Former Dutch ambassador to Kosovo, Robert Bosch, reacted strongly to the decision of the Specialist Chambers to hold a court hearing against former President Hashim Thaçi precisely on November 28, the most significant date in Albanian history — Flag Day.
In a Facebook post, Bosch expressed agreement with Thaçi’s criticisms, emphasizing that scheduling such a hearing on a day of deep national symbolism for Albanians was not only inappropriate but also an unnecessary provocation that reflects a basic lack of cultural sensitivity.
He shared Thaçi’s statements, in which the former president rightfully pointed out that November 28 is not an ordinary day, but one that represents the history, tradition, and national pride of Albanians. Thaçi noted that holding a court session on this date was “an unpleasant surprise” and that the court should have avoided it.
Bosch added that while he respects the rule of law and has personally complied with judicial procedures when required, judicial institutions must recognize that justice does not operate in a vacuum. According to him, courts have a responsibility to take into account the national sensitivities of the parties involved and to respect the symbolic dates of nations—especially when those dates are tied to their identity and history.
With this reaction, Bosch joins many voices criticizing the Specialist Chambers for lacking respect and awareness toward an entire people — once again placing the institution at the center of accusations for a cold, bureaucratic, and detached approach to reality.
