Between 2012 and 2018 around 400 Kosovo* citizens have participated as foreign fighters in the Middle East conflicts, most predominantly in Syria. Although the number of outgoing foreign fighters from 1Kosovo has reduced, the governing structures continue to face the problem pertaining to returnees, which include: (i) those that are serving sentences in prison; (ii) those soon to complete their sentences;and (iii) possible returnees. While most of the 130 Kosovo citizens that have already returned comprise combatants, the majority of those remaining in conflict zones with the possibility of return are non-2combatants, mainly women and children. The above mentioned aspects continue to press various policy making circles in Kosovo as they are often perceived through the lenses of threats and national security. However, among the three above mentioned aspects, of most concern are risks associated with those who may possibly return, and evidently there is little awareness among policy makers, and most critically, the community, on how to handle the possible consequences.

(*This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSC 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo Declaration of Independence.)

*