CDHRF: Rights of RAE Population in northern Kosovo Continuously Accused

Luan Ibraj

28 February 2006

The Council for Defense of Human Rights and Freedoms � CDHRF, says that the Roma, Ashkalia and Egyptian IDP�s, which remain in camps in Northern Kosovo since the end of teh war in Kosovo in 1999, live in extremely difficult conditions, exposed to the high risks to their health presented by high lead presence in their blood. This is nothing new and at the same time known to everyone. But, so far nothing serious has been undertaken to rectify their issue�.

The RAE IDPs have protested their situation with the local and international institutions in Kosovo repeatedly, and lately they have addressed the European Court of Human Rights ECHR with a charge against United Nations Administration in Kosovo UNMIK. However, several days ago, the Court has overruled their submission.

So far, CDHRF has reacted several times for the miserable conditions of RAE (Roma, Ashkali and Egyptian) IDP�s in these camps and has requested immediate action to rectify their issue. However, respective bodies of power have shown to be deaf to their appeals.

The latest case of dismissal of RAE community initiative against UNMIK at the European Court of Human Rights is seen by CDHRF as completely unfounded and a continuity of violations of rights of the IDPs in northern Kosovo. The RAE, just like the other citizens of Kosovo, deserve dignified life in Kosovo, states CDHRF.