UNMIK/PR/167
PRISTINA--On the occasion of the start of the first training course for the Kosovo Protection Corps, SRSG Bernard Kouchner reminded the KPC leaders of their responsibilities in building a new Kosovo society.
The 45 men and one woman were embarking on a course which would elaborate on the roles and relationships of UNMIK, KFOR and the KPC. These key leaders were sworn in during a ceremony last month. Mid-level KPC leaders are in the process of being appointed around Kosovo, and the full corps of 3,000 active members and 2,000 reservists will be named by the end of March.
"Today marks a critical step forward in the development of the KPC," Dr. Kouchner told the group. "The leadership training you receive here will orient you firmly in your new role as part of the civilian government."
The course will introduce KPC leaders to the Corps role as a civilian emergency management organization. They will study human rights standards, strategic management and the mission of the KPC.
"The most important element of your training is your understanding of your obligations to society, to all its people regardless of ethnicity or language, and of the limits of your role," Dr. Kouchner said.
"You are responsible for emergency management--a critical function in any society. You are not involved in law enforcement. Leave that to the police," he said.
"In time the KPC will develop into a highly respected organization with linkages to European counterparts. In its nascent stages, we will all share challenges: finding resources, preventing crises and ensuring the role you once filled as soldiers is left to KFOR….
"It is now time to focus on your future and the future of democratic Kosovo. You have long been soldiers for your cause. Now you must take up your obligation as citizens and rebuild Kosovo."
Dr. Kouchner said the KPC would have the full backing and support of UNMIK as long as they acted in accordance with democratic principles. Violations of those principles would not only benefit the government of FRY President Milosevic, he said, but would also cost the KPC its international support. "You will have no special protection from the law," Kouchner added.
Kouchner acknowledged that incidents had occurred involving provisional members of the KPC in the preceding period of transition from the structures of the Kosovo Liberation Army.
"The formal establishment of the KPC and the training launched here today enables us to solve challenges together, he said. "You have sworn an oath to the government, and you will be held strictly accountable for those under your supervision."
Kouchner concluded by reminding the leaders of their opportunity to contribute to a rebuilding process which will take "time and stability," he said. "Together we can do the best for all of Kosovo's people."