November 17 Elections in Kosovo

The United States welcomes the commitment to democratic development shown by the people of Kosovo on November 17. Kosovo’s electorate exercised its right to vote and to choose representatives at all levels of government. These elections are also a democratic step forward, since for the first time Assembly members will be selected via open list and mayors will be directly elected. We are pleased that both the pre-election campaign and the elections themselves were conducted peacefully and with respect by all parties for Kosovo's commitments in the ongoing status determination process.

The United States deeply regrets the decision of Kosovo Serbs, encouraged by the Government of Serbia, not to participate in these elections. Kosovo's Serb community can only be disadvantaged by this decision. The U.S. government remains committed to ensuring the rights and security of all Kosovo's ethnic communities and urges their full participation in the political life of Kosovo.

2007/1019