Support to the development of the institutions of Kosovo

Description What is done in the programme or project and why, what results are pursued, who benefits from the activities and who are involved in the implementation.

During the period of supervised independence of Kosovo, the International Civilian Office ICO provided oversight and administrative support for the ICR appointees and consultants in Kosovo institutions (Auditor General, Constitutional Court, Kosovo Property Agency, Kosovo Pension Savings Trust, Privatization Agency of Kosovo). Finland has supported the ICO activities in Kosovo. Following the declaration of the End of Supervised Independence (ESI) in September 2012 and the termination of the ICO:s mandate, the ICO and the Kosovo authorities propose to continue support to The Appointees Project till the middle of the year 2014. This support and capacity building will facilitate stability in Kosovo. The further support will be channelled through the international organisation International Management Group (IMG). The Finnish support to the development of the institutions of Kosovo is proposed to be continued and earmarked for the salary/per diems of the Portuguese judge of the Constitutional Court of Kosovo. The support which will be channelled through IMG is coordinated with the EU Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo. Support to the government administration sector of Kosovo is ODA-eligible. The Unit for EU Enlargement and Western Balkans is prepared to disburse 66 880 euros for this purpose in the year 2012. Finland will be a member of the Committee on Appointees.