Pristina, 28 may - The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the right to adequate housing, Leilani Farha, today welcomed the inclusion of international human rights law in legislation and strategies at central and local levels in Kosovo. 

However, at the end of a visit to Pristina and Mitrovica, the human rights expert expressed concern that the deep gap between law and its implementation renders housing inadequate for the most vulnerable groups in Kosovo, particularly internally displaced persons, Roma, Ashkali and Egyptian minorities and women.

“Laws and strategies are clear about equality and non-discrimination and housing, and yet I heard testimonies of very poor housing conditions, including lack of water and electricity, for minority groups,” she said

Ms. Farha learned that the resolution of the complex issues related to land and property restitution, cadasters and the effective return to homes, is the top priority of all authorities and other actors with whom she met. “More proactive measures are required to address the unresolved tensions arising from conflict and displacement, and their implication for the enjoyment of the right to adequate housing,” she advised.

The Special Rapporteur was also struck by the inequality women face in Kosovo in relation to inheritance, housing, and property, all essential for the enjoyment of the right to adequate housing. “I also heard that women and children trying to escape domestic violence have few housing options and often have to return to violent situations,” she said.

The human rights expert was also informed of deplorable housing conditions in collective centers. “I was appalled to learn that some residents have been living in these centers --which were only meant as temporary accommodation-- for over 10 years,” the Special Rapporteur stressed.

“I urge the Kosovar authorities to move swiftly to close these centers and to ensure that all residents are resettled in dignified living conditions with access to services,” Ms. Farha said.

“The people of Kosovo, regardless of their ethnicity, share a keen sense that housing is far more than four walls and a roof, and is closely linked with community, employment opportunities and security,” the expert noted. “This should be the goal for all actors engaged in housing programmes.”

During her two-day visit to Kosovo, the Special Rapporteur met with central and local government officials, independent institutions including the Ombudsperson, civil society, lawyers, academics and the international community. She also had the opportunity to meet with some residents.