Bundeswehr troops have been deployed in Kosovo since mid-1999. In 2016 the ceiling on troops was reduced to 1,350. The new draft mandate provides for a further reduction to 800.

The Bundestag mandate regarding the involvement of armed German troops is in fact unlimited. Nevertheless, the German government will submit the mandate to the German Bundestag and request its approval.

Situation stable in Kosovo

Kosovo’s own security bodies are increasingly able to ensure public order and safety without the support of the international security forces in the country.

The presence of international troops (Kosovo Force or KFOR) nevertheless remains an important part of the security structure in order to maintain a safe, secure and stable environment.

Troop numbers can be reduced

In 2016 the North Atlantic Council decided to handle the military forces flexibly depending on developments on the ground. At the NATO summit in Warsaw on 6 and 7 July 2016, the NATO heads of state and government reaffirmed their support for this flexible approach.

The German government is now taking account of this, with the ceiling on German troops reduced by 550 to a new level of 800. The armed forces will, however, still be able to respond appropriately to any changes in the situation.

German troops are making an important contribution to further stabilising the entire region through their continued involvement in KFOR.

German-Austrian reserve

Last year KFOR managed to meet all its commitments with around 4,400 soldiers. The German contingent numbered about 550. Germany, along with the USA and Italy, provides the largest contingent of troops.

Should the security situation deteriorate, KFOR can still be used to support the Kosovo police force and the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX). In response to any further escalation, the Austrian-German reserve battalion "Operational Reserve Force" could also be activated.

The mission is based on the UN Security Council Resolution 1244 (1999). The Republic of Kosovo has always wanted a continuing KFOR presence in the country.

Civilian assistance complements military support

The presence of international troops (KFOR) is still necessary in order to stabilise the general environment. The military component also provides security for the civilian European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo, which dates back to 2008. It supports the government of Kosovo in establishing rule-of-law structures.

Development cooperation

Since 1999 Germany’s development cooperation with Kosovo has also done much to foster the country’s economic and social development. Assistance to date totals 551.5 million euros.

In 2016 Germany pledged 41.5 million euros. This sum is to be used for measures to promote the rule of law and to extend the country’s power grid. Germany is also providing support in the field of basic education and youth employment, as well as strengthening small and medium businesses.