DEMOCRATIC PARTY

PLATFORM FOR KOSOVO

Before one tries to address different types of the solutions for the growing problem of Kosovo, one should stop and ask:

- Is the problem clearly defined?
- Is the problem complex, can parts of the problem be separated?
- Can the problem be solved as a whole or part by part?

The assumption for the solution of the problem is its precise definition.

Definition of Kosovo problem

The problem of Kosovo has at least three dimensions. The right solution of this problem is possible only if one takes into account all of the three dimensions, but it is not necessary that all are solved at the same time. Also, for the solution of certain elements of the problem, the co-operation of all participants is not necessary. On the whole, this co-operation is necessary, but in particular steps one-side actions are possible.

Three dimensions of Kosovo problem

1. In Kosovo there is a serious problem of functioning of the rule of law. On one hand, there is an issue of convincing institutional guarantees of human, civil and minority rights. On the other hand, willingness of the Albanian population to fulfil their obligations towards the institutions is missing.

2. In Kosovo there is a problem of the status of ethnic Albanian community. This is an issue of institutionalising their collective status. Therefore, this is the question of an autonomy, whatever one considers under this term.

3. Finally, the Albanian question has a regional dimension, crossing the boundaries of one state. Albanians are compact population inhabiting a part of Serbia, Macedonia, and bordering with Albania.

The breakout of a crisis in one part of the region would most probably lead to the chain reaction and destabilisation of the whole region. Also, it is logical to assume that there is an influence coming from Albania. This influence can be constructive or destructive, directed towards discouraging or encouraging of the radical groups in Kosovo.

If one divides the problem of Kosovo in this manner, one can resolve the parts where the chances for the solution are the greatest. It is obvious that the question of status is the most difficult and therefore one should not begin with this issue. The third dimension seems the easiest: How to solve the problem of Kosovo as the regional problem?

Goal

Firm agreement of all regional participants regarding the constructive approach towards this problem is necessary. This approach includes clear acceptance of certain obligations of the neighbouring countries.

These obligations mean that the neighbouring countries will not publicly or secretly, support political forces that do not recognise state borders and which are working towards further destabilisation. Publicly, the moderates will be encouraged, and the radical politicians and organisations will be discouraged.

Participants

Federal Republic of Yugoslavia
Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
Albania
Greece

Method

The Democratic Party suggests the creation of the permanent commission consisted of the representatives of the participant countries. The task of this commission would be to gradually build regional trust and, within the framework of international conventions, discuss the steps for the stabilisationof the situation in the region.

First step

The Democratic Party would create its group for the regional initiative. This DP group would be sent to Skopje, Tirana, and Athens to present the suggestion for the solution of the problem. Also, the appropriate memorandum would be sent to all the governments of the region. Suitable religious structures, representatives of the political parties, public figures, etc., of the participant countries should also be involved.

Funcioning of the rule of law

The next extremely important issue regarding the problem of Kosovo is functioning of the rule of law.

Goal

To start Serbian government activities aimed at securing individual and minority rights, which are not linked, to the status of the province, i.e. to the autonomy.

Problem

Non-existence of instruments, i.e. institutions, which would secure the exercising of the rights stipulated by the constitution and laws.

Method of solution

To establish a Serbian Government multiparty commission for Kosovo. This commission -- made up of respectable judges and lawyers, non- party activists from the humanitarian organizations and civil servants -- would have a task to daily monitor the situation in the field of individual and collective rights of all citizens of Kosovo. It would collect documentation, initiate researches on particular cases and suggest initiatives to the government.

Commission staff

Mixed Serb-ethnic Albanian. The issue of parity would not exist since the Commission would not vote during its work.

Minimal result

To build up mutual confidence, to lower the influence of rumors, to weaken the radical elements, to suppress misconduct justified with the state reasons, to increase the international credibility of Serbia.

Question of the status

There is neither a clear answer to the question of Kosovo, nor is there a fixed deadline. Kosovo problem must be solved through the political process. The solution must satisfy two demands: to preserve the integrity of the country and to guarantee real autonomy. On one hand, the integrity should not be understood just as the preservation of the existing borders, but more essentially, as a daily, unchallenged process of the integration inside of the state borders. On the other hand, the autonomy should not be an empty shell, but the package of institutions with real power.

At this moment, it is not possible to determine the real relation between these two legitimate demands. The solution can only be a part of a political process, i.e. of the relevant political communication among all parties involved in the problem: Serbian Government, Kosovo Albanians, Kosovo Serbs, the Church and other institutions. The time element is also of great importance. If the process of integration in Serbia strengthens (the democratization and economic development) chances for autonomy will rise.

But in order to achieve the relevant political communication, at least in order to open a dialogue, the Kosovo problem must move from the dead end.

That is not possible only by initiating the question of the status, i.e. autonomy. This dimension of the problem is furthest one from the solution. In order to begin the talks on this issue a substantial level of mutual confidence is essential.

Suggestion

To promote a rational definition of Kosovo problem and gradually suppress emotional and irrational definitions; to encourage the readiness for engagement in resolving of any given part of the problem; spreading the sense of reality, i.e. suppressing exaggerated expectations.

Order of the steps

To start with the first and the third dimensions.

Zoran Djindjic
Belgrade, January 29, 1998.

NOTE: The draft has been written by the President of the Democratic Party, Dr. Zoran Djindjic, and has been discussed by the members of the Party Political Council and the Party Presidency.