Italian Embassy echoes EU concern over demolition of homes near Lake Ujman

The concern expressed by the European Union regarding the demolition of homes along Lake Ujman has been joined by the Italian Embassy in Pristina. Through its official Facebook page, this diplomatic mission republished the earlier reaction of the European bloc.

The action to demolish 11 residential buildings on the lakeshore, in the territory of the municipality of Zubin Potok, began on July 24. The reasoning given by the authorities was that these structures were built without permits on property managed by the Public Water Management Enterprise “Ibër-Lepenci”.

The European Union voiced concern that in this case, as well as in several other events that have occurred in northern Kosovo since February, a proper legal process was not followed. The bloc’s call was clear: it demanded the immediate halt of any further demolitions, forced evictions, or confiscations until issues related to due process, proportionality, property rights, human rights, and effective legal remedies are properly addressed.

In its reaction, the EU stressed the necessity for institutions to cooperate without delay with the affected citizens and municipalities, aiming to find solutions within the legal framework.

The demolition operations were carried out with the support of the Kosovo Police, and the EU noted that its role in such actions must remain strictly in line with its legal mandate, based on well-defined orders or decisions from relevant authorities, and properly documented.

The statement also emphasized that irreversible enforcement measures, taken while procedures and contested property claims are ongoing, raise serious questions about the rule of law. Referring to Kosovo’s European path, the EU expects the authorities to address these concerns with urgency and transparency and to ensure that similar actions are not repeated.