German soldiers have been deployed in Kosovo since mid-1999. To date the ceiling on troops has been 1,850. The new mandate provides for a cut in numbers to a maximum of 1,350.

In principle the Bundestag’s mandate for the involvement of armed German troops is not limited, but the German government nevertheless submitted the proposed mandate extension to the parliament for approval.

Situation stable in Kosovo

The situation in the Republic of Kosovo is largely stable, on the basis of the agreements reached between Kosovo and Serbia in August 2015. It is encouraging to note that during the last mandate, KFOR troops were not required to intervene directly. Kosovo’s police force was able to deal independently with security-relevant situations.

Troop reduction possible

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization Council (NATO Council) adopted a new strategy for KFOR in January 2016. It provides for more flexibility in troop numbers. The more important factor is the way the NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) assesses the situation on the ground. He now plans to reduce the number of companies deployed from 14 to 12.

Germany is supporting this approach, which is in line with the given security situation. This is reflected in the fact that Germany has now reduced the ceiling on Bundeswehr troops to 1,350. Nevertheless it is always possible to respond appropriately to any changes in the situation.

Last year about 5,000 soldiers were able to cover the spectrum of duties of KFOR. This figures included between 600 and 650 German soldiers, making German troops the largest contingent, along with the USA and Italy.

German-Austrian reserve

Should more troops be needed, the German-Austrian reserve battalion could be deployed at short notice. It comprises about 710 soldiers, of whom around 524 are German.

During the second half of 2016, the battalion will be ready to deploy within seven days. During the first half of 2017 their status will move to stand-by, meaning that the unit can deploy within14 days.

This 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.

The current mandate of the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo comes to an end in June 2016; negotiations to extend the mission are currently ongoing. In all some 1,400 people work for the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo including 67 German police officers.

Development cooperation

Since 1999, German development cooperation has been supporting Kosovo. A total of more than 480 million euros has since been provided in assistance. This has done much to support economic and social development in the country. For 2016 it is planned to pledge 25.5 million euros. Measures will include activities to expand the country’s power network and to improve solid waste management and sanitation.