Sentences below the legal minimum in fatal and serious workplace injury cases
An analysis of cases processed in Kosovo courts shows that sentences in workplace fatalities and serious-injury cases are often below the legal minimum.
PRISHTINA, April 23, 2026 — A media investigation into Kosovo court rulings has revealed that in cases of workplace fatalities and serious injuries, sentences imposed are often below the legal minimum. Data collected from basic prosecution reports shows a worrying trend of leniency despite the gravity of the offences.
The construction sector remains among the most dangerous in Kosovo, with fatal accidents reported every year, mainly due to a lack of protective equipment, weak supervision and pressure to meet deadlines. The Labour Inspectorate has repeatedly pointed to a shortage of resources to inspect all active sites.
Judicial system under criticism
Lawyers specialising in labour law note that judges frequently use “mitigating circumstances” provisions to lower sentences, even in cases of obvious negligence. Victims’ families typically receive no adequate compensation, while companies continue operating without serious administrative consequences.
The non-profit workers’-rights organisation “Solidariteti” has published a list of documented cases in which suspended sentences or fines were handed down for fatalities on construction sites. According to the group, this pattern severely undermines prevention of future accidents.
A criminal-justice expert argued that “when the judicial system fails to seriously punish negligence that leads to death, the wrong signal is sent — that a worker life has a low price,” calling for reforms to sentencing guidelines.
The Kosovo Judicial Council has announced a review of judicial practice in this area and the issuance of new guidelines for harmonisation. Experts argue, however, that without amendments to the criminal code and stronger prosecutorial capacity to present solid evidence, changes will be superficial.
Victims’ families have publicly asked for free legal aid and a specialised workplace-safety ombudsperson. The issue is gaining political attention and is expected to be discussed in parliamentary justice committees in the coming weeks.
Source: Koha.