An Cosantóir

strategic review | 23 such restraint and significant clashes in November 2011 (Jag- njencia) and June 2012 (Rudare) resulted in the wounding of many soldiers, some seriously. On both these occasions the clashes resulted from the violent reaction of a minority of individuals hiding behind peaceful protestors. (It is impor- tant to point out that vast majority of people in northern Kosovo are as respectable and honourable as anywhere else in Kosovo.) Thankfully, other occasions in which KFOR troops skilfully, proportionately, and patiently. Operations were completed sensitively and conducted without further escalation. Those opposing KFOR's actions, however, displayed no swiftly, successfully and without force seized roadblocks, were not accompanied by similar violent reactions. KFOR troops conducted themselves throughout these people, maintaining as it did, a joint effort to maintain democratic values. The elections passed without problems: no incidents were reported Kosovo-wide. This extremely challenging undertaking, planned and executed at very short notice, demonstrated how international organisations and the institutions in Kosovo can co-operate effectively and to the benefit of the people. In spite of the wide range of military means available to place on May 6th and 20th when the OSCE facilitated ballot- ing for Serbs in Kosovo who wished to partake in the Serbian parliamentary and presidential elections. KFOR was again on post, ready to react to any challenge to their mandate to provide a 'safe and secure environment'. The smooth process in 90 polling stations in 28 locations was a great success for all organisations involved, be it the Kosovo Police, OSCE, EULEX or KFOR. This was a highly noteworthy event for Kosovo and its roadblock-removal operations in a correct, considered and constrained, but also wholly resolute, manner. Another operation of great importance for KFOR took KFOR, military action never has and never will positively influence people's minds. Real progress can only be found where dialogue and peaceful interaction takes place. This will be successfully achieved through the determined use of dialogue and demonstrated understanding. While KFOR re- moved the physical barriers, others must ren- der obsolete the political obstacles to progress. Even consider- ing all the chal- lenges overcome to date and those yet to be faced, Kosovo will one day serve as an example for others of how www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE that for the past 13 years KFOR has remained a constant. Consistently con- tributing to a safe and secure environment throughout Kosovo, KFOR has solidified its reputation as a professional force committed to progress. people coming out of a situation of terrible fear and political deadlock, can join forces in working for the common dreams of prosperity achieved, ambitions realised and values respected. Kosovo has endured many changes over the years but it is fair to say

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