USAID continues to assist the Kosovo Judicial Council and the courts to implement their reorganization efforts to improve court efficiency and transparency.  The reform focuses on the implementation of procedural and administrative changes, as well as court facility upgrades. 

In that regard, on May 13 Kosovo judicial leaders, together with representatives of the U.S. and Norway, inaugurated the newly renovated Lipjan/Lipljan Branch Court of the Pristina Basic Court. 

“Kosovo needs efficient rule of law to address issues such as crime and corruption, both of which impede Kosovo’s progress, discourage investment and delay Kosovo’s integration into the EU. Citizens of Kosovo deserve better, and the U.S. Government supports actions that will address these issues vigorously.  We believe that all people are equal, and justice should be equal for all,” said Daniel Rosenblum, US Coordinator for Assistance to Europe and Eurasia, who spoke at the inaugural ceremony. 

The Branch Court of Lipjan/Lipljan is the third renovation completed under the new Kosovo court reorganization that became effective in January 2013.  The renovation and refurbishment of court facilities in Kosovo is made possible through the USAID-administered Model Court Program, with additional funding from the Government of Norway. 

The physical transformation of the court building promotes transparency and efficiency of court operations as two key standards of court administration.