Portland, OR—February 17, 2008—Mercy Corps applauds the resolution of Kosovo's political and legal status. We are confident this resolution will enable Kosovo to move forward with long-term rebuilding and significant economic and social progress. We urge the international community to support this nascent state's efforts to build a peaceful and prosperous future for all of its citizens.

For too long, Kosovo has been locked in a limbo status, contributing to stagnation on many levels: a dearth of investment, soaring rates of unemployment and a faltering sense of hope. Mercy Corps has been in Kosovo since 1993. We have seen firsthand the crippling frustrations of jobless youth in a place where nearly 50% of those between 20 and 24 are unemployed. We have witnessed the frequent power outages, the disappointed faces of people who feel unable to move freely from place to place, a society that remains painfully torn along ethnic lines, and discord that has been fanned by political rhetoric.

While status resolution marks the end of a long, uncertain time, it also heralds even greater challenges. Kosovo's leaders have the formidable task of forging long-term peace and stability, ensuring that all minorities are fully protected, and jumpstarting a slumbering economy. The international community and the people of Kosovo will need to commit their efforts, time, energy and resources to ensure that this new nation successfully meets the significant challenges ahead.

In these days following the declaration of independence, Mercy Corps is monitoring and assessing the situation on the ground. We do not anticipate violence or humanitarian issues, but if any do arise, we are poised to quickly respond in coordination with local authorities, local community leaders and other international actors.

Prime Minister Hashim Thaci has vowed to protect the rights of Serbian Kosovars and other ethnic minorities. His leadership in welcoming all minorities as equal citizens into the new state is essential, and we call upon the international community to support him in this effort. Mercy Corps remains committed to working with the people of Kosovo, the new government, civil society and the international community to realize this vision of a brighter future. We believe there is great promise for positive, lasting change in Kosovo.

MERCY CORPS' WORK IN KOSOVO Mercy Corps has worked in Kosovo since 1993. Before and during the 1999 NATO-led intervention, Mercy Corps supported refugees and displaced families throughout the region.

Since the end of the conflict, Mercy Corps has focused on creating positive, lasting change by boosting economic development and helping citizens participate in local decision-making. With a talented team of more than 55 Kosovans, Mercy Corps has established a thriving microfinance institution, supported farmers and entrepreneurs, improved basic services such as health, water, electricity and infrastructure, and helped communities navigate multi-ethnic needs and governance structures.

ABOUT MERCY CORPS Mercy Corps works amid disasters, conflicts, chronic poverty and instability to unleash the potential of people who can win against nearly impossible odds. Since 1979, Mercy Corps has provided $1.3 billion in assistance to people in 100 nations. Supported by headquarters offices in North America, Europe and Asia, the agency's unified global programs employ 3,400 staff worldwide and reach nearly 14.4 million people in more than 35 countries. For more information, visit www.mercycorps.org.

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