IOM has been present in Kosovo* since 1999, joining the efforts of the international community to invest in a durable peace process and assist the population in rebuilding their lives and working for the future. Through a large portfolio of projects, IOM Kosovo has worked closely with returnees, minorities, displaced persons within Kosovo and the region, and committed to contribute to their social integration, cohesion and community stabilization.

IOM’s activities, consistent with the strategy of the United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), had gone from short-term reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts, which were an indispensable part of the initial response to the crisis, to supporting longer-term development of Kosovo.  This consists of variety of programmes as the return and reintegration process cannot be separated from decisive socio-economic factors such as social services, employment opportunities, civil society development and the rule of law.

The Kosovo conflict destroyed large parts of the social and economic infrastructure of the country and let people displaced in Kosovo, the area of former Yugoslavia and Europe. Following the Mission Statement of the International Organization for Migration, the IOM Mission in Kosovo has through the years contributed its knowledge and expertise on assisting internally and internationally displaced persons, as well as refugees back home and improving the living conditions for all residents of Kosovo.

Today, IOM Kosovo is implementing several programmes to the benefit of all Kosovars.  Besides its core duties as providing immigration and return assistance, IOM Kosovo has taken a strong grip on migration push factors by implementing projects intended to create job opportunities, support small and medium enterprises and secure more pleasant living environment.

* This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244/1999.