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8
1
UNCLASSIFIED
RECORD ID: 9805651
NSC/RMO PROFILE
RECEIVED: 10 AUG 98 13
TO: BANG-JENSEN, NINA
FROM: PRESIDENT
DOC DATE: 12 NOV 98
SOURCE REF:
KEYWORDS: KOSOVO
HUMAN RIGHTS
PRESIDENTIAL CORRESPONDENCE
PERSONS:
SUBJECT: LTR ON HUMANITARIAN SITUATION IN KOSOVO FM NINA BANG-JENSEN &
COALITION FOR INTL JUSTICE
ACTION: FOR DISPATCH
DUE DATE: 09 OCT 98 STATUS: C
STAFF OFFICER: HURLEY
LOGREF:
FILES: WH
NSCP:
CODES:
DOCUMENT DISTRIBUTION
FOR ACTION
FOR CONCURRENCE
FOR INFO
WH STRIPPING DESK
HURLEY
NSC CHRON
COMMENTS:
DISPATCHED BY
DP
DATE 11/13
BY HAND W/ATTCH
OPENED BY: NSTSM
CLOSED BY: NSGP
DOC 4 OF 4
UNCLASSIFIED
UNCLASSIFIED
RECORD ID: 9805651
ACTION DATA SUMMARY REPORT
DOC ACTION OFFICER
CAO ASSIGNED ACTION REQUIRED
001 SCHWARTZ
Z 98081014 PREPARE MEMO FOR BERGER
001
Z 98092818 ACTION TRANSFERRED
001 SCHULTE
Z 98092818 PREPARE MEMO FOR BERGER
002 BERGER
Z 98102718 FWD TO PRESIDENT FOR SIGNATURE
002 SCHULTE
Z 98102809 FOR REDO
002 BERGER
Z 98110208 FWD TO PRESIDENT FOR SIGNATURE
002 HURLEY
Z 98110515 FOR REDO
002 BERGER
Z 98110515 FWD TO PRESIDENT FOR SIGNATURE
002 HURLEY
Z 98110515 FOR REDO
003 PRESIDENT
Z 98110921 FOR SIGNATURE
004
X 98111307 PRESIDENT SGD LTR
004 WH STRIPPING DESK
X 98111307 FOR DISPATCH
DISPATCH DATA SUMMARY REPORT
DOC DATE
DISPATCH FOR ACTION
DISPATCH FOR INFO
003 981109
VICE PRESIDENT
003 981109
WH CHIEF OF STAFF
004 981112 BANG-JENSEN, NINA
004 981112 WH STRIPPING DESK
UNCLASSIFIED
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
TO: trey Schulte
Need to update in same
fushion yesterday. us letters returned
Thx-
EC
National Security Council
The White House
5651
PROOFED BY:
LOG #
URGENT NOT PROOFED:
SYSTEM PRS NSC INT ARS
BYPASSED WW DESK:
DOCLOG SUD A/O
SEQUENCE TO
INITIAL/DATE
DISPOSITION
Cosgriff
/
Kgc "/12
Rice
Davies
Kerrick
Steinberg
Berger
Situation Room
2
West Wing Desk
SWD SWD11/12 11/12
A
Records Mgt.
A
A = Action
I = Information
D = Dispatch
R = Retain
N = No Further Action
CC:
Date Novemb, 12, 1998
COMMENTS:
198 NOV 12 pm 600
Exec Sec Office has diskette
National Security Council
The White House
PROOFED BY:
LOG 5651-Redo
#
URGENT NOT PROOFED:
SYSTEM PRS NSC INT ARS
BYPASSED ww DESK:
DOCLOG TTC
A/O
2
SEQUENCE TO
Cosgriff
2
INITIAL/DATE Kg DISPOSITION
Rice
Davies
Kerrick
3
c
Steinberg
B copy
Berger
you
Situation Room
West Wing Desk
4
SUD11/9 D
Records Mgt.
Brown 1
N Colita = No Further Action
A = Action
I = Information
D = Dispatch
R = Retain
CC:
"SBNOV
of
COMMENTS: POTUS reply Mina Barg-Jasa
me Kosoro
Exec Sec Office has diskette yes
National Security Council
The White House
5651 REDO
PROOFED BY:
LOG #
URGENT NOT PROOFED:
SYSTEM PRS NSC INT ARS
BYPASSED WW DESK:
DOCLOG SMD A/O
SEQUENCE TO
INITIAL/DATE
DISPOSITION
Cosgriff
Rice
1
"/5
02:4
Davies
2
Kerrick
Steinberg
Berger
Situation Room
West Wing Desk
Records Mgt.
A = Action
I = Information
D = Dispatch
R = Retain
N = No Further Action
CC:
COMMENTS:
Reply to niner Bang Jensa
843
Exec Sec Office has diskette yes
National Security Council
The White House
5651 REDO
PROOFED BY:
LOG #
URGENT NOT PROOFED:
SYSTEM PRS NSC INT ARS
BYPASSED WW DESK:
DOCLOG
B
A/O
d
SEQUENCE TO
INITIAL/DATE
DISPOSITION
Cosgriff
Rice
Davies
1
810/31
Kerrick
2
Steinberg
Berger
Situation Room
West Wing Desk
Records Mgt.
A = Action
I = Information
D = Dispatch
R = Retain
N = No Further Action
CC:
COMMENTS: Potus Reply to Nina Bans-Jenser
and Coalition for Inlil Justice
On Kosovo
198.007.50m 7400
Exec Sec Office has diskette yes
National Security Council
The White House
PROOFED BY:
LOG #
5651
URGENT NOT PROOFED:
SYSTEM PRS NSC INT ARS
BYPASSED WW DESK:
DOCLOG TTC A/O
lyp
SEQUENCE TO
INITIAL/DATE
DISPOSITION
Cosgriff
1
Rice
Davies
Kerrick
Steinberg
Berger
Situation Room
West Wing Desk
2 TTC 10/28 P Schulte
Records Mgt.
