Kosovo eyes European Council seat

President Vjosa Osmani met with a delegation from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), emphasizing that Kosovo remains committed to joining the Council of Europe. She stated that Kosovo will continue to strengthen the protection of human rights and the rule of law, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

Osmani expressed gratitude for PACE's support for Kosovo's institutions and welcomed the mission's engagement, as it will monitor elections in Kosovo for the first time.

During the meeting, it was highlighted that the February 9 elections are the first regular elections held under the new General Elections Law. The president described this as a significant step in improving democratic processes in the country.

Osmani stressed the need to focus on women's representation at all stages of the electoral process, as well as respecting the rights of persons with disabilities by ensuring full and equal access to polling stations.

Kosovo applied for Council of Europe membership in 2022. Although it was expected to be included in the Council of Ministers' accession agenda on May 16, 2024, this did not happen. Following the approval of the recommendation for Kosovo's membership in PACE, some states imposed a condition that Kosovo establish the Association of Serb Municipalities if it wants to join the organization headquartered in Strasbourg.