October 8, 2015 –Ombudsperson Mr. Hilmi Jashari today met the General Director of Kosovo Police, Mr. Shpend Maxhuni, the first meeting between two institutions since Mr. Jashari’s appointment on the head of Ombudsperson Institution (IO). The meeting was focused on the need of institutional understanding regarding mandates and competencies that both institutions have.

The Ombudsperson pointed out that the mandate of the Institution that he conducts has been strengthened by the new Law on Ombudsperson, which entered into force in July this year, and therefor intensification of cooperation with institutions is requested, with the main emphases on Kosovo Police. This is needed in order to find solution for the cases submitted with the OI.

On the other hand, General Director of Kosovo Police stated that within vast and complex responsibilities that Kosovo Police and its management has, they remain on disposal for identification and improvement of possible shortcomings, with the aim to accomplish the mandate entrusted, provision of services to its citizens.  He stressed that of a great importance is setting a model of cooperation, which will enable addressing of issues that are on citizens’ interest, based on facts and proves, by acknowledging the competencies and appropriate legal framework.

Mr. Jashari and Mr. Maxhuni agreed that in the future, special attention should be given to organization of joint round tables, trainings and workshops in order to become more familiar on mutual work aspects. Furthermore, heads of both institutions agreed that the operationalization of cooperation between Ombudsperson Institution and the Kosovo Police should continue on other levels as well between these institutions, with the primary purpose of good service provision for its citizens.