OSCE calls for broader approach to protect heritage in Kosovo

Alex Halada/AFP (ilustracija)

The OSCE Mission in Kosovo said that a broader approach is needed to protecting cultural heritage in Kosovo.

The report, which covers the 2014-2020 period, said that “the effective protection of cultural heritage in Kosovo should not be limited to physical restoration and that a broader approach is needed”. “Inclusive management, imaginative spatial planning, awareness raising, and training for cultural heritage personnel are also required to ensure the preservation of cultural heritage,” a press release quoted it as saying.

“The report notes that, while many provisions are already in place, full implementation requires a better coordinated approach. The report also highlights the need to amend the Law on Cultural Heritage and fully align primary and secondary legislation to ensure a more coherent approach to cultural heritage,” it added.

“The OSCE Mission has consistently supported efforts to protect and promote the rich and varied cultural legacy in Kosovo, as the effective preservation of cultural heritage is important for all communities,” mission chief Ambassador Michael Davenport is quoted as saying and adding that the report will help institutions in their efforts to preserve and protect cultural heritage.

The report lists a number of recommendations to key institutions to enhance the protection and valorization of cultural heritage, including: to introduce management plans for cultural heritage sites, to conduct heritage impact assessments for planned interventions, to adopt a more inclusive definition of cultural heritage, and to enhance the resilience of cultural heritage sites against climate change and intentional destruction, the press release said.