The European Union Office in Kosovo plays a pivotal role in implementing the EU agenda in the territory, especially in the promotion of European norms. The Office ensures permanent political and technical dialogue between Kosovo and the EU institutions.

Civil society organisations (CSOs) have a vital role in the reforms carried out in candidates and potential candidates for EU membership, and the European Commission (EC) is willing to intensify its own support for civil society development in these countries.

There is a significant increase in financial assistance to civil society projects under the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA) and the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR). In addition, the EC continues improving consultations with civil society representativesand works towards other measures to bolster civil society, such as improving donor coordination and working towards visa-free travel for citizens of the candidates and potential candidates.

The EC Liaison Office to Kosovo engages in a regular dialogue with CSOs in Kosovo during the Progress Report drafting process and after. Each year, the EC Liaison Office invites CSOs to provide input for the annual reporting exercise, and to discuss the findings of the report after its publication. Prior to the Progress Report drafting, CSOs are invited to provide their input to the sectoral meetings of the Stabilisation and Association Dialogue.

For more information on EU activities in Kosovo click here.