodik community could then send a at least for now. sort of decision should only be taken after the Office of the High can block every decision of sub- small military force into Brcko, The international community cold sober deliberation in daylight hours. Representative (OHR) was given stance. ostensibly to prevent conflict. must restrain Bosniaks from Your boyfriend does not seem responsible broad powers to dismiss officials, The writ of the State Police With Croatia’s support, the fighting to prevent the disinte- enough to deserve your affection. impose legislation, and freeze and the State Court already runs borders with the western RS gration of their country. Secondly, you say he did it in front of all parties’ bank accounts. weakly in Republika Srpska, could be closed, encircling the However much one may sympa- your friends. Is this how you found out about But then two things changed. which has its own police, courts, capital Banja Luka with hostile thise with the Bosniaks’ situa- it? I’m really worried that he’s not treating Everyone who could be deported tax system and legal regime. The neighbours. But this is a risky tion, their aspiration of a unified you respectfully. What did your friends say? to The Hague had been – so the theoretically unified State strategy. What would be the exit Bosnia governed by majority Were they as surprised as it seems you were? threat of prosecuting Bosnian Border Service is almost exclu- strategy for the foreign troops? rule is can only happen while the Thirdly, it’s disturbing that you and your Serb politicians at the sively manned by Serb officials Moreover, Serbia might supply international community runs boyfriend had an agreement but that he did- International Criminal Tribunal where Bosnia’s borders fall with- material aid to Bosnia’s Serbs. the country as a colony. n’t seem to be aware of its terms. And lastly, for Yugoslavia (ICTY) disap- in RS territory. The international community For international politicians does he do everything his father tells him? peared, and the wartime Bosnian Whereas politics in the must reckon with its own weak- familiar with the injustices of Because it isn’t really his father’s business, Serb political party, the Serb Federation is divided between ness if it is to make sound policy Bosnia’s first war, this is an is it? Democratic Party, SDS, was squabbling politicians from two decisions. The High unpalatable message. But the But it doesn’t seem that it was all his fault. emasculated, leading to the rise ethnic groups, five major politi- Representative’s recent strategy time is long past for pursuit of What were you doing with the other guy? of Milorad Dodik, a Bosnian cal parties and ten cantons, poli- is to engage in domestic politics perfect moral ideals. The danger You say that nothing happened – but it does- Serb politician untainted by par- tics in the RS is remarkably uni- with Dodik: to use such institu- of catastrophe unfolding in n’t look like that to me. Two people in a rela- ticipation in the war. tary. tions as he has at his disposal Bosnia is real and the aim must tionship need to trust each other, so if you’re Second, international interest The current High against him, to weaken and to be to prevent a second Bosnian talking to other guys, you need to make it in Bosnia waned, and the devel- Representative, Austria’s distract him. But this approach war. The least bad option is to totally clear that you have no romantic opment funds needed to keep Valentin Inzko, dares not dismiss has no end game. Sooner or later preside over Bosnia’s inevitable intentions. I’m not quite sure from your let- state institutions operating dried Dodik lest Dodik make good on the international officials will disintegration with a moderat- ter whether your boyfriend is right to have up. The central state increasing- his threat to march 50,000 demon- leave; Dodik will stay. ing hand, ensuring it happens been so jealous. ly relied on the tax system, strators to Sarajevo. Moreover, Alternatively, the internation- slowly, so its citizens become And why did you take him back so easily? chronically inefficient and cor- by Bosnian Serb standards, al community could abandon accustomed to the evolving polit- Don’t you think that you could have been a rupt, for funds. These two fac- Dodik is a moderate. Dodik’s hard power in Bosnia and let ical landscape. In this unenviable bit more assertive? I get the impression you tors, combined with a withdraw- plan for the RS is incremental. domestic politicians make of position into which the interna- are in the weaker position of the two of you, al of foreign peacekeeping By the time the RS is de facto Bosnia what they can. There is tional community has manoeu- but your problem is that while your troops, coalesced just as Dodik independent, already not far off, plenty of commercial activity vred itself, this is the best we can boyfriend looks a bit silly for acting so rash- became Prime Minister of the international community between Bosnia’s entities, sug- now do. ly,you also look a bit pathetic for letting him Republika Srpska in January will barely have noticed. gesting an economic rationale treat you like this. 2006. for retaining a common curren- Matthew Parish was formerly These are my concerns. Your relationship Tough, shrewd, uninterested The international com- cy, common transport and infra- Chief Legal Adviser to the is definitely going to need a lot of trust- in democracy, and determined to munity’s response structure, free movement of International Supervisor of building if it is to survive. Perhaps you elevate his nation’s status, Dodik goods, people and services, har- Brcko. His book on international should try counselling. You also need to look monised legal systems, and even intervention in post-war Bosnia, frustrates the High If therefore the independence at the plus points as well as the negatives of a common regime of indirect A Free City in the Balkans: Representative’s every endeav- of Republika Srpska looks staying together. taxation. Reconstructing a Divided Society our.The High Representative can increasingly inevitable, what For instance, does your boyfriend con- If and when some act of de in