Pristina, June 5th 2023 – On the occasion of marking the World Environment Day, the Ombudsperson reiterates the importance of the engagement of public institutions in the country, for undertaking the necessary actions and measures for the protection and preservation of the environment, so that the citizens of the country are provided with an clean and healthy environment, and accessible life for all, without distinction.

The year 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of World Environment Day, which this year focuses on solutions to plastic pollution, and its impact on health, the economy and the environment.

Although the protection of the environment is listed among the values on which the constitutional order of our country is based, given that the environment is the main factor affecting the well-being and health of citizens, it can be estimated that our country still faces various environmental problems, which have failed to find adequate treatment from the responsible institutions.

The poor air quality and its impact on citizens’ health continues to be a concern; degradation, pollution, concreting and indiscriminate alteration of lands; deficiencies in the management of illegal landfills; noise management; deficiencies in information and the involvement of citizens in decision-making processes related to environmental issues; degradation of rivers; failure to control the compliance of construction objects under construction and those completed, with construction permits; the delay in the procedures for issuing permits/certificates of use as well as the access to justice or the delays in the processes initiated in the prosecutor’s office and courts related to environmental issues.

The Ombudsperson points out that, in particular, work should be done on the improvement of public spaces and the elimination of physical barriers to access to the environment, to ensure free and unhindered movement in public spaces for all citizens, and in particular for persons with disabilities.

The Ombudsperson invites all responsible institutions to orientate action policies in undertaking concrete steps to promote the creation of a healthy and accessible environment for all. The Ombudsman is constantly engaged in dealing with various environmental issues and promoting respect for the right to a safe and healthy environment.