Upon the end of the war Kosovo entered a difficult period of transition in which the economic and political systems gradually were reconstructed to adapt to a completely new environment. This period of transition was additionally burdened by the complex political, social and economic situation affecting the functions of all sectors. In this respect, forestry was no exception. Uncontrolled and unsustainable forest management practices have resulted in stagnation and destruction of forest resources. The political and economical changes aligned with coming European integration processes, address priorities and focus toward the multifunctional usage of forests and their management, integrating much wider aspects where protection of the environment and biodiversity are given high priority. At the same time Kosovo is in a process of signing many international agreements and conventions on forests and environmental protection, which will have influence on the forestry sector. The new economic environment and conditions in the forestry sector emphasize the needs for creating effective systems for multipurpose management of the forest resources, and development of a forest industry in harmony with the forest resource base. In response to this need the Government of Kosovo launched a process of formulating a National Forest Policy and Strategy Plan in May 2008. The process has been based on recognized principles for policy development, inputs from national and international experts as well as from all relevant stakeholder groups. Suggested policies and strategies are consistent with existing legislation on Forestry and set the stage for all major decisions concerning the sector for the next 10 years. The results of this process are presented by the team of experts in this document.

Type of Case
Printed publication (book, sourcebook, journal article…)

Publisher
Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Development, FAO & SIDA

Region
Europe

Biome
Temperate

Forest Type
All forest types (natural and planted)

Primary Designated Function
All