Schulte 3
A
A = Action
I = Information
D = Dispatch
R = Retain
N = No Further Action
CC:
COMMENTS:
Potus Reply letter to
Nine Bang-Jansen
Kosovo- Humanitarian Crisis
Exec Sec Office has diskette up
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
November 12, 1998
Dear Ms. Bang-Jensen:
Thank you for your letter on behalf of the Coalition for
International Justice about the humanitarian crisis in
Kosovo. I appreciate your description of the important work
international relief agencies are doing to provide needed
assistance. Just as you suggested, we've worked very hard to
ensure that humanitarian organizations can safely carry out
their vital work without interference.
Just a few weeks ago, tens of thousands of Kosovars were
facing the onset of winter without shelter and the basic
necessities of life. I am heartened that our close
cooperation with NATO allies has brought about calmer
conditions on the ground and facilitated international relief
operations to the people of Kosovo.
From the beginning, one of our principal objectives has been
to prevent a humanitarian crisis from becoming a catastrophe,
and I believe we have made real progress. The credible
threat of NATO force has led to a cease-fire and a
substantial reduction of Serb security forces in Kosovo.
I do not underestimate the difficulties that lie ahead, but I
believe we are headed in the right direction. We have ended
the cycle of violence, and I am hopeful that we are getting
closer to a political solution to the conflict. As we move
forward, the multitude of humanitarian organizations in the
Coalition for International Justice will continue to play a
critical role in alleviating the pain and suffering in
Kosovo.
2
Again, thank you for writing on this very important issue. I
appreciate your untiring efforts to provide vital
humanitarian assistance to the long-suffering people of
Kosovo.
Sincerely,
Bin Clinton
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009
5651
THE WHITE HOUSE
'98 NOV 9 pm9:11
WASHINGTON
signed 11-12-98
ACTION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
SAMUEL BERGER
K
in
SUBJECT:
Letter on Humanitarian Situation in Kosovo from
Nina Bang-Jensen and the Coalition for
International Justice
Purpose
Respond to a letter from Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen and the Coalition
for International Justice, an organization representing relief
agencies including Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch,
and Doctors Without Borders among others, who wrote to express
concern about the escalating humanitarian crisis in Kosovo.
Background
Your reply details the NATO pressure on Milosevic that has
resulted in improved access and freedom of movement for
humanitarian organizations and relief workers and increased
deliveries of food and other necessities to Kosovar Albanians.
RECOMMENDATION
That you sign the letter to Ms. Bang-Jensen at Tab A.
Attachments
Tab A Letter to Ms. Bang-Jensen
Tab B Incoming correspondence
CC: Vice President
Chief of Staff
08/06/98 THU 11:35 FAX
ABA CEELI
5
002
Protocol II, Article 13 of the Geneva Conventions
Protection of the civilian population- 1. The civilian population and individual civilians shall
enjoy general protection against the dangers arising from military operations. To give effect to
this protection, the following rules shall be observed in all circumstances. 2. The civilian
population as such, as well as individual civilians, shall not be the object of attack. Acts or
threats of violence the primary purpose of which is to spread terror among the civilian
population are prohibited. 3. Civilians shall enjoy the protection afforded by this part, unless
and for such time as they take a direct part in hostilities.
Protocol II, Article 14 of the Geneva Conventions
Protection of objects indispensable to the survival of the civilian population-Starvation of
civilians as a method of combat is prohibited. It is therefore prohibited to attack, destroy,
remove or render useless for that purpose, objects indispensable to the survival of the civilian
population such as food-stuffs, agricultural areas for the production of food-stuffs, crops,
livestock, drinking water installations and supplies and irrigation works.
Honorable William Jefferson Clinton
President of the United States
The White House
Washington, D.C.
Dear Mr. President:
We, the undersigned humanitarian and human rights organizations, urgently appeal to you
concerning the dramatically escalating humanitarian crisis in Kosovo. The situation is dire and
has deteriorated severely in recent days. In direct violation of Protocol II, Article 13 of the
Geneva Conventions, unarmed civilians are systematically targeted through a campaign of
indiscriminate attacks and atrocities, as they were just three short years ago in Bosnia. Our local
partners in Kosovo and the region are pleading desperately for access, protection, and resources
to meet the basic needs of the besieged, displaced and attacked civilian population, already close
to one million people. Thousands of civilians, overwhelmingly women, children, and elderly,
are being forcibly expelled from their villages and towns every day. Brutal attacks on civilians
continue to escalate.
As large numbers of newly homeless people crowd in with already poor Kosovo Albanian
families, winter food supplies are being consumed. A food crisis looms, particularly as cold
weather approaches in the foothills and mountains where tens of thousands of civilians have been
forced to flee. Unless urgent action is taken, an enormous crisis— requiring a massive and
expensive humanitarian responsc-is inevitable. Current relief efforts and resources are
woefully inadequate.
1
08/06/98 THU 11:36 FAX
ABA CEELI
003
President Clinton
Page Two
Our representatives and partners on the ground report that hundreds of thousands of people have
now been forced out of their homes and are wandering, terrorized, looking for any shelter, food,
and medical care they can find. Humanitarian organizations on the ground cannot reach many of
the people who need help because of blockades, shelling and harassment. Serbian authorities
have intermittently seized or diverted humanitarian relief supplies away from victims.
Local humanitarian organizations attempting to provide emergency assistance to the homeless,
wounded and hungry are under attack. We have received credible reports that many local
humanitarian workers and medical personnel have recently been arrested and interrogated. Other
humanitarian workers have been killed, wounded, or gone missing after abductions by Serbian
authorities. Serbian authorities have plundered food warehouses, most recently seizing more than
12 metric tons of grain from the Mother Theresa Society's facility in Vuciturn/Vushtri.
