Oct 29, 2024 – The Serbian Government has taken a significant step by approving a draft law that aims to enhance its judicial powers regarding criminal offenses in Kosovo. Announced by President Aleksandar Vu?i? in early September, this legislation will establish a special prosecutor’s office to address the persecution of the Serbian population in the region.
Under the proposed law, initial criminal cases will be managed by the High Public Prosecutor’s Office and the Supreme Court in Belgrade. Appeals will be handled by the Public Prosecutor’s Office and the Court of Appeals. The plan includes creating a special department within the High Public Prosecutor’s Office focused on crimes committed in “Kosovo and Metohija.”
Vu?i? stated that the Serbian Assembly is expected to approve the law within 45 days, underscoring the prosecutor’s office’s role in investigating alleged crimes by officials in Pristina.
Serbia does not recognize Kosovo’s independence, declared in 2008, and many Kosovo Serbs, particularly in the north, have long relied on parallel Serbian institutions for governance. This year, the Kosovo government, led by Prime Minister Albin Kurti, has sought to dismantle these parallel structures to extend its authority, drawing criticism from Western governments for its uncoordinated approach amid ongoing tensions.
In a related move, the Serbian Government also approved a draft law designating Kosovo as a “special social protection area.” This legislation aims to provide financial support to unemployed individuals over 65 who lack pension benefits, promoting cultural heritage preservation and fostering demographic development in the region.
