The Use of Force by Police Officers in the Republic of Kosovo

Abstract

The Kosovo Police is one of many police departments in developing nations in Eastern Europe. With the assistance of international partners, including the United States, the United Nations, and the European Union, the Kosovo Police has chosen to establish guiding standards and principles for regional law enforcement agencies. In an effort to create an atmosphere of police accountability and transparency, the Kosovo Police has continued to closely monitor police use of force. The Kosovo Police has developed a Police Use of Force Commission, headed by a high ranking police official, which collects information, conducts investigations, and draws conclusions on every use of force incident that involves the Kosovo Police. A panel of Kosovo Police supervisors reviews each case report within 30 days of occurrence and determines whether the actions were in line with legislation and policy. When the Commission makes a determination that use of force was excessive or inappropriate, disciplinary actions are commenced, and training recommendations are made. It is believed that this monitor will ensure that Kosovo Police personnel will act professionally when they encounter the public, victims, and criminal suspects.