DETAILS

Newsletter published by The OSCE Mission in Kosovo Volume 7 - Edition 4 - October 2004 Voters Look to More than Just Colourful Promises As the election campaign offi cially opened, a small donkey named Polly strolled in Pristina’s city centre garnering the attention of the passers by who stopped to either stroke it or just wonder at the donkey’s message.

By Zana Limani and Driton Maliqi, IWPR The donkey was walking under huge post- ers picturing main political fi gures and containing various slogans covering almost every billboard in the city and the walls of public buildings. Those with the donkey were representatives of ‘Levizja.com,’ a youth movement push- ing for social changes. They introduced their four-legged friend as a mock indepen- dent candidate in the election with a banner wrapped around it that said ‘Vote for me, as I guarantee you independence.’ Krenar Gashi, a 21 year old and one of the founders of Levizja said that the point of the activity was to show that people are sick and tired of voting for the empty promises of politicians, who think that they can run an election campaign having only indepen- dence on the agenda. “People are laughing at this joke but they should really cry because that is really whatever politician we choose is likely to only profi t personally from the position in the government,” said Gashi. Florim Beqiri, disappointed with what the government had done for the past three years. Photo: Hasan Sopa/OSCE IN THIS ISSUE: Krenar’s disappointment in local institu- Beqiri is convinced that the root of the insti- Challenges abound for tions has gone to the point that he does not tutional problems in the Kosovan society lie in the deeply corrupted party structure. Electorate pg. 4 feel it is worth voting at all. However, not many people believe that “The parties have become a sort of busi- boyco ing elections is an answer to Koso- ness,” said Beqiri. “They only work for their Reconstruction programme vo’s problems. own benefi t and they don’t keep their prom- enters final stage pg. 9 Florim Beqiri, a 32 year old book-seller, said ises.” he was going to vote, even though he was But for Beqiri, the hopes lay with the new Students look for deeply disappointed with what the govern- parties and movements that have emerged ment had done for the past three years. during this year. new reforms pg. 10 “Many of our politicians gave promises Arsim Mexhuvani, standing next to Beqiri based on people’s low expectations; know- also selling books has much the same opin- Media gets its fourth test pg. 11 ing that people are not educated due to a ion about the institutions. He said that local poor education system in Kosovo in the last institutions have failed, beside many things, 15 years most of the population is not aware to make any improvement in the cultural to ask for the rights, freedoms and services and education areas. osce it should enjoy from the state,” said Beqiri. Continues on pg. 3 1 DETAILS EDITORIAL In most societies, elections oft en are a test tant to the public, such as job creation, for government in power, to see if voters education, health and many more such feel if those in power have done a good issues. This was because it was felt that the job or not. Elections are the most visible public should expect answers and solutions, form of accountability but this is something not just promises and slogans, from their that all people should be involved in at all political leadership. The Assembly and the time between elections. People should be Government have great responsibility for involved in decision-making processes. improving the situation in Kosovo. In this way, Kosovo is no diff erent. As this In general, with some exceptions, this has not edition of Details is being published we are happened. Debates and rallies have followed in the middle of an election campaign for the usual pa ern of previous elections of the next Assembly of Kosovo. The Assembly promises and slogans. What people deserve Sven Lindholm are answers and solutions. and Government have been in power for Spokeperson, OSCE Mission in Kosovo three years. This election can be seen as test Elections are important. This election is im- on how they have done, and in here you can portant. This election will result in a new read of a number of issues which are of great Assembly and Government which will ha- concern to the average person. Governance ve great responsibility for improving the Dear Details readers, has been in the hands of these institutions situation in Kosovo and taking it on the path who have received from the people the laid out through the standards. Each voter is Accountability is defi ned as being required responsibility to rule. responsible for his or her future, and you are or expected to justify actions or decisions. the ones holding the parties and politicians Government at all levels should be held When this campaign began, the OSCE accountable. Political leaders should give accountable for what it does, otherwise it expressed its hope that all political entities answers and solutions. This can only help could do what it wanted and not consider would contest for votes in a democratic voters make an informed choice on 23 what the people want or even need. manner and address issues that are impor- October.

Shpend October DETAILS Newsletter published by The OSCE

OSCE HQ, 38000 Prishtinë / Priština, Kosovo Tel: +381 38 500 162 Fax: +381 38 500 188 E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.osce.org/kosovo Publisher: Sven Lindholm Managing Editor: Chris Cycmanick Senior Editors: Hasan Sopa, Armend Tahirsylaj (Detaje) Slavisa Mladenović (Detalji) Layout & drawings: Shpend Kada Contributors: Arben Hajredinaj, Magdalena Hejzyk, Rexhep Krasniqi, Fatime Lepaja, Zana Limani, Driton Maliqi, Gëzim Rexha, Halide Sadiku, Mevlyde Salihu, Ardiana Sejdiu, Vasilija Stanić, Bernard Vrban osce Mission in Kosovo

Disclaimer: The views expressed and the presentation of the material published do not necessarily represent the policies, opinions or positions of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo.