In addition to the killing and abduction of Kosovo's civilians, which has been widely reported,
we are gravely concerned by the increasingly systematic use of food and access to rudimentary
medical care as tools of war. Serbian paramilitaries and soldiers are burning food stock and crops
and killing livestock. Snipers regularly fire on civilians attempting to harvest their wheat crops.
Belgrade has imposed strict food controls on Kosovo, not only stopping the transport of goods to
many Kosovo Albanian communities altogether, but allowing only state stores, run by ethnic
Serbs, to buy and sell food staples. Using food as a weapon in internal armed conflict is
explicitly prohibited under Protocol II, Article 14 of the Geneva Conventions.
With your leadership, the international community can and must ensure that the civilian victims
of Kosovo find protection within Kosovo, and obtain secure access to food, shelter, and basic
medical care. These desperate people are on the run and have nowhere safe to go, as thousand of
homes have already been shelled and burned. International and local humanitarian groups-such
as the Mother Theresa organization-must be able to distribute food and medical supplies to the
hundreds of thousands of unarmed people who need their help. Local health professionals, aid
workers, and human rights monitors, who are particularly at risk of arrest and abuse, need
protection and access to the regions where internally displaced populations are moving.
2
08/06/98 THU 11:36 FAX
ABA CEELI
004
President Clinton
Page Three
We urge you to do everything in your power to stop Belgrade's military onslaught against
civilians in Kosovo. The international community cannot wait for a cease-fire or political
solution to the war in Kosovo before taking necessary action to address this immediate
humanitarian disaster. The lives of the mass of unarmed, defenseless people are at stake in
Kosovo, just as they were in alarmingly similar circumstances in Bosnia.
Respectfully,
Amnesty International, USA
Lawyers Committee for Human Rights
Balkan Action Council
Medicins Sans Frontieres USA /
Bosnian Action Coalition
Doctors Without Borders, USA
Codman Square Health Center
Mercy Corps
Coalition for International Justice
Network Bosnia
Domovina Net
Nonviolence International
Freedom House
Open Society Institute
Friends of Bosnia
Physicians for Human Rights
The Foundation for a Civil Society
Public International Law and Policy Group
Human Rights Watch
Refugees International
Hunt Alternatives
Union of American Hebrew Congregations
InterAction
U.S. Committee for Refugees
International Crisis Group
Women's Commission for Refugee Women
International Human Rights Law Group
and Children
International League for Human Rights
World Vision Relief and Development
International Rescue Committee
Lasiewicz Foundation
cc:
Hillary Clinton
The First Lady
William S. Cohen
The White House
Secretary of Defense
Washington, DC
Department of Defense
Washington, D.C.
Madeleine Albright
Secretary of State
Samuel Berger
Department of State
Assistant to the President for National
Washington, D.C.
Security Affairs
National Security Council
Washington, D.C.
3
UNCLASSIFIED
RECORD ID: 9805651
NSC/RMO PROFILE
RECEIVED: 10 AUG 98 13
TO: PRESIDENT
FROM: BANG-JENSEN, NINA
DOC DATE: 06 AUG 98
SOURCE REF:
KEYWORDS: KOSOVO
HUMAN RIGHTS
PRESIDENTIAL CORRESPONDENCE
PERSONS:
SUBJECT: LTR FM COALITION FOR INTL JUSTICE RE HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS IN
KOSOVO
ACTION: PREPARE MEMO FOR BERGER
DUE DATE: 21 AUG 98 STATUS: S
STAFF OFFICER: SCHWARTZ
LOGREF:
FILES: WH
NSCP:
CODES:
DOCUMENT DISTRIBUTION
FOR ACTION
FOR CONCURRENCE
FOR INFO
SCHWARTZ
SCHULTE
BAKER
RAGAN
COMMENTS:
DISPATCHED BY
DATE
BY HAND W/ATTCH
OPENED BY: NSTSM
CLOSED BY:
DOC 1 OF 1
UNCLASSIFIED
08/06/98 THU 11:35 FAX
ABA CEELI
5651 001
DORA- PLEASE
COALITION FOR
put INTO system, pouse. for
INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE
to
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20005-1009
Copies ESS
Rashelte
FAX
Date: 8/6/98
# of pgs. including cover:
G.
TO:
Eric Schwartz
FROM:
Fax:
456-9141
COALITION FOR
INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE
Phone:
John Heffernan: (202) 662-1595
Nina Bang-Jensen: (202) 662-1684
\
Fax: (202) 662-1597
E-mail - [email protected]
cc:
REMARKS:
Enc-
Would you please see That
Mr. Benger sees This as soon
as possible? Thanks very much.
Nina Bang-Jana
Schulle ?
or ast
10
PRESIDENTIAL/NSA CORRESPONDENCE
IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED
New
and
have
Schulte
Mile For your .choo
ACTION OFFICER:
LOG NUMBER: 5651
Rafan?
DUE DATE: 21 AUG
DATE STAFFED: 10 ANG
CORRESPONDENCE ADDRESSED TO:
PRESIDENT
NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISOR
FROM: Bank-Jensed
PREPARE A RESPONSE FOR THE PRESIDENT'S OR NATIONAL SECURITY
ADVISOR'S SIGNATURE WITHIN 10 DAYS. IF A LETTER DOES NOT REQUIRE A
RESPONSE, PLEASE RETURN IT TO RECORDS MANAGEMENT (RM 379) WITH
THIS FORM, ANNOTATED ACCORDINGLY.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Ms. Bang-Jensen:
Thank you for your thoughtful letter on behalf of the Coalition
for International Justice about Kosovo. As you point out, only
a few weeks ago, prospects for Kosovars were bleak. Tens of
thousands, driven from their homes by Serb forces, were facing
the onset of winter without shelter and the basic necessities of
life. I am heartened that our close cooperation with NATO
allies and the unity of purpose we achieved has dramatically
changed that situation for the better.
