Kosovo’s President, Vjosa Osmani, has expressed concern about recent issues related to food supplies for the Kosovo Security Force (FSK). In response, she has requested a detailed report from the FSK commander, Lieutenant General Bashkim Jashari. Additionally, Osmani has called for a meeting with both Jashari and Minister of Defense, Ejup Maqedonci, to further discuss the matter, as confirmed by her advisor, Bekim Kupina, in a statement to Telegrafi.

Why is this important: The issue has the potential to impact the operational readiness and development of the FSK, as well as its institutional image and integrity. President Osmani is working within her competencies to address the situation and resolve the problem, which is crucial for ensuring the effective functioning of Kosovo’s security forces.

Context: Kupina also revealed that President Osmani had previously proposed a state-level support program aimed at enhancing the socio-economic well-being of the FSK, which includes improvements in pay, benefits, and living conditions. However, the implementation of this program requires budgetary backing, which must be included in Kosovo’s state budget—proposed by the government and approved by the parliament.

The proposed 7-point support program for the FSK includes:

1. Hazard pay for risky duties.
2. Overtime and on-call payments.
3. Full per diem coverage during overseas training and education.
4. Activation of the military hospital with secondary and tertiary healthcare services.
5. Improved food quality standards.
6. Affordable housing solutions for military personnel and their families.
7. Establishment of a credit fund for military personnel.

The realization of this program, according to Kupina, is critical for enhancing the operational capacity of the FSK as it transitions and develops to fulfill its constitutional mission of defending Kosovo’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Current situation: The food supply issue has become a widely discussed topic in Kosovo. While the Ministry of Defense has assured the public that all FSK barracks are fully operational and providing a variety of meals, they acknowledged a shortage of technical staff, which has delayed the food supply process. However, the ministry noted that this issue will be resolved once the hiring process for new staff, currently underway, is completed within 45 days.