Bosnia, is published by I.B. dismiss Dodik. But with no should the international commu- tribute his fair share to your relationship? jure independence does occur, Tauris. Does he help with the laundry, does he open doors for you like a gentleman? Is he faithful to you, or does he have relationships with other women? Are you faithful to him? I Where is the prosecution? mean, really, truly faithful? Is he able to issues to the stealing of thousands of euro. enough evidence to begin investigations on make decisions about your relationship him- Maybe again, someone will say: “Their the basis of these public declarations. self or does he always ask his friends and accusations were not serious - this was just an Candidates have publicly provided the fig- relatives what they think? Do your friends By Muhamet Hajrullahu election campaign, the same as all the others.” ures of huge amounts of money that were approve of your relationship? Do you talk to But it’s not like that. These public, televised badly managed or stolen during the bidding each other – I mean properly talk? Is he good- accusations by the majority of candidates process. A lack of a reaction from the looking? Does he make you laugh? he elections are over – well, almost. The included devious use of public money i.e. Prosecutor’s Office or other investigation You need to weigh up the pros and cons of TV debates with mayoral candidates from money from the Kosovo budget, running into units including EULEX in urgently launching staying together, although it sounds to me Tall municipalities are also over. Some will the thousands of euro, giving away or selling investigations on these bases would be a huge like your relationship has fundamental prob- sigh, “Thank goodness the elections are over municipality properties without following failure for the rule of law in Kosovo. lems which will take a lot of effort on both because we are tired of these empty promises.” proper procedures, awarding tenders without They need to react immediately - because sides to resolve. But here’s one way of judg- As a spectator who followed all these debates, any procedures, and poor management of they have a lot to do, don’t they? ing whether it’s worth the effort: Will he do on all TV channels, I noticed that so many of the goods under the legal authority of mayors. it again? candidates accused and criticised each other for So now, more than ever, the Prosecutor’s Muhamet Hajrullahu is a journalist almost everything, from the smallest local Office and the Anti-Corruption Agency have for BIRN Kosovo. 14 • Nov. 27 - Dec. 10, 2009 If you would like your NGO to appear in our Making a Difference feature, please NGO Focus email [email protected] Unveiling Discrimination in Kosovo he wearing of headscarves at Since 2002, more then 10,000 citi- schools is a sensitive issue in zens have received legal advice or TKosovo. legal aid through CLARD. One young woman from Gjilan “The number is high also this was recently banned from attending year. It’s around 2,300. We cannot classes because of her outward dis- accept all of them,” said legal advi- play of faith. sor Shala-Rama. But the NGO CLARD led a case to The organisation’s main legal court on her behalf, claiming that activities attempt to address prob- she was being discriminated lems in the fields of civil law and against. “She was not allowed to go administrative law. to school because she was wearing a CLARD has represented a num- veil,” Arbane Shala-Rama, legal ber of people who were not includ- advisor at CLARD, told Prishtina ed in the list of people eligible for Insight. the 20 per cent windfall from the The complaint against the school sale of the socially owned enter- was taken to the Supreme Court – prises. Many had been struck off but was later sent back to Gjilan because they had left the public after the higher institution ducked firm just a few years before the the difficult question. sale. Eventually, Gjilan municipal “The list of 20 per cent from the court found in favour of the young privatisation of social enterprises woman, and she has now returned should be changed by the Supreme to school. Court of Kosovo,” said Shala-Rama. “The girl, after one year of “If a person worked for 30 years absence from school, is now back in an enterprise, but was not there with the veil on her head,” said in the last three years prior to pri- Shala-Rama. vatisation [ and receives nothing], Photo byPhoto CLARD In the meantime, the Ministry of One of CLARD’s programmes to help job-seekers this is discrimination,” added Education has approved a directive, Arbane. forbidding the wearing of religious seekers. property rights documents and civil “Last year we had 70 people, of “Every second or third person in clothes in schools. CLARD has inherited these activ- registration for potential returnees. which 40 found a job,” Delphine Kosovo is discriminated against. The Centre for Legal Aid and ities from the Spanish NGO MPDL – CLARD has ‘information points’ in Liegeois, the programme manager, People should know that there is a Regional Development, CLARD, is Movement for Peace, which has seven towns, including in three told Prishtina Insight. law now on anti-discrimination in an NGO based in Prishtina, which worked in Kosovo since 2002. Serb-majority areas. The organisation works in coop- Kosovo,” she added. promotes and protects human The organisation provides legal The CLARD ‘social programme’ eration with the Ministry of Liegeois said: “People come to us rights, as well as providing legal assistance to internally displaced includes vocational training, with Labour and Social Welfare and its and we are a bridge between them advice and services to vulnerable people, refugees and returnees, par- the latest courses focusing on vocational centres. “We analyse the and institutions.” individuals. ticularly helping them with docu- nanny and web designer skills. market in Kosovo and see what is The organisation also offers a mentation. Many of the previous trainees are complementary, then we organise For more information visit ‘social programme’ to Kosovo job- This includes the completion of now employed. the training,” said Liegeois. www.clardkosovo.org.