From the beginning, we have had three overriding objectives in
Kosovo. First, to end the violence that threatens the fragile
stability of the Balkans. Second, to prevent a humanitarian
crisis from becoming a catastrophe. And third, to help the
Kosovar people achieve a high degree of self-government.
We have made substantial progress toward each of these
objectives. NATO determination backed up by the credible threat
of force has led to a cease-fire that has held for five weeks.
I am encouraged that substantial numbers of Serb security forces
in Kosovo have withdrawn (more than 4,000 police departed the
province on October 27). Now that the shooting has stopped and
security checkpoints have been dismantled, about 40,000
displaced people have returned to their homes. About 10,000
remain in peril. While this is still too many, the conditions
are being created for all of them to return to their homes. At
present, 40 NGOs are operational in Kosovo, their movement and
access is unimpeded, and more vital supplies are arriving every
day to those in need.
Since the eruption of the conflict in February we have been
aggressively pushing both sides towards a political settlement
and we are pressing even harder now. The current draft
agreement offers the Kosovars a high degree of autonomy, an
indigenous police force, and complete control over education,
health and other institutions that most affect their daily
lives. We are working hard to convince armed insurgent groups
in Kosovo that they, too, must cooperate to bring about a
peaceful settlement.
2
There will be much work ahead to make this settlement last. We
know that Milosevic ended his campaign of hatred only because he
fears NATO. NATO has retained authority and has the forces to
act if he backslides. In order to verify Belgrade's compliance,
NATO has implemented an intrusive air surveillance regime. And
we are rapidly building up a 2,000-person verification mission,
with personnel and funds contributed by OSCE nations, headed by
Bill Walker, an experienced American diplomat.
In support of the Kosovo Verification Mission, NATO is
establishing a force in Macedonia that will be close at hand to
extract verifiers in the event of hostilities. Its very
presence will have a deterrent effect on aggressive Serb
operations in Kosovo. We expect that the bulk of the personnel
for the force will be supplied by our European allies. The
United States will primarily provide administrative personnel
and support for the force's headquarters.
Our longer-term aim, shared by our NATO allies, is a democratic
FRY that aspires to European integration. In this regard, we
continue to support political pluralism and free and independent
media in the FRY. Further efforts in these areas are an
important part of our broader strategy.
I do not underestimate the difficulties that lie ahead, but I
believe we are on the right road. We have ended the cycle of
violence, and I am hopeful that we are getting closer to a
permanent political resolution of the conflict. As we move
forward, the multitude of humanitarian organizations in the
Coalition for International Justice will continue to play a key
role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo. We are
committed to ensuring that their courageous personnel on the
ground are able to carry out their life-saving work without fear
of personal harm. Again, thank you for writing and sharing your
concerns with me on this issue. I appreciate your willingness
to work with my Administration to provide vital aid to the long-
suffering Kosovar people.
Sincerely,
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009
There will be much work ahead to make this settlement last. We
know that Milosevic ended his campaign of hatred only because he
fears NATO. NATO has retained authority and has the forces to
act if he backslides. In order to verify Belgrade's compliance,
NATO has implemented an intrusive air surveillance regime. And
we are rapidly building up a 2,000-person verification mission,
with personnel and funds contributed by OSCE nations, headed by
Bill Walker, an experienced American diplomat.
In support of the Kosovo Verification Mission, NATO is
establishing a force in Macedonia that will be close at hand to
extract verifiers in the event of hostilities. Its very
presence will have a deterrent effect on aggressive Serb
operations in Kosovo. We expect that the bulk of the personnel
for the force will be supplied by our European allies. The
United States will primarily provide administrative personnel
and support for the force's headquarters.
Our longer-term aim, shared by our NATO allies, is a democratic
FRY that aspires to European integration. In this regard, we
continue to support political pluralism and free and independent
media in the FRY. Further efforts in these areas are an
important part of our broader strategy.
I do not underestimate the difficulties that lie ahead, but I
believe we are on the right road. We have ended the cycle of
violence, and I am hopeful that we are getting closer to a
permanent political resolution of the conflict. As we move
forward, the multitude of humanitarian organizations in the
Coalition for International Justice will continue to play a key
role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo. We are
committed to ensuring that their courageous personnel on the
ground are able to carry out their life-saving work without fear
of personal harm. Again, thank you for writing and sharing your
concerns with me on this serious issue. I appreciate your
willingness to work with my Administration to provide vital aid
to the long-suffering Kosovar people.
Sincerely,
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Ms. Bang-Jensen:
Thank you for your thoughtful letter on behalf of the Coalition
for International Justice about the humanitarian crisis in
Kosovo. As you point out, the dimension of human suffering
there has been enormous. I appreciate your description of the
important work international relief agencies are doing to
provide needed assistance. Just as you suggested, a key
objective of the international community has been to create the
conditions on the ground that allow humanitarian organizations
to carry out their vital work without interference.
correctly
As you point only a few weeks agg, prospects for Kosovars
were bleak Tens of thousands, driven from their homes by Serb
forces, were facing the onset of winter without shelter and the
basic necessities of life. I am heartened that our close
cooperation with NATO allies and the unity of purpose we
achieved has dramatically changed that situation for the better.
From the beginning, one of our principal objectives has been to
prevent a humanitarian crisis from becoming a catastrophe. We
have made substantial progress toward achieving that goal. NATO
determination backed up by the credible threat of force has led
to a cease-fire that has held since early October followed by a
substantial reduction of Serb security forces in Kosovo. Now
that the shooting has stopped and security checkpoints have been
dismantled, more than 40,000 displaced people have returned to
their homes.
