The Austrian Army is marking the 25th anniversary of its mission in Kosovo. The Austrian Federal Army has been involved in the mission in Kosovo since 1999. Since then, a total of 24,400 Austrian soldiers have participated in the KFOR mission in Kosovo.
The 50th contingent is currently in Kosovo. The Federal Army supports the maintenance of public order and security, assists international organizations, and participates in the reconstruction of the region. Due to its geographical location in relation to Kosovo, Austria has a particular interest in the peaceful and sustainable development of the entire Balkans.
Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner stated that the last 25 years have made it clear that the Federal Army plays an important role in international operations such as the KFOR mission in Kosovo and is therefore also a reliable international partner.
“For the Armed Forces, participating in missions like this not only means ensuring peace and security but also building a bridge between different nations and contributing to international solidarity. The KFOR operation shows that a peaceful mission requires close cooperation at all levels—from the international community to individual soldiers. I want to thank all the soldiers who were deployed or are currently deployed and are performing their service for peace,” she said in a media statement.
The Austrian Armed Forces have participated in the KFOR operation since July 2, 1999. The main task of the “Kosovo Force” (KFOR) is to provide a safe environment and freedom of movement in Kosovo. The basis for deployment is the mandate of UN Resolution 1244 and the Federal Government’s decision in 1999. The deployment of peacekeepers is carried out under NATO’s direction, which divides Kosovo into areas of responsibility. Each of these areas is managed by a “Lead Nation.” Currently, around 150 soldiers are part of the “50th Austrian Contingent/Kosovo Force” (AUTCON/KFOR) – they are deployed throughout Kosovo.
Since 1960, more than 100,000 Austrian soldiers and civilian helpers have participated in international support for peace and humanitarian missions. The three largest foreign missions are led by the European Union in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the KFOR mission in Kosovo, and the UN Blue Helmets mission in Lebanon. Currently, around 1,500 soldiers are on duty in a total of 11 foreign missions.
