The European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) has reinforced its security capabilities ahead of the local elections on October 12 by deploying members of the European Gendarmerie Force (EUROGENDFOR), forming the Specialized Reserve Police Unit (NJPSR).
EULEX Chief Giovanni Pietro Barbano stated during a ceremony attended by ambassadors of contributing countries that this deployment doubles EULEX’s operational capacity and makes the mission better prepared to handle any security situation.
The NJPSR, composed of forces from France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, and Portugal, will conduct patrols and closely cooperate with the Kosovo Police, EULEX, and KFOR.
“You are the mission’s rapid response force, adaptable and quick to react to incidents. Your presence demonstrates that EULEX is equipped not only to monitor and advise but also to act decisively when necessary,” Barbano said.
This marks the sixth deployment of the NJPSR since March 2022.
EULEX remains the EU’s largest civilian mission under the Common Security and Defence Policy, with a mandate to support rule-of-law institutions in Kosovo and contribute to overall security, acting as the second responder after the Kosovo Police and before NATO-led KFOR.