With calmer conditions on the ground, a major international
relief operation involving dozens of NGOs is well underway.
Each day convoys are carrying essential supplies to Kosovars.
By all accounts, since early October, relief agencies have had
freedom of movement throughout the province and unfettered
access to those in need. I am deeply concerned about any Serb
security force interference with or threats to the safety.
international aid workers, The establishment of an
international verification mission with 2,000 personnel will
2
help ensure that aid workers are able to carry out their work
without such interference; and the presence of a NATO force in
Macedonia should deter aggressive Serb operations in Kosovo.
I do not underestimate the difficulties that lie ahead, but I
believe we are on the right road. We have ended the cycle of
violence, and I am hopeful that we are getting closer to a
political resolution of the conflict.
As we move forward, the multitude of humanitarian organizations
in the Coalition for International Justice will continue to play
a key role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo. We
are committed to ensuring that their courageous personnel on the
ground are able to carry out their life-saving work without fear
of personal harm. Again, thank you for writing and sharing your
concerns with me on this serious issue. I appreciate your
willingness to work with my Administration to provide vital aid
to the long-suffering Kosovar people.
Sincerely,
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Ms. Bang-Jensen:
Thank you for your thoughtful letter on behalf of the Coalition
for International Justice about the humanitarian crisis in
Kosovo. As you point out, the dimension of human suffering
there has been enormous. I appreciate your description of the
important work international relief agencies are doing to
provide needed assistance delibriations Just as you usure suggested, a key
objective of the o.w international community has been to create the
conditions on the ground that allow humanitarian organizations can
carry out their vital work without interference.
As you correctly cited, prospects for Kosovars were bleak but a
few weeks ago. Tens of thousands, driven from their homes by
Serb forces, were facing the onset of winter without shelter and
the basic necessities of life. I. am heartened that our close
cooperation with NATO allies and the unity of purpose we
achieved has dramatically changed that situation for the better.
From the beginning, one of our principal objectives has been to
prevent a humanitarian crisis from becoming a catastrophe. We
have made substantial progress toward achieving that goal. NATO
determination backed up by the credible threat of force has led
to a cease-fire that has held since early October followed by a
substantial reduction of Serb security forces in Kosovo. Now
that the shooting has stopped and security checkpoints have been
dismantled, more than 40,000 displaced people have returned to
their homes.
With calmer conditions on the ground, a major international
relief operation involving dozens of NGOs is well underway.
Each day convoys are carrying essential supplies to Kosovars.
By all accounts, (since early October relief agencies have had
freedom of movement throughout the province- unfettered
access to those in need. I am deeply concerned about any Serb
security force interference with international aid workers, or
2
threats to their safety. The establishment of an international
verification mission with 2,000 personnel will help ensure that
aid workers are able to carry out their work ithout such unimpeded
interference; and the presence of a NATO force in Macedonia
should deter aggressive Serb operations in Kosovo.
headed in the right direction.
I do not underestimat the difficulties that lie ahead, but I
believe we are on the right road. We have ended the cycle of
violence, and I am hopeful that we are getting closer to a
political resolution of the conflict.
As we move forward, the multitude of humanitarian organizations
in the Coalition for International Justice will continue to play
a key role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo. We
are committed to ensuring that their courageous personnel on the
ground are able to carry out their life-saving work without fear
of personal harm. Again, thank you for writing and sharing your
concerns with me on this serious issue. I appreciate your untiving
efforts
willingness to work with my Administration to provide vital aid
to the long-suffering Kosovar peopler Kosovo
Sincerely,
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Ms. Bang-Jensen:
Thank you for your thoughtful letter on behalf of the Coalition
for International Justice about the humanitarian crisis in
Kosovo. As you point out, the dimension of human suffering
there has been enermous. I appreciate your description of the
important work international relief agencies are doing to
provide needed assistance. Just as you suggested, a key
objective in our deliberations was to ensure humanitarian
organizations can carry out their vital work without
interference.
Knewars
Just
As you correctly cited, prospects for Kosovars were bleak but a
few weeks ago, Tens of thousands driven from their homes by
Serb forces, were facing the onset of winter without shelter and
the basic necessities of life I am heartened that our close
100
cooperation with NATO allies and the unity of purpose we
achieved has changed that dituation for the better.
the people of Kosovo
From the beginning, one of our principal objectives has been to
prevent a humanitarian crisis from becoming a catastrophe. We
have made substantial progress toward achieving that goal. NATO
determination backed up by the credible threat of force has led
to a cease-fire that has held since early October followed by a
substantial reduction of Serb security forces in Kosovo. Now
that the shooting has stopped and security checkpoints have been
dismantled, more than 40,000 displaced people have returned to
their homes.
With calmer conditions on the ground a major international
relief operation involving dozens of NGOs is well underway.
Each day convoys are carrying essential supplies to Kosovars.
By all accounts relief agencies have had freedom of movement
throughout the province since early October allowing them
unfettered access to those in need. $ am deeply concerned about
any Serb security force interference with international aid
workers, or threats to their safety. The stablishment of an
the
international verification mission will help ensure that aid
2
workers are able to carry out their work unimpeded; and the
presence of a NATO force in Macedonia should deter aggressive
Serb operations in Kosovo.
I do not underestimate the difficulties that lie ahead, but I
believe we are headed in the right direction. We have ended the
cycle of violence, and I am hopeful that we are getting closer
to a political resolution of the conflict.
