The declaration of independence of the Republic of Kosovo on 17 February 2008
After the war of 1998-1999, Kosovo was placed under the international administration of the United Nations through the UNMIK mission (United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo), which was tasked with creating conditions for stability and democratic development. During this period, KFOR (NATO’s peacekeeping force) ensured peace and security throughout the territory of Kosovo. The Kosovo Transitional Council also played an important role as a representative body of political parties and
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communities, preceding the establishment of the Provisional Institutions of Self-Government (PISG). After the death of President Ibrahim Rugova in 2006, Kosovo entered a complex political period, characterized by significant changes in leadership and the balance among the main political parties, posing major challenges for stability and the process of negotiating Kosovo’s final status. This period culminated with the 2007 elections, which paved the way for the declaration of independence on 17 February 2008.