On Friday 19 May, the EU heads of mission in Kosovo (the special representative, the head of the Eulex mission, and the heads of member states' missions in the country) called for a calm and open campaign, and for early general elections, on 11 June 2017, that are in line with international standards.
"We share the hope for a calm and open pre-election campaign where disagreements are voiced in a constructive and peaceful manner that promotes pluralism and tolerance for different views", a joint press release states. It adds that the Kosovans have the right to choose their own leaders, "without fear or interference" and that this is a sacred principle. The EU heads of mission in Kosovo also hoped that very large numbers of Kosovans would turn out to vote.
The representatives of the EU and its member states called on all parties and participants in the elections to ensure that they are conducted in line with international standards. "It is important that the campaign rhetoric and actions provide for informed voter choice in an atmosphere of peace, tolerance, inclusiveness and respect, so that the final result is acceptable to all", they stated.
The EU heads of mission also wanted the parties to ensure that they propose candidates "suitable" for the high office they hold, and they added that Kosovo deserves representatives "of high moral standing and authority". (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)