As we move forward, the multitude of humanitarian organizations
in the Coalition for International Justice will continue to play
a key role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo. We
are committed to ensuring that their courageous personnel on the
ground are able to carry out their life = saving work without fear
of personal harm. H Again, thank you for writing and sharing your to
concerns with me on this serious issue. I appreciate your
untiring efforts to provide vital aid to the long-suffering
people of Kosovo.
Sincerely,
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009
5651
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ACTION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
SAMUEL BERGER
SUBJECT:
Letter on Humanitarian Situation in Kosovo from
Nina Bang-Jensen and the Coalition for
International Justice
Purpose
Respond to a letter from the Coalition for Intornational Justice
expressing concern about the humanitarian crisis in Kosovo.
Background
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen and the Coalition for International
Justice, an organization representing relief agencies including
Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and Doctors Without
Borders among many others, writes wrot to express deep concern about
the escalating humanitarian crisis in Kosovo.
Your reply details the NATO pressure on Milosevic that has
resulted in improved access and freedom of movement for
humanitarian organizations and relief workers and increased
deliveries of food and other necessities to Kosovar Albanians.
RECOMMENDATION
That you sign the letter to Ms. Bang-Jensen at Tab A.
Attachments
Tab A Letter to Ms. Bang-Jensen
Tab B Incoming correspondence
CC: Vice President
Chief of Staff
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
we 'UE. worked very
Dear Ms. Bang-Jensen:
had
Thank you for your letter on behalf of the Coalition for
International Justice about the humanitarian crisis in
Kosovo. I appreciate your description of the important work
international relief agencies are doing to provide needed
assistance. Just as you suggested, a key objective in our
delibe was to ensure humanitarian organizations remain
free
carry out their vital work. without interference.
Just a few weeks ago, tens of thousands of Kosovars were
facing the onset of winter without shelter and the basic
necessities of life. I am heartened that our close
cooperation with NATO allies has ensured alows calmer conditions on
the ground and facilitated international relief operations to
the people of Kosovo.
From the beginning, one of our principal objectives has been
to prevent a humanitarian crisis from becoming a catastrophe I Saline
We have made substantial progress. toward achieving that NATO goal.
NATO determination backed up by the credible threat of force
has led to a cease-fire that has held Since early October
followed by a substantial reduction of Serb security forces
in Kosovo. Now that the sheeting has stopped and security
checkpoints have been dismantled, more than 40,000 displaced
people have returned to their homes.
I do not underestimate the difficulties that lie ahead, but I
believe we are headed in the right direction. We have ended
the cycle of violence, and I am hopeful that we are getting
closer to a political resolution of the conflict. As we move
forward, the multitude of humanitarian organizations in the
Coalition for International Justice will continue to play a
key role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo.
2
very imposel
Again, thank you for writing to me on this serious issue. I
appreciate your untiring efforts to provide vital aid to the
long-suffering people of Kosovo.
hurander anyther
Sincerely,
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009
5651
THE WHITE HOUSE
washington
ACTION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
SAMUEL BERGER
SUBJECT:
Letter on Humanitarian Situation in Kosovo from
Nina Bang-Jensen and the Coalition for
International Justice
Purpose
Respond to a letter from the Coalition for International Justice
expressing concern about the humanitarian crisis in Kosovo.
Background
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen and the Coalition for International
Justice, an organization representing relief agencies including
Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and Doctors Without
Borders among many others, writes to express deep concern about
the escalating humanitarian crisis in Kosovo.
Your reply details the NATO pressure on Milosevic that has
resulted in improved access and freedom of movement for
humanitarian organizations and relief workers and increased
deliveries of food and other necessities to Kosovar Albanians.
RECOMMENDATION
That you sign the letter to Ms. Bang-Jensen at Tab A.
Attachments
Tab A Letter to Ms. Bang-Jensen
Tab B Incoming correspondence
CC: Vice President
Chief of Staff
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Ms. Bang-Jensen:
Thank you for your letter on behalf of the Coalition for
International Justice concerning the humanitarian crisis in
Kosovo.
NATO's willingness to use force in Kosovo compelled Milosevic to
agree to the demands of the international community. In
particular, Milosevic agreed to comply fully with U.N. Security
Council Resolution 1199. The resolution requires that he
maintain a cease-fire; withdraw recently deployed military and
special forces from Kosovo and return the rest to garrison;
provide freedom of access and movement to relief workers to aid
those in need; and accept a specific timetable for completing
negotiations with Kosovar Albanians on their political future.
To ensure compliance, the international community will deploy a
2,000-person verification mission to Kosovo. A strong NATO air
surveillance regime, that has already begun to operate, will
allow us to confirm the withdrawal of Serb forces.
To date we have confirmed some compliance, although not full
compliance, in several key areas. First, the cease-fire has
largely been maintained for almost three weeks, although some
skirmishing between Serb security forces and the UCK continues.
Second, humanitarian agencies have returned to Kosovo and have
enjoyed free movement. Third, Serb police presence is less
obtrusive. But Milosevic has yet to comply fully with the
requirement to withdraw military forces deployed to Kosovo at
the start of the crisis
NATO will remain ready to act to ensure Milosevic's compliance;
its activation order to use force is in effect but on hold until
October 27. If Milosevic fails to make substantial progress by
that date, NATO will be positioned to begin airstrikes to compel
compliance and hurt his capability to further damage the
Kosovars.
2
As your letter compellingly states, a humanitarian crisis exists
in Kosovo. Since the cease-fire, conditions have begun to show
improvement. We estimate that thousands of Kosovars have
returned to their homes. But approximately 35,000 are still
living in the open. NATO allies working with international
humanitarian organizations are helping refugees return and
convoys delivering vital supplies are increasing. The presence
of the verifiers will help ensure the personal safety of relief
workers. There is more to do, but there is reason for optimism
that many thousands of lives will be saved.
