The Kosovo Academy of Sciences and Arts (KAS) issued a public statement on Tuesday. It expressed deep concern over the sentences requested by the Specialist Prosecutor.

The statement addresses four former KLA leaders. They are Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Jakup Krasniqi, and Rexhep Selimi.

KAS called for full respect of international justice standards. It urged strict protection of human rights. It cited Kosovo’s Constitution and the European Convention on Human Rights.

The Academy warned against political influence. It said such interference would damage the legitimacy and impartiality of the trial.

KAS highlighted the historical role of the KLA. It described the war as a struggle to protect civilians and liberate Kosovo. It said this contribution cannot be stigmatized or relativized.

The statement rejected any attempt to downplay crimes against Kosovo’s civilian population. It said the KLA war and Albanian sacrifices are documented history. It warned that one-sided interpretations threaten collective memory and justice.

KAS proposed independent monitoring mechanisms. It asked Kosovo institutions to oversee potential human rights violations by the Specialist Chambers. It stressed transparency, accountability, and international standards.

The prosecution has requested 45-year prison sentences for each defendant. The charges include war crimes and crimes against humanity. The alleged crimes date from March 1998 to September 1999 in Kosovo and northern Albania.

The Academy of Sciences of Albania also shared and supported the statement.

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