2 DETAILS Elections

function within the Assembly as well as to the Government’s hesitation in sponsoring laws. PDK, whose mo o is ‘Work, State, Dignity’, promises to decrease the unemployment from 70 to 40 percent in four years, if they win the elections. Xhavit Haliti, head of the electoral centre for PDK said “PDK will engage in creat- ing con-ditions for a be er life and opening new jobs.” But, according to Haliti, education and cul- ture will by no means be left behind. If PDK wins, the Ministry of Culture will invest in building and developing theatre, opera and ballet, while the Ministry of Education will provide more scholarships for outstanding students. One of the new political subjects, partici- pating for the fi rst time in an election, the citizens initiative ‘ORA’, criticises the Pro- visional Institutions for bringing Kosovo in this sate of depression and stagnation. Photo: “Levizja” According to them, the parties in power have proven for the last fi ve years that they Continued from pg. 1 people see no benefi t to participating,” the cannot off er a good life and perspective to UNDP report makes clear. “In order to citizens, with the politics they have been fol- “So why should I vote for them,” said Me- revise this trend, the population needs to be lowing. xhuvani. “They had four years to prove convinced that they can infl uence the politi- themselves and failed miserably. Just look Labinot Salihu, a representative from ORA cal process.” at the failing economy and the unsolved said that their goal was to get Kosovo out of issue of status. They have tied their own The main party, Democratic League of this closed circle of degradation and stagna- shoe laces.” Kosovo, LDK, which has 48 out of 120 seats tion and lead it to the modern world. in parliament, have started their electoral But the general feeling is very distinguish- “Many involved in ORA, are activists of able. People feel neglected by their parties campaign with the mo o ‘Freedom, Inde- civic society, and are in touch with citi- and feel that the parties do not address most pendence, Democracy.’ zens’ everyday problems and troubles,” of their problems. Melihate Termkolli, head of the electoral said Salihu. “Many parties neglect citizens’ needs and engage for them only during “They just beg for our votes,” said Fetij e, centre for LDK, was not convinced that peo- ple’s disappointment is going to translate election times or when they need something a 20 year old student, “instead of earning from them.” them with their work.” itself in the loss of votes for LDK. But, the new parties face great challenges to “There has been progress in several areas The power cuts and lack of water, which convince the voters who tend to give their and we have done everything that was in have become almost routine, in many areas vote to parties with more tradition. Some our hands to improve the situation. The of Kosovo, present an everyday problem. fear the lack of experience of the new par- people know that – our support has grown” “The Government should have done some- ties is going to take Kosovo back to zero, in said Termkolli. thing about all these power-cuts,” said a le ing the small parties take their time until middle-aged shop-owner. “I am going to Although achieving independence is still they build on enough capacity to rebuild give my vote to someone who off ers me a the main goal and top priority of the LDK, the institutions from scratch. Termkolli said that this year the party has solution for this problem.” “We are not sure of giving our vote to par- According to a report on Kosovo published also compiled plans for easing problems ties and people we know so well, let alone this September by the United Nations such as unemployment. to people who have just entered politics,” Development Programme, UNDP, these The fi rst thing they will do, if they win, is said Fetij e Krasniqi. disappointments are resulting in a decreas- to pass laws on property and others as to Torn between the results achieved for the ing voter turnout. create a legal base for foreign investments. last three years and the colourful promises While 79 percent of the electorate voted in “This will boost the economy and open new of political parties in 2004, Kosvans have to the fi rst election in 2000, the voter percent- jobs,” said Termkolli. put their priorities straight and decide what age has fallen continually to 64 percent in The Democratic Party of Kosovo, PDK, the diff erence they want to make on 23 Octo- 2001 and only 54 percent in the last elections second largest party in Kosovo, which has ber. in 2002. 26 seats in the parliament, admi ed that the Zana Limani and Driton Maliqi are contribu- “Voter turnout has decreased steadily from Assembly did not pass as many laws as they tors for the Institute for War & Peace Reporting the fi rst elections, in part perhaps because should have, mainly a ributing it to poor (IWPR). 3 DETAILS Elections Challenges Abound for Electorate: Provisional Institutions Take Centre Stage On 23 October, more than 1.3 million registered voters will have the right to cast their ballots and influence the make-up of Kosovo’s Provisional Institutions of Self-Government (PISG). The people of Kosovo will be able to select from 32 certified political entities—including political parties, citizens’ initiatives and independent candidates. By Bernard Vrban, OSCE The electorate is voting for the 120 seat The fi rst Assembly of Kosovo, in its fi rst In accordance with the provisions of the Assembly, the legislative body of the PISG. three years, adopted more than 90 laws Constitutional Framework and the proce- But this vote will also greatly aff ect the struc- (according to information provided by the dural regulations, the Government has the ture of the new Government, the executive Assembly), though not all have been pro- right to propose a law, as do other actors. branch of the PISG. Therefore, it is impor- mulgated by the UN Special Representative. The Assembly, along with voting on the tant to know just what these bodies do, what The fi rst law passed was the Law on the laws, provides advice to the government in their competencies are, what they have done Method for se ing the level of basic pension the la er’s preparation of draft laws (which in this fi rst mandate and what lies ahead in (Law # 2002/1). Other laws have touched on are later submi ed to the Assembly). the second term. a great diversity of fi elds, such as the laws However, this is only one of the many Informed voters know not only the election on: external trade (2002/6), roads (2003/11), competencies and responsibilities of the issues, but where to turn to ensure that their postal services (2003/18), sport (2003/24), government. As the executive branch, the electricity (2004/10) and precious metal voices are heard and where to seek answers Government is responsible for “running” the products (2004/28). to the maladies that aff ect society. As in any territory. It is the institution that is actively society, an educated voter is a good voter. Unfortunately, the Assembly has on occasion implementing laws passed by the Assembly The Constitutional Framework spells out gone beyond its competencies; during the and promulgated by the SRSG. summer of 2004, the Assembly a empted quite clearly the responsibilities of the PISG. Of course, the extent to which this govern- to make amendments to the Constitutional The PISG are responsible for ensuring that ment has been successful in meeting these Framework. Recently, a draft law on co- all legislation and practices are in keeping priorities will be best measured by the elec- operation with The Hague/International with the relevant European and interna- torate’s response on 23 October. The voting Criminal Tribunal was also determined to tional standards and norms. Naturally, there public will voice their opinions in the best are reserved powers (found in Chapter 8 of be outside of the competencies of the PISG. way possible on that day-by casting a ballot the Constitutional Framework) which are Incidents like this have drawn criticism from not within the competencies of the PISG. others in the international community, not Challenges facing the PISG just from UNMIK. The legislative role of the Assembly The PISG must still tackle socio-economic The legislative check on the executive issues and seek to improve the lives of the Chapter 9 of the Constitutional Framework residents of Kosovo. The next PISG will be regulates the role of the Assembly of Kosovo The Assembly also has the responsibility to responsible for the full implementation of approve the Government, which consists – the highest legislative body. Assembly the Standards for Kosovo. It is the incoming of the Offi ce of the Prime Minister and a members are directly responsible for pass- PISG that will either move Kosovo forward number of ministries which are directly ing laws and resolutions within the PISG’s and closer to Europe by seriously accept- responsible for their respective areas of com- areas of responsibility. The facets of life ing the job-at-hand or keep it where it is petency. which the Assembly has the power to pass by arguing with and upstaging the interna- legislation on include, but are not limited to: The priorities established for this Govern- tional community. Their success or failure labour and social welfare; health; education, ment in early 2002 were to: 1) consolidate the will greatly determine Kosovo’s place in the science and technology; agriculture, forestry democratic structures of Kosovo; 2) increase region and Europe. and rural development; and transport and the transparency and effi ciency of the In the upcoming election, the Kosovo elec- communications. administration; 3) improve educational stan- torate will decide which political entities dards; 4) improve they believe to be best able to meet these the quality of challenges and to improve the quality of health; 5) pro- life of all people. The international commu- mote economic nity may still have some reserved powers, development and which are commensurate with sovereignty, international eco- but the vast majority of powers, allowing nomic co-opera- for self-governance—which is what the UN tion; 6) increase Resolution 1244 seeks to address—is already employment; 7) in the hands of elected and appointed local establish pen- offi cials. The electorate should make their sion insurance political leadership know who they most and social assis- trust to make the necessary progress. tance for vulner- able groups; and The websites of the Assembly of Kosovo and 8) integrate all the Government of Kosovo can be found, “In the upcoming election, the Kosovo electorate will decide which political ethnic communi- respectively, at www.kuvendikosoves.org and entities they believe best able to meet these challenges and to improve the qual- ties into Kosovan www.pm-ksgov.net. Information therein was ity of life of all people.” Photo: Kotek/OSCE society. used for the compilation of this article. 4 DETAILS Electricity: But at What Cost? When someone asks the question “what is the most unbearable day-to-day problem here?” Almost immediately one hears “the power cuts!”

