According to information published by Sinjali, the Kosovo Prosecutorial Council has introduced strict confidentiality requirements for observers monitoring the selection process for Kosovo’s next State Chief Prosecutor.
Sources within the KPC reportedly confirmed that monitors must sign a confidentiality declaration before being allowed to observe the process. The document prohibits them from disclosing virtually any information they see, hear, or learn during the monitoring process.
Under the reported rules, monitors are required to keep confidential:
- Information related to candidate verification and evaluation;
- Details concerning candidates’ integrity and professional background;
- Questions asked during interviews;
- Candidates’ answers;
- Internal discussions and deliberations conducted throughout the selection process.
The obligations extend beyond the formal proceedings. Monitors are reportedly forbidden from discussing interview content with anyone outside the process and are not permitted to use phones, internet access, cameras, or other communication devices while monitoring.
In practice, anyone wishing to observe the competition for Kosovo’s highest prosecutorial position must first agree not to publicly disclose any information obtained during the process.
Concerns About Transparency
The reported measures have raised questions about the balance between confidentiality and public transparency, particularly because independent monitors are generally included in such procedures to strengthen public trust, accountability, and the integrity of the selection process.
Critics may argue that excessive confidentiality could limit the ability of monitors to inform the public about potential irregularities, while supporters may contend that strict rules are necessary to protect the integrity of candidates, prevent leaks, and ensure a fair evaluation process.
According to the report, signing the declaration has become a mandatory condition for participation in monitoring the ongoing competition for the position of State Chief Prosecutor, a process that has now entered the external observation phase.
