OSCE: It is of crucial importance that the rights of Kosovo Serbs are fully respected

The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) stated that it was closely monitoring the decisions and actions of Kosovo institutions, including the introduction of a new regulation on currency transactions, and that it was crucial for the rights of Kosovo Serbs to be fully respected.

According to OSCE, Kosovo institutions are aware that this will have consequences for the population and have expressed readiness to provide a transitional period to avoid difficulties for citizens impacted by this decision, with better communication.

"It is crucial that the rights of non-majority communities, including the Kosovo Serb community, are fully respected, and time should be allowed for necessary consultations with those impacted. It is also important that all relevant public communication be in both official languages," the OSCE statement said.

As stated by the OSCE Mission, they are monitoring actions undertaken by the Kosovo Police, including operations directed towards Serbian institutions in the municipalities of Dragas, Pec, Istok, and Klina, as well as the NGO Center for Peace and Tolerance in Pristina.

"The sudden closure of institutions offering social or health services to members of non-majority communities risks having a negative impact on individuals and families by limiting their access to some basic services. Protecting the well-being of affected communities, including especially vulnerable groups, should be a priority before implementing such policies or decisions," the OSCE Mission stated.