EU Office in Kosovo: Further demolitions of houses at Gazivode and forced evictions must be halted immediately

The European Union Office in Kosovo has expressed regret over yesterday's demolition of houses in the Gazivode Lake area, which was carried out while the affected residents had already initiated court proceedings within the 15-day period stipulated in the notices issued by the public utility company Ibar-Lepenac ordering them to vacate and clear the land, the institution announced.

In a statement published on Facebook, the EU expressed concern over the failure to observe legally prescribed procedures in this case, as well as in several other recent cases in northern Kosovo since February of this year.

The statement calls for the immediate suspension of all further demolitions, forced evictions, or property seizures until concerns relating to due process, proportionality, property rights, human rights, and the availability of effective legal remedies have been properly addressed.

"The authorities should, without delay, engage with the affected residents and municipalities and consider lawful solutions. The role of the Kosovo Police in such operations must remain strictly within its legal mandate, be based on clear requests or decisions by the competent authorities, and be properly documented," the statement reads.

It further notes that irreversible enforcement measures undertaken while legal proceedings are ongoing and property claims remain disputed raise serious concerns regarding the rule of law.

"In line with Kosovo's European path, the EU expects the authorities to address these concerns urgently and transparently and to ensure that similar actions are not repeated," the statement says.

The demolition of holiday cottages and residential houses at Gazivode Lake began yesterday morning. According to the Mayor of Zubin Potok, Miloš Perović, the Municipality of Zubin Potok had not issued any permit for the demolitions, which were carried out without a court order.

Commenting on the case, the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) told Kosovo Online that it is closely monitoring developments related to the demolition of structures at Gazivode Lake and is in contact with all relevant parties, including the affected individuals, in order to gain a better understanding of the situation.

UNMIK also stated that it encourages all relevant parties to engage constructively, in accordance with the principles of proportionality and non-discrimination, while ensuring full respect for and consistent implementation of the applicable legal framework.