The European Union is holding talks with Kosova’s government over changes to the law governing the Specialist Chambers, Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos said.

The Democratic Party of Kosova initiated the amendments, which parliament approved on October 6. The move raised EU concerns about Kosova’s international obligations and the court’s independence. President Justina Shiroka Pula returned the law to parliament for reconsideration on October 22.

The changes followed protests against the September 16 convictions of four former Kosovo Liberation Army leaders for war crimes. Demonstrators demanded legal changes and greater institutional support for former President Hashim Thaçi, former parliamentary speakers Kadri Veseli and Jakup Krasniqi, and former MP Rexhep Selimi.

Kos said the amendments risk undermining progress and confirmed ongoing dialogue with the government. Radio Free Europe has requested the government’s response but has yet to receive one.

Kosova’s commitments to the court date back to a 2014 exchange of letters between then-President Atifete Jahjaga and EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton. They include consulting the EU on legal changes affecting the court’s mandate. The EU expects consultation if parliament resumes discussions. The court has said it was not consulted on the amendments.

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