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Address: "Metush Krasniqi" no. Phone: +381 (0) 38 244 886 367924851

Austrian Danish Greek 14 498351672 Address: "Ismail Qemajli" no. 68

Address: "Ahmet Krasniqi" no. 22 Address: "Nene Teresa" no. 2 Arbëria /Dragodan, 10000 Swedish

Arbëria /Dragodan, 10000 Arbëria /Dragodan, 10000 10000 Prishtina Prishtina Address: "Ekrem Rexha" no. 6 921473568 Prishtina

Prishtina Phone: +381 (0) 38 249 995 Phone: +381 (0) 38 226 787 Arbëria /Dragodan, 10000 Phone: +381 (0) 38 249 284 Phone: +381 (0) 38 243 013 Prishtina 675218493

German Malaysian Phone: +381 (0) 245 795 Dutch 834596217 Belgian Adress: "Azem Jashanica" no. 17 Address: "Bedri Shala" no. 48 Address:" Xhemal Berisha" no. 12 Address: "Taslixhe" I, 23 A Arbëria /Dragodan, 10000 10000 Prishtina Swiss Velania, 10000 Prishtina 10000 Pristina Prishtina Phone: +381 (0) 38 243 467 Address: "Adrian Krasniqi" no. 11 Phone: +381 (0) 38 224 61 Medium

Phone: +381 (0) 38 734 734 Phone: +381 (0) 38 254 500 Norwegian 10000 Prishtina Address: "Sejdi Kryeziu" no. 6 Phone: +381 (0) 38 248 088 685317924

Finnish Italian 10000 Prishtina British 291845736 Address: "Eduard Lir" no. 50 Address: "Azem Jashanica" no.5 Phone: +381 (0) 38 232 111 00 Turkish

Address: "Ismail Qemajli" no. 6

Address: "Ismail Qemajli" no. 59 Arbëria /Dragodan, 10000 Arbëria /Dragodan, 10000 473926185 Arbëria /Dragodan, 10000 Prishtina Saudia Arabian Arbëria /Dragodan, 10000

Prishtina Prishtina

Phone: +381 (0) 38 223 775 Phone: +381 (0) 38 244 925 Address: Dardania SU 7, building Prishtina 754139862

