The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, announced that the mandate of the EU Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) will be extended for another two years, until June 2027.
Kallas made this announcement during a speech addressed to the EULEX staff.
“For all these reasons, we are extending EULEX’s mandate for another two years. Your added value is clearly visible to everyone. EULEX is the largest civilian CSDP mission and the only one operating in the Western Balkans. This is because a secure and prosperous Kosovo is essential for broader security in Europe. It also demonstrates the EU’s commitment to Kosovo and its path towards membership,” Kallas stated.
She emphasized that EULEX’s work has been crucial in building trust between communities and restoring citizens’ confidence in justice institutions.
“It is a pleasure to be here on this sunny day and see firsthand the important work you are doing. For 17 years, EULEX has continuously proven its value. You help strengthen security, uphold the rule of law, and foster reconciliation among local communities. Whether through daily monitoring of sensitive areas, handling detainees in post-conflict environments, advising justice institutions on how best to serve the community, or through your forensic work to clarify the fate of the missing and hold perpetrators accountable — this work is vital for building trust between communities and institutions, and it also helps grieving families turn a new page, which is important for reconciliation.
EULEX has demonstrated the capacity to adapt to circumstances — for example, in 2018, with the transfer of executive responsibilities to local authorities, which was a major achievement underscoring the effectiveness of your cooperation with local institutions.
Recently, following the withdrawal of Serbs from Kosovo institutions and the return of tensions, EULEX quickly adapted again. I want to commend you for your work, particularly the police units here in Mitrovica, where public order has been most at risk, as well as in other parts of the country.
The violent incidents in Zvečan and Banjskë in 2023 were evidence of this. And I cannot forget your work during the February elections. You ensured that the EU’s presence was felt throughout Kosovo during a tense period, reassuring members of all communities about their security. Yesterday, I spoke with leaders of the main political parties here in Kosovo and encouraged them to seize the momentum and establish institutions. Above all, EULEX has demonstrated what good cooperation with NATO looks like in practice by working together,” Kallas added.
