Pristina, 31 July 2026 – The European Network of National Human Rights Institutions (ENNHRI) has published the report on the state of the rule of law in Europe, to which the Ombudsperson’s Institution for Kosovo contributed.

The report presents a comprehensive assessment of the state of human rights, the rule of law, democratic governance, civic space and institutional accountability in Kosovo. The report highlights both positive developments and ongoing systemic challenges affecting the protection of fundamental rights.

The report concludes that the Ombudsperson’s Institution continues to act independently and in accordance with international standards, while maintaining its central role in the promotion and protection of human rights. The report highlights progress in institutional dialogue and engagement with European processes.

However, significant challenges remain, notably the low level of implementation of the Ombudsperson’s recommendations by public authorities, insufficient parliamentary oversight and delays in the consideration of the Institution’s Annual Reports by the Assembly of Kosovo. The report highlights that these shortcomings continue to weaken accountability mechanisms and reduce the effectiveness of human rights protection.

In the area of ​​the rule of law, the Ombudsperson identifies persistent systemic concerns, including inconsistent implementation of pension rights, shortcomings in the implementation of anti-discrimination legislation, lengthy court proceedings, limited access to justice and insufficient parliamentary oversight. The Ombudsperson Institution’s contributing report also raises concerns regarding media freedom, the safety of journalists and the need for transparent legislative reform.

Regarding civic space, the report finds that while Kosovo continues to provide an open environment for civil society, human rights organizations and defenders are increasingly affected by reductions in international funding and limited domestic financial support. These developments threaten the sustainability of civil society organizations and their ability to provide essential services and advocate for human rights. The Ombudsperson calls for stronger institutional support and sustainable funding mechanisms for civil society.

The report further examines the growing impact of disinformation on democratic processes, noting that the rights to privacy and participation in public life, particularly during elections, are among the most affected. It highlights the need for stronger media regulation, improved media literacy, and increased institutional coordination to effectively address disinformation while respecting human rights standards.

The Ombudsperson reiterates that strengthening democratic accountability, improving the implementation of its recommendations, increasing parliamentary oversight and ensuring sufficient institutional independence remain essential for advancing the protection of human rights and the rule of law in Kosovo.

The institution calls on national authorities, as well as European and regional partners, to continue to support reforms that strengthen transparency, accountability, equality and the effective protection of fundamental rights.

On the other hand, the European Network of National Human Rights Institutions (ENNHRI) has summarized in a report the state of the rule of law in Europe, including developments since 2025, but also topics ranging from the enabling environment of HRIs and the space for civil society, to disinformation and law-making processes. Based on these, recommendations are addressed to state authorities and regional actors to strengthen the rule of law.

According to the report, most European HRIs reported structural challenges affecting their enabling environment, including a persistent lack of sufficient funding and resources. The report highlights that HRIs’ recommendations are not sufficiently implemented by national authorities, and they face obstacles in accessing information. Some HRIs reported disinformation campaigns and attacks against them, their leadership and staff.

Some HRIs reported challenges for civil society, which is being squeezed out of space due to a lack of funding. Others also reported attacks on human rights defenders and the criminalization of their activities, preventing them from operating freely and safely.

The report notes that democratic governance is increasingly being tested across Europe. Disinformation is a multifaceted issue that is undermining trust in institutions and the full enjoyment of human rights. In some European countries, foreign disinformation campaigns have also become a security issue.

Read the full ENHHRI report -> https://bit.ly/4x8jXrc

Read the Kosovo report https://bit.ly/3RZhNvj