Developments today, 12 October 2000, Updated
4:00 p.m. EST
Civilian administration
KTC urges cautious approach to new government in Belgrade: Members of the KTC today strongly urged a cautious approach to the new government in Belgrade, warning against any hasty decisions. The KTC members said a change in Belgrade does not mean an automatic solution to the problems of Kosovo, UNMIK said in a statement. Albanian members expressed reservations about the lifting of sanctions against the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, especially without linking it to the release of all Kosovo Albanians in Serbian jails and information on the missing persons. However, Serb members opposed the linkage between lifting of sanctions and release of prisoners, pointing out that while Albanian prisoners must be released, something should also be done about the Serbs missing or detained in Kosovo.
Centre for detainees and missing persons opened in Kosovo: The head of UNMIK, Dr. Bernard Kouchner, today opened the Pristina Resource Centre on Detainees and Missing Persons where people can get assistance on missing or detained persons. The Centre is an effort led by UNMIK, with the participation of OSCE and the International Committee on the Red Cross (ICRC), UNMIK said in a statement. Dr. Kouchner said the Centre will support families and "give all that is necessary in terms of economic, psychological and human support".
Humanitarian affairs
UN urges governments to halt forced return of Kosovo refugees until spring: The head of UNMIK, Dr. Bernard Kouchner, has urged governments hosting Kosovo Albanian refugees to halt returns until March 2001 because of lack of adequate accommodation in Kosovo. In a statement issued today, UNMIK said lack of adequate accommodation and the potential overcrowding of temporary shelters were critical issues facing UNMIK and international donors as another winter approaches.
For further information, contact the Spokesman's Office: tel (212) 963-7161/2; fax (212) 963-7055.