Inclusion of minorities in Kosovo through institutional recognition of linguistic rights

Sa？etak To what extent a well-designed legislation and policy, low thresholds for language recognition and institutionally established mechanism aimed at promoting and protecting linguistic rights contribute to the integration of minorities in post-conflict societies? Language is an essential element of cultural identity, enabling groups and individuals to freely express themselves, gain full access to public services and to allow their equal participation in public life. There are many dimensions upon which language is studied in relation to integration, while there are also different areas where exercise of this fundamental right is measured, such as education, political participation, protection of cultural identity and access to services etc. All of them are equally important and should be taken into consideration when developing a national policy framework. In this article, I elaborate on legal and policy framework established in Kosovo after 2000, outline the application of linguistic rights provisions at central and local level, elaborate on the concepts of official languages, languages in official use and the thresholds applied for recognition of a language. In addition, I will elaborate on institutional mechanisms foreseen to protect and promote linguistic rights in Kosovo. This institutional design policy and mechanisms created in Kosovo are unique in itself, while also throughout the Balkans and further. Finally, I shall conclude by evaluating whether legal and policy standards applied have contributed to the integration of minorities in Kosovo’s public life and its long-lasting effects in ensuring stability and preventing tensions between different minorities