 Guided by the universal principles and standards on human rights and fundamental freedoms, adopted and proclaimed in: the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, other international instruments as well as The Constitution of the Republic of Kosovo;
 Recalling the principle of indivisibility, inalienability and inviolability of human rights and fundamental freedoms, equality before the law, equal treatment and non-discrimination, the aforementioned principles adopted in Chapter II, provisions of Articles 21 and 24 of the Constitution of the Republic of Kosovo;
 Pointing out the importance of recognition, protection and respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms;
 In support of principles and values proclaimed in provisions of the Human Rights package of Laws;
 Taking in consideration the liability of providing effective legal remedies for protection of human rights and freedoms in Kosovo;
 Motivated for delivering a strong message for additional inclusive and cross-institutional engagement in promotion and respect of human rights and freedoms;
 Committed and dedicated in undertaking joint actions, with particular emphasis on development of effective cooperation in respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all;

The Ombudsperson and Non-Governmental Organizations of the Republic of Kosovo, under the motto “Stand up for human rights”, united in this joint initiative, on December 10, 2017 on Human Rights’ International Day, in Prishtina, unanimously signed the Joint Declaration, the aim of which is protection of fundamental rights and freedoms equally for all citizens without discrimination, thus:
We call upon institutions of Republic of Kosovo for establishing effective measures for enforcement and protection of human rights and freedoms, as defined by the Constitution of Kosovo and international instruments.
We call upon all stakeholders of state powers to strengthen their efforts in promoting and raising awareness on human rights and have due respect for fundamental human rights and freedoms;

We request from the Government of the Republic of Kosovo to address with priority human rights issues in Kosovo and to provide stronger institutional support in protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms, mechanisms in protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms, as well as non-governmental organizations.

Prishtinë,
10 December 2017

Signatories of the Declaration:
Hilmi Jashari – Ombudsperson

Representatives of Non-governmental Organizations in Kosovo