OSCE on the demolition of vacation cottages at Gazivode: Selective or uneven application of the law can undermine public confidence

In response to Kosovo Online, the OSCE Mission in Kosovo stated that it is closely monitoring the situation regarding the demolitions near Lake Gazivode and that it continues to follow developments closely with international partners.

In its written response to Kosovo Online, the OSCE Mission emphasized that any action affecting property rights, including the demolition of illegally constructed buildings, must be carried out strictly within the applicable legal framework, with full respect for due process.

"It remains important that individuals affected are adequately and promptly informed of the legal basis for any action taken against their property. Access to effective legal remedies must be made known to challenge such decisions through the appropriate administrative and judicial mechanisms. The rule of law, transparency, and due process must be applied consistently and without distinction to all illegally constructed buildings across Kosovo. Enforcement action against unauthorized construction should follow the same legal standards and procedural safeguards for all communities. Selective or uneven application of the law, whether real or perceived, risks undermining public confidence and negatively affect inter-community relations and trust," the OSCE's response states.

It concludes by stressing that the equal and impartial enforcement of the law is fundamental to building public trust, protecting the rights of every individual, and preserving stability and  inter-community confidence throughout Kosovo.

"The OSCE Mission in Kosovo remains ready to support the relevant institutions and partners to ensure these standards are upheld," the Mission told our portal.

The demolition of vacation homes and houses at Lake Gazivode began yesterday morning and, according to Zubin Potok Mayor Milos Perovic, the Municipality of Zubin Potok did not issue a permit for the operation, which was carried out without a court decision.

Serb List Presidency member Igor Simic stated that yesterday's illegal demolition of Serbian-owned buildings at Gazivode shows that Albin Kurti is continuing the expulsion of Serbs from Kosovo by using a well-established pattern in which Serbian houses and homes, built through years of hard work, are demolished without a court decision and without approval from the municipality.

Regarding the case, UNMIK told Kosovo Online that it is closely monitoring developments related to the demolition of buildings at Lake Gazivode 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.