By Magda Hejzyk, OSCE Normal access to electricity has been a prob- lem for the entire population of Kosovo. What’s worse, while not being able to supply regular service, the two principle power plants of the Kosovo Energy Company (KEK) in Obiliq/Obilić churn out an enor- mous amount of pollution in the air, pos- esing a serious health threat to Kosovans. However, aft er years of neglecting the problem, it seems the issue of the plants has fi nally come to light, both in the local press, and from those inhabitants directly aff ected by the nuisance. It seems also that authorities are taking their fi rst steps towards resolving the problem of the power plants. KEK, in spite of its sporadic service, is still the main supplier of energy to the Kosovo market. Its two power plants, Kosovo A and B, situated close to Prishtinë/Priština in the nearby village of Obliq/Obilić, do not easily escape one’s notice. The plants are huge, grey, concrete structures with 70- meter chimneys emi ing tons of ash which “People from surrounding villages claim that ash has killed their once fertile soil” Photo: Sopa/OSCE quickly ends up covering neighboring areas in a blanket of fi lth. lages in the immediate vicinity report the a report entitled The Strategy on Environment Kosovo B, which consists of two units, highest incidence of lung diseases, upper and Sustainable Development. At the time this is newer and has fi lters that work with a and lower respiratory tract infections, acute article was prepared, the draft law was going removal capacity of 98 percent. Kosovo A, diarrhea, intestinal parasitic and scabies. through parliamentary proceedings. comprised of fi ve units, operates with a Blown by the wind, ashes cake ones’ lungs According to the document, MESP’s priori- removal rate between 50 to 80 percent. One and never retreat. However, and to be fair, ties concerning Obiliq/Obilić among others of its 200MW blocks emits about 25 tons of the health situation is not caused by the are: “the replacement of old equipment in the dust and ash per hour, 74 times the Euro- power plants alone, but also by the drink- energy sector, the removal and appropriate dis- pean standard for dust pollution. The lack ing water, a lack of sanitation and the poor posal of existing ash landfi lls from power plants, of proper maintenance of the two plants is personal hygiene of many. Regardless, most and the rehabilitation as well as re-cultivation of a major concern. Damaged or idle fi lters of it can be traced back to the plants. craters created during the time when the exploi- – very oft en turned off by workers in order People from surrounding villages claim tation of lignite was done via open-pit mines.” to increase capacity – cause even more pol- lution and health risks. Thus, while plumes that the ash has killed their once fertile soil. The list of MESP’s priorities is much longer. of smoke mean electricity in the homes of Many inhabitants of Krushec/Kruševac, However, the question lingers: Will they be most, they’re synonymous to poison for a village placed between the plant and able to achieve all their goals? Formulating those living in the surrounding area. mounds of stored ashes, suff er from respi- an appropriate legal framework is a step ratory-tract diseases and even cancer. Those in the right direction. But then, other, more The energy sector, especially in the wider ashes, which make life very diffi cult in the result-driven measures need to be taken region of Prishtinë/Priština, is the main pol- Obiliq/Obilić area, also reach other nearby soon, and not only by government authori- luter in Kosovo, and about 97 percent of towns. For example, a stronger-than-normal all energy produced in Kosovo is provided ties, but by citizens as well. wind can carry particles up to 10 kilometers through the burning of coal in power plants. First, a good start would be enforcement of – as far as Prishtinë/Priština. The coal-burning electro-power plants the existing law. At present, in the area of of KEK emit sulfur, nitrogen and carbon Responding to the issue of pollution, Mr. industrial pollution, it is inadequate. Second, oxides, as well as dust in an environment Zeqir Veselaj, an advisor to the Ministry of if new fi lters for the plant are to be installed, already highly polluted by automobile and Environment and Spatial Planning (MESP), and used appropriately, fi nancing of such a generator emissions, the la er being an stated that at the moment the only way the purchase should be linked to a new a itude alternative source of energy during power government can infl uence KEK’s activi- among Kosovans, one by which citizens pay cuts and a main emi er of “noise pollu- ties is to generate laws which in the future their electrical bills. tion.” Moreover, besides tainting the natural will force the company to reduce pollution. Given its fi nancial limitations, the state water supply, the plants create hills built of Unfortunately, according to him, enforce- cannot provide citizens with cleaner and more than 40 million tons of ash, comprising ment of such laws will take years. Mr. Veselaj healthier energy delivery without an appro- approximately 150 hectares of agricultural stressed that the Ministry, established only priate source of income directly linked to land in the process. in June 2002, can only recognize the urgent the usage of that energy. The path to regular The cocktail of polluted air, soil and water in priority of establishing a strong legal frame- and clean energy is, like many other issues, the Obiliq/Obilić area, results in enormous work for environmental management. To a two-way street. health problems among the population. Vil- achieve this, the MESP recently completed 5 DETAILS Elections