Our desired end-state in Kosovo is clear. Our immediate
objective is to achieve full compliance with UN Security Council
resolution 1199. Our mid-term objective is to secure a
political settlement that grants a high degree of autonomy to
the Kosovars, while keeping Kosovo within the FRY. In
particular, the agreement should ensure that the Kosovars have
their own local governing institutions and police. Our longer
term objective is a FRY that is democratic and on the path to
European integration.
The United Nations, the Contact Group, NATO and my
Administration all agree that Milosevic bears primary
responsibility for the current situation. Not only has he
displaced a quarter million of his own citizens, but he has also
suppressed the human rights of all citizens of the FRY and
forced them to bear the burden of the current conflict, of UN
economic sanctions and of isolation from the rest of Europe.
I want to assure you that we are determined to end the tragedy
Milosevic has inflicted on the Kosovar people. As we move
forward, the multitude of humanitarian organizations in the
Coalition for International Justice will continue to play a key
role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo. We are
committed to ensuring that these organizations have freedom of
movement and that their courageous personnel on the ground in
Kosovo are able to carry out their lifesaving work without fear
of personal harm. I appreciate your willingness to work with my
Administration to provide vital aid to the long-suffering
Kosovar people.
Sincerely,
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009
5651
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ACTION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
SAMUEL BERGER
SUBJECT:
Letter on Humanitarian Situation in Kosovo from
Nina Bang-Jensen and the Coalition for
International Justice
Purpose
a
Respond tonletter from the Coalition for International Justice
expressing concern about the humanitarian crisis in Kosovo.
Background
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen and the Coalition for International
Justice, an organization representing relief agencies including
Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and Doctors Without
Borders among many others, write to express deep concern about
the escalating humanitarian crisis in Kosovo.
Your reply details the NATO pressure on Milosevic that has
resulted in improved access and freedom of movement for
humanitarian organizations and relief workers and increased
deliveries of food and other necessities to Kosovar Albanians.
RECOMMENDATION
That you sign the letter to Ms. Eang-Jensen at Tab A.
Attachments
Tab A Letter to Ms. Bang-Jensen
Tab B Incoming correspondence
CC: Vice President
Chief of Staff
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Ms. Bang-Jensen:
Thank you for your letter on behalf of the Coalition for
International Justice concerning the humanitarian crisis in
Kosovo.
NATO's willingness to use force in Kosovo compelled Milosevic to
agree to the demands of the international community. In
particular, Milosevic agreed to comply fully with U.N. Security
Council Resolution 1199. The resolution requires that he
maintain a cease-fire; withdraw recently deployed military and
special forces from Kosovo and return the rest to garrison;
provide freedom of access and movement to relief workers to aid
those in need; and accept a specific timetable for completing
negotiations with Kosovar Albanians on their political future.
To ensure compliance, the international community wil
a
2,000-person verification mission to Kosovo. A stror
r
surveillance regime, which has already begun to opera
allow us to confirm the withdrawal of Serb forces.
To date we have confirmed some compliance, although n
compliance, in several key areas. First, the cease-f
largely been maintained for almost three weeks, altho;
skirmishing between Serb security forces and the UCK
Second, humanitarian agencies have returned to Kosovo and have
enjoyed free movement. Third, Serb police presence is less
obtrusive. But Milosevic has yet to comply fully with the
requirement to withdraw military forces deployed to Kosovo at
the start of the crisis
NATO will remain ready to act to ensure Milosevic's compliance;
its activation order to use force is in effect but on hold until
October 27. If Milosevic fails to make substantial progress by
that date, NATO will be positioned to begin airstrikes to compel
compliance and hurt his capability to further damage the
Kosovars.
2
As your letter compellingly states, a humanitarian crisis exists
in Kosovo. Since the cease-fire; conditions have begun to show
improvement. We estimate that thousands of Kosovars have
returned to their homes. But approximately 35,000 are still
living in the open. NATO allies working with internatic
humanitarian organizations are helping refugees return a
convoys delivering vital supplies are increasing. The F
of the verifiers will help ensure the personal safety of
but Here
workers. There is more to do but there is reason for op
)
that many thousands of lives will be saved.
Our desired end-state in Kosovo is clear. Our immediate
objective is to achieve full compliance with UN Security
resolution 1199. Our mid-term objective is to secure a
political settlement that grants a high degree of autono:
the Kosovars, while keeping Kosovo within the FRY. In
particular, the agreement should ensure that the Kosovars have
their own local governing institutions and police. Our lon
term objective is a FRY that is democratic and on the path
European integration.
The United Nations, the Contact Group, NATO and my
Administration all agree that Milosevic bears primary
responsibility for the current situation. Not only has he
displaced a quarter million of his own citizens, but he h;
suppressed the human rights of all citizens of the FRY an
forced them to bear the burden of the current conflict, O
economic sanctions and of isolation from the rest of Euro
I want to assure you that we are determined to end the tragedy
Milosevic has inflicted on the Kosovar people. As we move
forward, the multitude of humanizarian organizations in the
Coalition for International Justice will continue to play a key
role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo. We are
committed to ensuring that these organizations have freedom of
movement and that their courageous personnel on the ground in
Kosovo are able to carry out their life-saving work without fear
of personal harm. I appreciate your willingness to work with my
Administration to provide vital aid to the long-suffering
Kosovar people.
onford
Sincerely,
lefessing
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Ms. Bang-Jensen:
Thank you for your letter on behalf of the Coalition for
International Justice concerning the humanitarian crisis in
Kosovo. Only a few weeks ago tens of thousands of Kosovars,
driven from their homes by Serb forces, were facing the onset of
winter without shelter and the basic necessities of life. As a
result of U.S. leadership and the involvement of the
international community, the situation has changed dramatically
and a humanitarian catastrophe has been averted.
