A delegation of the Advisory Committee on the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities will be visiting Kosovo* (Pristina, Obiliq/Obilić, Mitrovica/Mitrovicë, Gračanica/Graçanicë) from 14-18 November 2016 to evaluate the progress made in protecting the rights of non-majority communities in Kosovo*.

The Advisory Committee will hold meetings with community representatives, international organisations and central and local authorities in different regions of Kosovo* to discuss the situation and current concerns. This fourth visit is carried out under the specific agreement concluded between the Council of Europe and UNMIK (United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo) in 2004. It follows the receipt of the fourth progress report, drafted by the OSCE and submitted by UNMIK in March 2016.

The Delegation includes Ms. Tove H MALLOY, member of the Advisory Committee in respect of Denmark, Mr. Detlev REIN, member of the Advisory Committee in respect of Germany, and Ms. Elisabeth SÁNDOR-SZALAY, member of the Advisory Committee in respect of Hungary, as well as Ms. Gisella GORI of the Secretariat of Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities.

Following the visit, the Advisory Committee will draw up its fourth Opinion on the implementation of the Framework Convention in Kosovo*, containing specific findings and recommendations for follow-up.

* All reference to Kosovo, whether to the territory, institutions or population, in this text shall be understood in full compliance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 and without prejudice to the status of Kosovo.