Kosovo is marking the 18th anniversary of the adoption of its Constitution, a foundational legal document that defines the country’s governance and guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms.
April 9 is officially recognized as a state holiday under the Law on Official Holidays in Kosovo. The Constitution was signed on April 7, 2008, ratified on April 9, and entered into force on June 15, 2008.
As the highest legal act in the country, the Constitution establishes the framework for democratic governance and ensures the protection of civil liberties for all citizens. A significant portion of the document is based on the proposal of former Finnish President Martti Ahtisaari, which provided enhanced rights for minority communities and aimed to create a stable and inclusive society.
The Constitution defines Kosovo as a secular state, maintaining neutrality in matters of religion, as outlined in Article 8. It consists of 14 chapters and 162 articles.
Amendments to the Constitution require a double majority: approval by two-thirds of all members of the Assembly, as well as two-thirds of representatives from minority communities.
