IKKL enriches archive with evidence of the expulsion of Kosovars during 1998–1999

The Institute of Crimes Committed During the War in Kosovo (IKKL) carried out another official visit to Skopje this week as part of its efforts to collect archival documents on the expulsion of Kosovo’s population during 1998–1999. The visit also aimed to identify new sources for the Institute’s research and documentation activities.

Some of the meetings were held at the Macedonian Radio Television (RTM), where IKKL representatives spoke with editor-in-chief Ms. Leunora Kaliqi and her colleagues. An official request to secure archival materials was submitted to the institution, which also expressed its willingness to cooperate institutionally in identifying and obtaining recordings documenting the expulsion of Kosovo’s population.

The Institute’s collection was further expanded with highly significant digital archival materials received from Ms. Merita Çoçoli. The documents contain authentic testimonies about the experiences of people expelled during the war.

During their stay in Skopje, IKKL staff also met with Nexhat Lika, chairman of the “Kalliri i Mirësisë” Humanitarian Organization. He presented the assistance provided by the organization for the treatment, shelter, and feeding of those expelled from Kosovo. The relevant handover record was signed for the delivery of the materials, while the organization undertook to prepare and scan them.

New information and important contacts were also shared by physician Mr. Eljasa Asipi. He stated that he was willing to document, through an interview, his experience treating those expelled during 1999.

The final meeting was held with Besnik Rameti of the Institute of Cultural and Spiritual Heritage in Skopje. Rameti expressed his willingness to make materials available and to help identify other sources related to the war in Kosovo and the expulsion of the civilian population.

The visit represents an important contribution to enriching the IKKL archive and preserving authentic evidence of the crimes and consequences of the war in Kosovo.

IKKL thanked all the institutions and partners for their readiness to help preserve collective memory and document the historical truth.