OSCE: Concern over unauthorized entry by Xhufka into Serbian Orthodox Church – Authorities must act

The OSCE Mission in Kosovo has expressed concern regarding the unauthorized entry of Nikola Xhufka into the Serbian Orthodox Church of Saint Archangel Michael near Podujevo, marking the third such incident. The Mission emphasized that respect for religious rights and the rule of law is essential to preserving Kosovo’s cultural and religious heritage.

In a post on social media platform X, the OSCE Mission in Kosovo called on the competent authorities to respond urgently, thoroughly investigate the case, and prevent further intrusions.

“The OSCE Mission in Kosovo is concerned about another unauthorized entry by Nikola Xhufka into the Serbian Orthodox Church of Saint Archangel Michael near Podujevo—his third such incident. Recognized religious communities must be able to freely exercise their rights. We urge law enforcement and judicial authorities to respond promptly, conduct a thorough investigation, and prevent further incidents. Respect for religious rights and the rule of law is essential to the preservation of cultural and religious heritage in Kosovo,” the statement read.

The OSCE’s reaction follows a statement from the Raska-Prizren Diocese, which confirmed that it has filed a third complaint against Nikola Xhufka, an Albanian national who has falsely presented himself as an Orthodox bishop and who once again broke the lock on the 14th-century Church of Saint Archangel Michael.

The Diocese has appealed for the legal status of the Serbian Orthodox Church in Kosovo to be urgently addressed.