An international conference documenting war crimes is underway at the University of Prishtina

The second international conference of the Institute of Crimes Committed During the War in Kosovo opened in the amphitheater of the University Central Library. This year's gathering aims to provide a scientific record of the trauma endured by the people of Kosovo during the 1998–1999 war.

In opening the conference, titled "From War to Recovery: A Multidisciplinary Approach Towards Kosovo's War Trauma," speakers stressed that Kosovo cannot achieve full peace or a humanitarian victory without bringing the perpetrators of war crimes to justice.

The scientific documentation of the war crimes committed in Kosovo in the late 1990s was described as essential and urgent. This is particularly true given that Serbia, the northern neighbor responsible for these atrocities, is not reckoning with its past. Instead, it glorifies individuals who have been convicted for war crimes by international and local courts.

Speakers noted that documenting these crimes through rigorous scientific methods and undeniable facts helps prevent their repetition and stops history from being forgotten. They emphasized that the goal of this documentation is not to live in the past, but to build a safer and more hopeful future.

The conference opening was addressed by the Rector of the University of Prishtina, Prof. Arben Hajrullahu, before an audience of local and international scholars, high-ranking state officials, and academic representatives. Welcoming remarks were also given by the Director of the Institute of Crimes Committed During the War in Kosovo, Prof. Atdhe Hetemi, and by Prime Minister Albin Kurti.

Running until February 20, the conference will examine different aspects of the war crimes committed in Kosovo during 1998–1999 and the lasting trauma they caused. Several survivors of massacres from across the country will also share their testimonies.

The scientific papers from this conference will be published in an edited volume this year, overseen by Dr. Catherine Althaus and Dr. Blerina Kellezi. The proceedings from last year's inaugural conference have already been published in a book edited by Professor Aidan Hehir and University of Prishtina assistant Furtuna Sheremeti.