On 16–17 April 2026, CEPEJ organised two workshops with judges and State Advocates representing public administrations to demonstrate that mediation in administrative matters is not only feasible, but already functioning effectively in several European justice systems. Building on the CEPEJ Guide “Promoting mediation to resolve administrative disputes in Council of Europe member States”, participants also exchanged views on the role of judges and State Advocates in identifying cases suitable for referral to mediation, in particular through practical assessment criteria, and on the categories of administrative disputes that could be concerned in Kosovo. Enhancing the efficiency and quality of administrative justice is a key priority under the Rule of Law Strategy. The new Law on Administrative Disputes, in force since January 2025, introduces important reforms, including the use of mediation in administrative cases. The challenge now lies in translating these legal provisions into everyday practice. The new Administrative Court is set to become operational on 5 May 2026.

This activity was organised by the KoSEJ III action “Strengthening the Quality and Efficiency of Justice in Kosovo”, which is part of the joint programme entitled "Horizontal Facility of the Western Balkans and Turkey III", co-funded by the European Union and the Council of Europe and implemented by the Council of Europe.

* This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo Declaration of Independence.