Remembering Kosovo: 25 years on
This year, we remember the 25th anniversary since the end of the Kosovo War, which saw the deployment of the NATO-led international peacekeeping force – KFOR. We will honour the service and sacrifices made by those who served with KFOR, which coincides with this being the 75th year since NATO was established.
We are marking the anniversary with a Service of Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum, Staffordshire, on 23 June 2024.
We look forward to welcoming all Armed Forces personnel who served with NATO’s KFOR mission – and/or their families, to join us for the service. To register to attend, please complete the registration form below.
Registration closes on 20 May 2024.
About the Kosovo War and KFOR
2024 marks the 25th anniversary of the end of the war in Kosovo and the deployment of the NATO-led international peacekeeping force, KFOR. The year also marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of NATO.
Fighting broke out between Serbian and Kosovo Albanian forces, amidst the breakup of the former Yugoslavia. A campaign of ethnic cleansing was pursued by President Slobodan Milosevic, prompting NATO's intervention. Failed diplomatic avenues were followed by military options, including NATO airstrikes to halt the humanitarian catastrophe that was unfolding. As a result, the Serbian authorities agreed to a withdrawal from Kosovo and for NATO peacekeeping troops to enter unopposed in June 1999.
Around 4,000 British troops were initially deployed as part of a 50,000 strong multinational force to establish and maintain a secure environment and promote peace and stability.
The UK has been a key contributor to KFOR for 25 years, and detachments of British personnel continue to serve alongside those from nearly 30 countries. They have been involved with helping with the return of refugees, reconstruction and removal of mines, medical assistance, security and public order, border patrols, weapons destruction, and support for civilian institutions.
While the security situation has improved there occur periods of tension requiring the deployment of additional British troops.
If you have any questions, please contact the Remembrance Events Team at remembranceevents@britishlegion.org.uk