Kosovo - 25 Years on

Amidst the breakup of the former Yugoslavia, fighting broke out between Serbian and Kosovar Albanian forces in the late 1990s. Despite diplomatic efforts by the international community, the conflict intensified, which included a campaign by Serbian authorities towards Kosovar Albanian civilians, forcing hundreds of thousands of men, women and children from their homes. Those actions ultimately prompted NATO's military intervention to halt the humanitarian crisis. In June 1999, the Serbian administration agreed to withdraw their forces from Kosovo, and NATO peacekeepers entered the country unopposed.

“I learned things that have stayed with me and have been useful in situations I found myself in later, on deployment in Iraq and Afghanistan… British forces won hearts and minds in Kosovo; the experience of working with civilians made me a better Marine; and I feel we had saved a lot of lives and left Kosovo in a better place. - A former Royal Marine speaking at a remembrance event in June

Around 4,000 British troops were deployed as part of that 50,000 strong multinational force. For the last 25 years, the UK has continued in this vital role, contributing personnel to KFOR to serve alongside others from partner countries. Securing peace comes in many forms, each requiring skill and dedication: duties have included assisting in the return of refugees, removing mines and unexploded munitions, deterring hostilities between opposing parties, supporting civilian institutions and helping maintain law and order.

45 Commando Royal Marines in Kosovo (youtube.com)