Understanding the electoral system

Quick Facts

The electoral system which is set down in the Constitutional Framework is very straightforward.

It is proportional representation.

This means that the seats in the Assembly are allocated in proportion to the number of votes each political entity receives.

There are 120 seats in the Assembly.

All political parties, citizens’ initiatives, coalitions and independent candidates that are running in the election are competing for 100 of those seats.

And because the electoral system being used is proportional representation it means that if one entity wins for example 60 percent of the votes that entity will get approximately 60 seats in the Assembly.

The other 20 seats in the Assembly are known as set aside seats.

That’s because they are set aside for the smaller communities, to guarantee they can have a voice in the Assembly.

Those seats will be allocated in proportion to the votes the political entities from smaller communities receive in the election.

“One Kosovo” How do you know who you’re voting for? In the election for the Assembly, Kosovo is treated as one electoral People will be voting for the entity of their choice. district. There are about 1,300 candidates for all the entities competing This is a straightforward appro-ach. in this year’s election.

It means that wherever a person is So the political entities have drawn up lists of their candidates, voting, that vote counts for the entity and the order in which they‘ll be elected. For instance one party the person is voting for. may put 110 candidates forward but win only 40 seats. That means the first 40 names on the party’s list will get seats in the It gives all entities, including smaller Assembly. ones, a better opportunity of winning seats as they don’t have to rely on You will know who those candidates are. There is information out support from one particular area of before election day with the entities’ lists of candidates, as well Kosovo. as at the polling stations.

6 DETAILS Elections

1 seat for the Gorani Community. 2 seats for Turkish Community. WHAT DOES PROPORTIONAL 3 seats for Bosniak Community. REPRESENTATION MEAN? 4 seats for Roma, Ashkali and Egyptian Community.

10 Community Seats 20 seats Reserved for Kosovo's smaller communities

10 seats reserved for Kosovo Serb Candidates

The Assembly This translates to the following number of seats:

Party E Party B Party H 6 seats 12 seats 8 seats

Party G Party F 17 seats 4 seats

PROPORTIONAL Party D REPRESENTATION 3 seats 120 seats Party C The people of Kosovo will elect 8 seats the assembly members on Party I October 23, 2004 9 seats

Party A 33 seats

Explanation: If party or candidate A receives 33% of the total number of votes cast, then they will receive approximately 33% of the 100 seats, therefore, they will win 33 seats in the Assembly. 100 seats All parties from every community If party or candidate D receives 3% of the total number of may contest these seats and will votes cast, then they will receive approximately3% of the be represented according to the proportion of votes received. 100 seats, therefore, they will win 3 seats in the Assembly.

