In its yearly report on the EU enlargement strategy, the European Commission stresses that "small progress has been made in the field of human rights and minority protection" in Kosovo, and adds that, along with pressure on the freedom of expression and media, "the minorities and other endangered groups face the limitations of the freedom of association and gathering."

 

In the human rights section the report says:

 

Whilst institutional and legal framework to protect freedom of expression improved, undue pressures on the media persist, seriously limiting open public debate. Minorities and other vulnerable groups face restrictions in exercising their freedom of assembly and association.

Religious freedom is not fully respected, attacks on religious sites have persisted and investigations are not always conclusive. The legal aid system is not yet fully functional. Some progress was made in improving the penitentiary system, but infrastructure and security standards need further upgrading.

Awareness of women's rights in society remains low. Legislation on gender equality needs to be further developed and implementation stepped-up. Women need to be further protected against all forms of violence. Children's rights are not fully respected and protection mechanisms are inadequate. The infant mortality rate in Kosovo is still high. The integration and protection of socially vulnerable groups is not fully guaranteed. Anti-discrimination legislation has been developed in line with EU standards but little progress was achieved in its implementation.

Property rights are not always guaranteed and are subject to ambiguities and legal uncertainties. The enforcement of decisions and judgements is weak.

Very little progress has been achieved in relation to returnees, refugees and internally displaced people. The integration and protection of returnees and internally displaced persons is not fully guaranteed.

The rights of minorities in Kosovo are guaranteed by law, but restricted in practice because of security concerns. The government leaders have made efforts to reach out to the minority communities, but these need to be enhanced and followed up by concrete actions. Minorities show increasing confidence in the institution of the ombudsman. However, the enjoyment of minority rights is restricted in light of the overall situation. The Roma, Ashkali and Egyptian communities still face very difficult living conditions and discrimination, especially in the areas of education, social protection, health care, housing and employment. There is still no comprehensive integration strategy for the Roma, Ashkali and Egyptian communities.