The Municipality of Junik marked a historic moment in its post-war history by successfully completing the full clearance of areas contaminated with dangerous war remnants.
Mayor Ruzhdi Shehu described the achievement as a vital step for the safety, well-being, and future of Junik’s citizens, noting that a silent threat that had endangered residents for years now belongs to the past.
The demining and clearance process was carried out by the international organization HALO Trust, with strong support from international partners, particularly the United States and Switzerland, who played a key role in financing and supporting this humanitarian mission.
Shehu’s full statement:
*”Today we marked a special moment for our municipality, completing a process vital for the safety and future of Junik.
With the extraordinary dedication of HALO Trust and the invaluable support of our international partners, especially the United States and Switzerland, we managed to clear areas contaminated with war remnants—a silent threat that for years endangered the lives of our citizens.
I was honored to have high-level international representatives present at this important event, including the Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Kosovo, Ms. Anu Pratipati, and the Ambassador of Switzerland in Kosovo, Mr. Jürg Sprecher, along with many partners and collaborators who contributed to this major achievement.
From the border areas in the Junik mountains to the heart of the town, spaces that once posed danger are now safe zones for life, development, and the future of our community.
I firmly believe that every cleared area is one more step toward safety, trust, and a better future for every citizen of Junik.
A safer Junik today, for a brighter tomorrow.”*