7 DETAILS The Peoples’ Message to Kosovo’s Leaders

The campaign period is already underway, but what are the main concerns of the voters and what sort of choices are they likely to have this time around? By Hasan Sopa, OSCE Each time a new election approaches, Koso- vo’s voters face a number of dilemmas. It’s the time when political parties start making promises, which they themselves fi nd dif- fi cult to deliver upon. Some know there are no conditions in which to achieve them in light of the current ba ered economic state, whereas the voter has li le choice but to ‘believe’ them simply because they will have to cast their vote. With the election just weeks away, ‘Details’ talked to a number a people in the street about the issues important to them. It is essential for all the people of Kosovo that this coming election is organised and held in the best possible manner as this is the next step on which Kosovo will build its democracy. Voters vs. politicians An opinion expressed by many was that No shortage of political ads on a Prishtinë/Priština street on the eve of Elections. Photo: Sopa/OSCE Kosovo’s political parties and politicians still lacked the required experience in exercising She notes that the new Assembly should not Gëzim Krasniqi, from the student’s initia- power. And this despite the last few years continually waste time bringing up Kosovo’s tive ‘Tjetërqysh’ (In another way), has more experience, including the capacity build- fi nal status, because this is currently not up or less the same opinion. He says that nepo- ing assistance provided by the international for discussion. “It’s important to have clear tism is a concern in every department of the community. ideas on the issue, but it is more critical to university and politics are oft en too much deal with concrete problems, such as draft - According to Miradij e Asllanaj, a govern- involved. ing economic policies and creating jobs.” ment employee, political party platforms However, she continued that the govern- “I had the chance to read some of the politi- need to be comprised of more than empty ment itself admi ed a lack of ideas in draft - cal parties statutes where they speak about simple statements such as ‘this is what we ing such policies, thus, expending valuable the benefi ts students will get if they gain would like to…’ Rather, “they need to clearly time. power. They promise to improve students’ spell out how they plan to implement their conditions, allocate scholarships and so on,” ideas on environmental issues, on health Corruption in institutions According to Krasniqi this is not the case: care, education system and so on.” And they “If a student wants to get a scholarship then need to work on, what she calls, the ‘account- Another concern, according to Lama is cor- ruption. “Let’s take for example the health he or she has to affi liate themselves with a ability connection’ between them and the certain political party or else they have no voters. institutions; the services are very bad and corruption fl ourishes every day.” chance.” Every day problems “Health care in Kosovo is deplorable,” says Defi ning responsibilities There is no doubt that voters have the great- Destan Berisha who sits at an internet café. est voice in changing the current political “In western countries once the patient is The handing over of responsibilities was scene. But, are voters aware that they really hospitalized, the family members feel they another topic oft en raised. “There needs to can make a diff erence? are in capable hands. Here it’s the other be a clear defi nition of responsibilities,” says way around. It’s the time when the suff er- Berisha “so that we know who is in charge “Democracy begins at the grassroots level ing begins as the patient’s family and friends of what. People do not feel any great sense and voters have to learn to demand more beg the doctors and nurses to look aft er their of ‘ownership’ of the self government insti- of their politicians and make them account- loved one, running for the medicines and tutions. Rather, there is a perception, both able,” says Asllanaj. “They need to realise everything else.” that the parties represent and serve them and amongst politicians and voters, that the not the other way around. On the other hand, international community still controls most political parties need to know that they have Nepotism and politics in the aspects of the interim administration.” to work hard on their election year promises school system Berisha stressed that defi ning responsibilities or else next time they risk losing votes.” The state of the education system oft en is a crucial part of the process. Kosovo needs Alma Lama an RTK journalist thinks that came up in our interviews as a major con- responsible government offi cials more than the future Assembly should be more effi - cern. These problems at the university level anything else. And, to make this happen, cient with their time, even in the sense of the – where there seems to be a lack of profes- accountability mechanisms are required. intensity of their work. “There is no doubt sional staff , nepotism and no reforms – is how “This is what the people of Kosovo want that passing laws is important,” she says, people see the system. What this equates to and this is what those involved in building “but also dealing with every day problems is a lack of investment in the future develop- a responsible society want, including the our society faces are crucial.” ment of society. voters,” concluded Berisha. 8 DETAILS Reconstruction Programme Enters Final Stage

