“Freedom Has a Name” Appeals to European Parliament, Calls for Independent Investigation into Kosovo Specialist Chambers

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The civic platform “Freedom Has a Name” has formally addressed the European Parliament, calling for urgent institutional action over what it describes as procedural irregularities and human rights concerns within the Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague.

In a request dated November 5, 2026, and signed by its authorised representative, Ismail Tasholli, the platform urged European institutions to examine several issues concerning the functioning of the Specialist Chambers.

Among the main concerns raised are prolonged pre-trial detention, equality of arms between the Prosecution and Defence, the credibility and handling of evidence, judicial independence and impartiality, as well as institutional transparency and accountability.

The platform also raised concerns about a potential conflict of interest within the Specialist Prosecutor’s Office, specifically referring to the case of John Devaney.

In its letter to Members of the European Parliament, “Freedom Has a Name” called for a dedicated parliamentary hearing to discuss concerns identified in a preliminary report prepared by the Bar Human Rights Committee of England and Wales (BHRC) in April 2026.

It also requested an independent international assessment of institutional practices and compliance with human rights standards at the Kosovo Specialist Chambers.

Another key demand is for the European Commission and the European External Action Service (EEAS) to prepare a special report examining transparency, institutional accountability and respect for human rights within the court.

The platform further called for a review of international funding and oversight mechanisms, as well as consideration of a parliamentary initiative to strengthen independent monitoring mechanisms.

At the conclusion of its letter, “Freedom Has a Name” requested an official response from the European Parliament and a meeting with its representatives to present its concerns and supporting documentation in greater detail.

The platform stressed that its initiative does not seek to exempt anyone from individual criminal responsibility, but rather to ensure compliance with universal standards of justice and fundamental human rights.