Phone: +381 (0) 38 254 700 2, #1 Phone: +381 (0) 38 226 044

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36 85439 8 94 8 496128735

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674 57 793 754631892 7 12 24 169782453 By Visar Hapçiu • Nov. 27 - Dec. 10, 2009 15 in Prishtina Timeout Contact Prishtina Insight if you would like your event to feature or to advertise your venue. Email [email protected] Prishtina Diary

Friday,November 27, Primary school Cinema 5 PM (Part of the “Hasan Prishtina”- French film week) Promotion of a book ABC Cinema- “Lift written by Hasan to the Scaffold”, a Prishtina with guest movie by Louis Malle speakers (Albin Kurti, Hysamedin Feraj and Friday,November 27, Shkëlzen Gashi). 7 PM (Part of the French film week) Saturday,November ABC Cinema- “Tell 28, 10 PM No One”, a movie by Square 21- Dj Tonny Guillaume Canet Touch from USA (Rerun) (Ticket price: 20 euro – free drinks all night) Friday,November 27, 9:30 PM (Part of the Saturday,November rom November 25 to French film week) 28, 11 PM November 29, ABC Cinema ABC Cinema- “The Fwelcomes the French Film Spray Club- FLAG Week. On this occasion, five Horseman on the party with SKILLZ movies will be shown, including a Roof”, a movie by cartoon for children. All films are and DJ KONT subtitled in English and entrance Jean-Paul Rappeneau is free. The French film week has (Rerun) Sunday,November 29, become a tradition for the ABC Cinema, and this is the ninth edi- 7 PM (Part of French tion to be held. You can find more Friday,November 27, film week) information about when these 9 PM movies are to be shown on this ABC Cinema- The page. The movie “2012” which, Odyssea Bistro Bar- closing night of attracted many fans to the cinema Bajram night with Zig in recent weeks, will be back on French film week: Zag Orchestra November 30. The French Film “Cinema and Music” Week continues in Mitrovica after November 29. Friday,November 27, Sunday,November 30 11 PM to December 2 Spray Club- Danny “Rexhep Mitrovica” Danny Howells at Spray Club Howells all night long Pristina In Cultural Center- pray Club has been quiet for the last held residencies at places such as Arc, few months, but the team is reuniting Ministry of Sound, The End and Bedrock, French film week con- Your Saturday,November Sto bring us an internationally renown as well as holding his own Dig Deeper tinues in Mitrovica. DJ for a very special night. On Friday, nights worldwide. Danny Howell’s most 28, 11 AM (Part of November 27, Danny Howells will be per- recent recording was his contribution to Pocket city French film week) forming at Spray for a passionate mass that Renaissance’s legendary Mix Collection Starting from have been waiting quite a long time to get series, released in September 2008. ABC Cinema- work- guide November 25 2009, back to the venue. Prishtina Orchestra will With just 600 tickets available, it is advis- shop “Cine Concert” also be performing as special guests. able to book in advance. Tickets can be 8:30 PM with the students of Howells is a dedicated and hardworking bought at DEEPO club for 6 euro or at Spray Odyssea Bistro Bar- DJ, with 18 years of experience. During for 8 euro. As Spray stated on their the Music Academy of these years he has developed a unique style Facebook announcement: “Save Your Special Jazz nights Prishtina of his own, which enabled him to be one of money starting now. This is the night where every Monday and the most sought after DJs in the world. He we all get back together in our house – has played in the world’s coolest clubs and Spray Club.” Saturday,November Wednesday during 28, 2 PM (Part of this winter. French film week) ABC Cinema- “Cine Tuesday,December 1, Concert”, live music 8 PM while transmitting Stacion- Improvised silent animation music with Michel movies Doneda and Jonas Kocher Saturday,November 28, 7 PM (Part of Sunday,December 6 New issue for sale at French film week) to December 9 Dukagjini and Dit e ABC Cinema- “Jet Kosovo National Nat Lag”, a movie by Theater and Assitej For more info tel. Daniele Thompson, (from Sweden)- 3 +38 649 173 447 starring Jean Reno intensive workshops on theater manage- http://pristina.iny- ment, directing, act- Saturday,November ourpocket.com 28, 11 AM ing and drama. 16 • Nov. 27 - Dec. 10, 2009 marketing