By Vasilija Stanić, OSCE If the number of destroyed buildings is taken Priština and Fushë Kosovë/Kosovo Polje. “I had a house in Fushë Kosovë/Kosovo into consideration, then Fushë Kosovë/ This included children primarily from the Polje, and both my children used to go to St. Kosovo Polje would certainly be among Kosovo Serb and Roma communities who Sava School” says Jovica Rajković. “Aft er 17 those municipalities most aff ected by the a ended classes in the Serbian language. March my family and I were se led in con- riots which rocked Kosovo in mid-March of tainers. But, when the school year opened Approximately 300 of these pupils had to this year. I decided to bring my family to the nearby fi nish the last school year in the nearby vil- village of Skulanovo so they could a end Two buildings most critical to the commu- lage of Ugljare, where classes were orga- classes. The main reason is that my house nity, St. Sava School and the Medical Clinic nized in four shift s due to a lack of space. is not reconstructed, and it’s very hard for in Bresje, were among the 139 damaged pri- Now, back at St. Sava, both students and a whole family to live in a small container, vate and public structures. Now, six months teachers are pleased with the conditions in especially if you keep in mind that there later, a newly rebuilt St. Sava School has re- their reconstructed school. are oft en electricity cuts, no water and opened. Work on the Bresje Clinic will soon poor hygiene conditions…If the situation follow. However, school directors emphasized that the refurbishment should not end as improves and conditions are created for our “I am pleasantly surprised with the short there remains much more to complete. This return, the most important being security, amount of time it took to bring the school includes re-equipping cabinets for chemis- we would like to go back to our house so that back to life; promises were kept,” said the try, physics and biology, as well as replacing our children can return to their school.” director of one of the primary schools, many of the 7,500 important books which In Fushë Kosovë/Kosovo Polje, out of 139 Radoslav Marović. were lost. Even the gymnasium, though structures on the list for reconstruction, 34 When EU High Representative Javier Solana renovated, is no longer equipped as it use houses and the St. Sava School are fi nished, visited the school shortly aft er the riots, to be. while work continues on 95 more houses as well as on the Clinic. Marović asked “what should I tell my teach- It is also important not to look at the recon- ers and pupils?” The school director con- struction of the school separately from the Bexhxet Brajshori, the president of the tinues: “Solana answered ‘the school will reconstruction of other nearby buildings Central Inter Ministerial Commission for be ready in September, in time for the new destroyed in March. Reconstruction of Reconstruction of the Buildings Destroyed school year.’ This happened and I’m very houses and creating conditions for return of in March, told Details that the programme is pleased.” displaced people that are now mostly se led entering its fi nal stage. Following the 1999 confl ict, St. Sava School in containers in Ugljare, would also enable “For St. Sava School, the Kosovo Govern- took in many students who were displaced children who are now a ending the school ment allocated €460,000. However, the fi rst from their original schools in Prishtinë/ elsewhere, to return to St. Sava School. priority is the reconstruction of residences,” said Brajoshri. He added that several NGOs were asked to assist with the technical preparations such as the organizing of tenders, monitoring the progress and reporting to the Commission. “So far the work is going as planned and it is expected that all damaged houses in Fushë Kosovë/ Kosovo Polje will be fi n- ished by the end of Octo- ber,” added Brajshori. “As for the Clinic, it’s possible that its completion will be a bit late, but I believe it too will be fi nished in October.” Pupils of the Secondary Medical School are hoping that, when the Bresje Medical Clinic is fi nished, they will be able to a end classes of practical teach- ing in this institution, as School children at the newly renovated St. Sava school in Fushë Kosovë/Kosovo Polje. Photo: Sopa/OSCE they did before. 9 DETAILS Students Look for a New Set of Reforms

