20/04/2026 Session
The early elections to the Assembly of Kosovo* on 28 December 2025, prompted by a prolonged political stalemate, were conducted smoothly following a subdued campaign, according to the PACE delegation – the only international organisation to observe these elections, alongside an EU mission of electoral experts. The election observation report, presented today by Yunus Emre (Türkiye, SOC), refers to a generally inclusive and “technically well-prepared process despite tight deadlines”, as well as the absence of formal complaints. The delegation also noted some improvement in modalities for out-of-country voting.
However, during the election period, the delegation observed several key issues about the impartiality of the electoral authorities – especially regarding the rights of non-majority communities – gaps in campaign financing oversight, and concerns about media independence and journalists safety.
The report underlines that the most critical issue was “the large-scale manipulation of preferential votes during the counting process”. Although the Central Election Commission (CEC) ordered a recount of all preferential votes and these serious allegations have led to extensive criminal investigations, these irregularities “undermine the credibility of the electoral administration and erode public trust in the electoral process”, the report emphasises. The Assembly urged the authorities to complete ongoing investigations, identify those responsible and take decisive action against these practices, which “fundamentally compromise the integrity of the elections”.
In order to strengthen the integrity and inclusiveness of the electoral process, the delegation encouraged the authorities to address several key issues, including: ensuring the de-politicisation of the CEC so that election management bodies act impartially; updating the voters’ list based on accurate and up-to-date data; and reviewing the procedures for counting preferential votes. In this context, the PACE and the Venice Commission are prepared to work with the authorities of Kosovo to improve the electoral framework and strengthen the capacities of the electoral administration.
Finally, the delegation urged all parties in the Assembly to act responsibly in electing a president and maintaining functioning institutions.
*All reference to Kosovo, whether to the territory, institutions or population shall be understood in full compliance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 and without prejudice to the status of Kosovo.