By Rexhep Krasniqi & Halide Sadiku, OSCE The corridors of the University of Pristina overfl ow with students. The youngsters are full of life, joy, laughter, enthusiasm, energy and a longing for a brighter future. Some look concerned as they apply for courses at the University. When one asks how they feel, the answer is they’ll be elated if they just manage to enroll. However, when asked about their prospects aft er earning a degree and studying conditions, the mood shift s as if lightening struck them. Fatmir, 24, a student in the Engineering sec- tion noted, “I cannot describe how happy I was when I was accepted at the University, because this was to open the path to a be er future. But these hopes were quickly dashed “Reforms have been applied, but only superficially It also depends on the age of professors – some when I came into all the roadblocks—inad- accept them more easily, some not.” Photo: Sopa/OSCE equate textbooks, poor lectures and li le stimulation.” education oft en takes four to six years. For this situation, he also blames the inter- national community, noting that there is Shkumbin, 21, a student studying Agricul- According to Krasniqi, radical changes must nothing in the list of ‘standards’ regarding ture said his primary grievance was the lack be made if reforms are to be carried out the education system. of lab materials for completing research proj- adequately. Chief among them are reducing As the elections approach, Fatmir does not ects. The young man sees li le future in his class sizes, providing more studying space, expect much to change. “I think standards chosen profession stating “with no develop- replacing teaching staff , updating textbooks will be fulfi lled aft er the election, then the ment (of agriculture in Kosovo), I have no and improving the quality of lectures. From status will be solved, investments will start prospects here.” his point of view, the current reforms should to come in and prospects in Kosovo should Gezim Krasniqi, a member of the Students’ have never been allowed to go forth. improve.” Initiative “Tjetërqysh” (In another way), reached the same conclusion as Fatmir. He added that due to shortcomings, the Univer- sity of Pristina has become a factory produc- ing jobless graduates. He goes on to question A Lost Generation of Pensioners whether it’s even worth it to study. By Mevlyde Salihu, OSCE As if there weren’t already enough concerns, A large dim space fi lled with smoke. Seniors According to Domi, only 30 percent of pen- students complain that they have yet to see playing chess at tables covered with stained sioners have somebody to look aft er them, any of the so-called reforms at the University. tablecloths. Those not playing, pass their the rest have to live with their paltry pen- sion. “It is a miracle how they manage,” On this issue, Fatmir sees li le application time whispering to each other about how he said, adding “we have information that as the academic personnel remain quite old they spend their days. Others sit outside and hope for be er days. people go out at night and search for bread and cannot adapt to changes. Shkumbin in the garbage. They’re old and the vast are This is the outlook of the pensioners’ asso- says that the reforms are applied only partly, majority sick.” going on to mention a three-year-long study ciation, where the old get together. into reforms. Their wrinkled faces tell you hundreds of Xhavit Rexhaj, a senior offi cial in the Min- more sad than happy stories that made their istry of Education, Science, and Technology lives diffi cult and interesting at that same has the same feeling about the implemen- time. tation of the reforms. According to him, The clean, well-lit stairs leading up to the “reforms have been applied, but only super- president of the associations’ offi ce gives fi cially. There was a will and readiness of the illusory impression that things will look the University leadership for them, but the be er just one fl oor up, but leaking pipes planning, participation and implementation just in front of the offi ce sends one back to has been carried out from top to bo om, reality. without any real engagement by the teach- “Our situation is very diffi cult,” says Rasim ers. It also depends on the age of professors Domi, the head of the association. “Aft er the – some accept them more easily, some not.” war (in 1999), pensioners have been deprived Krasniqi says that the new mesures are an of their status. Those above 65 years of age eff ort for experimenting with something remain equal, regardless if they worked or which was not well planned. One of the not, receiving a paltry €40 per month. How- shortcomings of the new system is that it ever, there remain a large number of those actually cuts degree programmes from four under 65 who are entitled to a pension, but Rasim Domi, head of the Pensioners Association receive nothing. They wait,” he added. to three years. In most cases, a university Photo: Sopa/OSCE 10 DETAILS Idriz Lepaja, who is 77, is one of the lucky ones. He met the criteria to be in the new pension scheme, proving he is an inhabitant Media Gets Its Fourth Test of Kosovo and older than 65. More impor- tantly, he has children who support him. By Arben Hajredinaj, OSCE “This is not a pension, it’s social aid. I cannot Never before have Kosovo institutions had mative to its readers and constantly alert in buy the medicine I need with €40. Aft er a more important role in the organizing of evaluating the performance of any election working 41 years in the Municipal Court free and fair elections. Among the most cru- campaign. in Podujevo, I feel hurt and disappointed cial measures of their success will be how Bajrami stresses the importance of voter edu- knowing I cannot support myself and having the media chooses to report the performance cation. He says that voters should be fully to depend on my children,” he said. of all parties involved. And, in turn, the local informed before making a decision. “The With so many problems aft er its establish- media will also be under the microscope. nature of print media allows us to delve ment in Kosovo in 1999, the international deeper into an analysis of any statement,” community and the newly-created institu- Rules and Regulations adding “we cannot allow the voters to elect tions in Kosovo, seemed to have forgo en The guidelines for the media, established by only by the electoral speeches of party rep- about the problem. the Temporary Media Commissioner (TMC) resentatives, since we are accountable to be It was only in July 2002 that the Assembly of under UNMIK draft ed regulations, became fair to the citizens.” Kosovo, one year aft er its creation, adopted the subject of debate during meetings held the Law on the Method for se ing the level in September 2004 between the media and Media Coverage of basic pension. This meant that people TMC. While the media accepted the regula- While most of the media will dedicate a older than 65 would receive €28 per month, tions, reservations on its full implementa- signifi cant portion of their time to the elec- with an annual increase, depending on the tion did remain. tion, there will be others which do not for a budget. Two years later the amount has “The election period is always sensitive variety of factors; among these this includes only reached €40. and there should be set rules for the cover- the high associated costs, a lack of personnel However, the new scheme left people who age of the campaign,” says Agron Bajrami, resources and even disinterest. are now retired and under 65 with nothing, editor-in-chief of the daily Koha Ditore. He Valentina Čukić of Radio Contact Plus, even if they had been worked most of their expressed doubt saying that the draft ing and which broadcasts in the Serbian and Roma lives. The old system guaranteed pensions adopting of rules is one thing, but its ade- languages, says that they will cover the gen- by having the working generation contrib- quate implementation is another. Bajrami eral election actively only if the Serb and ute to the pension fund. On the other hand, went on to note that only some of the media Roma population participate, otherwise the new system, set up aft er the confl ict, would cover the election campaign in a pro- they will only passively report on the topic. requires that employees pay their own con- fessional manner. Čukić also brings up the issue of security, tributions. Current pensioners who are pen- Zij adin Gashi, a journalist with the daily stressing that minorities must fi rst have niless seem to be stuck in between. Zëri, said that despite rules requiring the freedom of movement if they are to report “We are aware this is not the best solution,” media provide fair and equal representation throughout Kosovo. said Nuhi Ismajli, advisor to the Minister of in informative programmes of all certifi ed The Albanian language print media in the Labour and Social Welfare. “We have not entities this “is more ‘desire,’ than reality.” region vows to report in a balanced way come up with a solution for current pen- To make the point, he underlined the diffi - from the party campaigns and to analyse sioners. The scheme and laws of the past are culty in providing equal representation by promises and programmes of the entities. no longer applicable. But I’m sure the new the broadcast media since the entities vary “Our editorial policy is clear: correct, objec- scheme, the one of a basic pension and a due to their size, activities or their organiza- tive and unbiased reporting from our jour- trust, will work in the long run.” tional structure in the region. nalists,” says Gashi. The countless number “The solution would be with a new strong, of election activities, namely rallies, make complete government with competencies, Professionalism it nearly impossible for the media to cover which cannot justify itself by saying it has There is no doubt that the media plays a them all, explains Bajrami. limited competencies, and a real opposi- crucial role in shaping voters’ opinion. In The media will undoubtedly face many tion,” concluded Ismajli. covering an election it is vital that they have challenges in covering the upcoming elec- The head of the pensioners’ association also adequate information and a great deal of tion, but in its fourth test in last fi ve years of hopes that things will turnaround once the this depends on access to important events. covering an election, the process may seem new government is in place. “Things can’t It is up to the media to be professional, infor- routine. get any worse,” he said, adding “the fi rst government did what it could, but it is a ‘young’ government. The upcoming govern- ment we elect will be able to look back and draw on the work of the previous one, do things the fi rst one didn’t do, and do them be er.” But with the current economic situation in Kosovo, unemployment and a new pension system, and without a solution in sight, the situation of current pensioners will most likely further deteriorate. Despite the declarative support by Kosovo’s institutions, a lot remains to be done, and it has to be done quickly for this lost genera- tion of workers, who have carried the heavi- est of burdens. 11 DETAILS Commonly Asked Questions on Voting

When will the elections be held? What do I need to bring with me to vote? The election for the Assembly of Kosovo will take place on 23 October, You will need to take at least one the following forms of identifi cation: 2004. All polling stations will be open from 7:00 to 19:00. Any voter in - a valid UNMiK identifi cation card; line at 19:00 will be allowed to exercise his/her right to vote. - a valid UNMiK Travel Document; - a valid UNMIK Driving License; Am I eligible to vote? - a valid IDP (PZHBV) card; or, You are eligible to vote if your birthday is before 23 October, 1986 AND - a valid refugee card. you registered with the Municipal Civil Registry Centre in your munic- ipality of residence prior to 6 August, 2004 to ensure inclusion on the I have not found the answer to my question(s), where can I get further information? 2004 voter list. Please visit the Municipal Election Offi ce in your area to address any Where do I vote on Election Day? other election related queries you may have. Municipal Election Com- Voters are assigned to a polling centre location based on the their mission (MEC) offi cials are available to answer voting questions up address of residence as recorded in the civil registry. This location is until one day prior to the election. On E-day there will a voter help desk where you will appear on the voter list on Election Day. set up at each polling centre. MEC contact information appears below.

Central Election Commission Komisioni Qendror i zgjedhjeve SECRETARIAT Centralna Izborna Komisija Prishtinë/Priština, Arbëri/Dragodan, Tel: +381 38 240 722 , Fax: +381 38 240 719

Code Muncipality Name Phone Postal Address

1 Deçan/Dečani Xhavit Rexhahmetaj 044 / 393 – 722 Cultural Centre 2 Gjakovë/Ðakovica Xhevdet Bytyqi 044 / 393 – 727 Cultural Centre 3 Gllogovc/Glogovac Bilall Shehu 044 / 393 – 712 Building Fabrication near Assembly 4 Gjilan/Gnjilane Ferid Shabani 044 / 393 – 715 Local Assembly 5 Dragash/Dragaš Sehadin Misini 044 / 393 – 726 Former Assembly Building 6 Istog/Istok Bashkim Ademaj 044 / 393 – 723 Cultural Centre 7 Kaçanik/Kačanik Qemajl Hamdiu 044 / 393 – 719 Local KPS Building 8 Klinë/Klina Idriz Dushi 044 / 393 – 724 Local Assembly 9 Fushë Kosovë/Kosovo Polje Skender Dumani 044 / 393 – 709 Local Assembly 10 Kamenicë/Kamenica Agim Kastrati 044 / 393 – 722 Cultural Centre 11 Mitrovicë/Mitrovica Gani Mikullovci 044 / 393 – 730 Local Assembly 12 Leposavić/Leposaviq Milosav Markovic 063 / 857 – 6839 Cultural Centre 13 Lipjan/Lipljan Hamza Kadriu 044 / 393 – 724 Local Assembly 14 Novobërdë/Novo Brdo Selim Mehmeti 044 / 393 – 716 Local Assembly 15 Obiliq/Obilić Haki Krasniqi 044 / 393 – 710 Local Assembly 16 Rahovec/Orahovac Ilir Popaj 044 / 393 - 728 Fire Station 17 Pejë/Peć Mehrij e Hoti 044 / 393 – 721 Assembly Building by Cultural Centre 18 Podujevë/Podujevo Islam Demolli 044 / 393 – 711 Local Assembly 19 Prishtinë/Priština Fatmire Bajrami 044 / 393 – 708 Local Assembly 20 Prizren/Prizren Nysret Bytyqi 044 / 393 – 735 Public Utilities Building 21 Skenderaj/Srbica Imer Ahmetaj 044 / 393 – 732 Cultural Centre 22 Shtime/Štimlje Florij e Mulaj 044 / 393 – 714 Former Shopping Centre 23 Štrpce/Shtërpcë Milan Janićij ević 063 / 844 – 9943 Private House beside Assembly 24 Suharekë/Suva Reka Re i Gega 044 / 393 – 725 Local Assembly 25 Ferizaj/Uroševac Idriz Hetemi 044 / 393 – 718 Local Assembly 26 Viti/Vitina Skender Hoda 044 / 393 – 717 Local Assembly 27 Vushtrri/Vučitrn Elez Krasniqi 044 / 393 – 731 Local Assembly 28 Zubin Potok/Zubin Potok Goran Bacvarović 063 / 855 – 0981 NGO “CCD” beside Primary School 29 Zvečan/Zveçan Viktorij a Milisavljević 063 / 895 – 0673 Private House beside Assembly 30 Malishevë/Mališevo Rexhep Zogaj 044 / 393 – 729 Local Assembly

For further general information please refer to: www.cec-ko.org • www.kosovoelections.org www.zgjedhjetekosoves.org • www.kosovskiizbori.org • www.osce.org/kosovo 12