NATO determination backed up by the credible threat of the use
of force has compelled Milosevic to implement a cease-fire,
withdraw substantial numbers of security forces from Kosovo
(more than 4,000 police left Kosovo on October 27), allow relief
agencies unimpeded access to resupply Kosovars, and agree to
hold meaningful talks with Kosovars on a political settlement.
The cease-fire has held for thirty days. Now that the shooting
has stopped and Serb security checkpoints have been dismantled,
about 40,000 displaced people already have returned to their
homes. About 10,000 remain in peril. The conditions are being
created for all of them to return to their homes. At present,
40 NGOs are operational in Kosovo and more vital supplies are
arriving every day.
But we are not going to accept Milosevic's word; his agreement
is not compliance. We have made clear to him that we will look
to his deeds not his words. NATO has retained authority and has
the forces to act if he backslides. In order to verify
Belgrade's compliance, NATO has implemented an intrusive air
surveillance regime. Moreover, we are rapidly building up a
2,000-person verification mission, with personnel and funds
contributed by OSCE nations, headed by Bill Walker, an
experienced American diplomat.
In support of the Kosovo Verification Mission, NATO is rapidly
moving to establish a force in Macedonia that will be close at
hand to extract verifiers in the event of hostilities. Its very
presence will have a deterrent effect on aggressive Serb
operations in Kosovo. We expect that the bulk of the personnel
2
Spell
for the force will be supplied by our European allies, with the
US primarily providing headquarters administrative personnel and
support.
staff
Since the eruption of the conflict in February we have been
aggressively pushing both sides towards a political settlement.
We are pressing even harder now. The current draft agreement
offers the Kosovars a high degree of autonomy, an indigenous
police force, and complete control over education, health and
other institutions that most affect their daily lives. We have
made it clear to armed insurgent groups in Kosovo that they must
also cooperate to bring about a peaceful settlement.
The international community's longer-term objective is a FRY
that is democratic and on the path to European integration. In
this regard, we continue to support political pluralism and free
and independent media in the FRY. Further efforts in these
areas are an important part of our broader strategy.
I want to assure you that we are determined to end the tragedy
Milosevic has inflicted on the Kosovar people. As we move
forward, the multitude of humanitarian organizations in the
Coalition for International Justice will continue to play a key
role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo. We are
committed to ensuring that their courageous personnel on the
ground in Kosovo are able to carry out their lifesaving work
without fear of personal harm. I appreciate your willingness to
work with my Administration to provide vital aid to the long-
suffering Kosovar people.
again, thank you for writing
tome on this important
and sharing you concern
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
with me on this serious
Coalition for Internation:
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W
Washington, D.C. 20005-1(
crises. I appreciate
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
LOG 9805651
DISTRIBUTION RECEIPT
DATE 12 NOV 98
SUBJECT: LTR ON HUMANITARIAN SITUATION IN KOSOVO FM NINA BANG-JENSEN &
DOCUMENT CLASSIFICATION: UNCLASSIFIED
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PAGE 01 OF 01 PAGES
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
ID 9805651
REFERRAL
DATE: 13 NOV 98
MEMORANDUM FOR: WH STRIPPING DESK
DOCUMENT DESCRIPTION:
TO: BANG-JENSEN, NINA
SOURCE: PRESIDENT
DATE: 12 NOV 98
SUBJ: LTR ON HUMANITARIAN SITUATION IN KOSOVO FM NINA BANG-JENSEN &
COALITION FOR INTL JUSTICE
REQUIRED ACTION: FOR DISPATCH
DUEDATE: 14 NOV 98
COMMENT:
M.Pute
FOR
JOHN W. FICKLIN
NSC RECORDS MANAGEMENT OFFICE
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Ms. Bang-Jensen:
Thank you for your thoughtful letter on behalf of the Coalition
for International Justice about Kosovo. As you point out, only
a few weeks ago, prospects for Kosovars were bleak. Tens of
thousands, driven from their homes by Serb forces, were facing
the onset of winter without shelter and the basic necessities of
life. I am heartened that our close cooperation with NATO
allies and the unity of purpose we achieved has dramatically
changed that situation for the better.
From the beginning, we have had three overriding objectives in
Kosovo. First, to end the violence that threatens the fragile
stability of the Balkans. Second, to prevent a humanitarian
crisis from becoming a catastrophe. And third, to help the
Kosovar people achieve a high degree of self-government.
We have made substantial progress toward each of these
objectives. NATO determination backed up by the credible threat
of force has led to a cease-fire that has held for five weeks.
I am encouraged that substantial numbers of Serb security forces
in Kosovo have withdrawn (more than 4,000 police departed the
province on October 27). Now that the shooting has stopped and
security checkpoints have been dismantled, about 40,000
displaced people have returned to their homes. About 10,000
remain in peril. While this is still too many, the conditions
are being created for all of them to return to their homes. At
present, 40 NGOs are operational in Kosovo, their movement and
access is unimpeded, and more vital supplies are arriving every
day to those in need.
Since the eruption of the conflict in February we have been
aggressively pushing both sides towards a political settlement
and we are pressing even harder now. The current draft
agreement offers the Kosovars a high degree of autonomy, an
indigenous police force, and complete control over education,
health and other institutions that most affect their daily
lives. We are working hard to convince armed insurgent groups
in Kosovo that they, too, must cooperate to bring about a
peaceful settlement.
2
There will be much work ahead to make this settlement last. We
know that Milosevic ended his campaign of hatred only because he
fears NATO. NATO has retained authority and has the forces to
act if he backslides. In order to verify Belgrade's compliance,
NATO has implemented an intrusive air surveillance regime. And
we are rapidly building up a 2,000-person verification mission,
with personnel and funds contributed by OSCE nations, headed by
Bill Walker, an experienced American diplomat.
In support of the Kosovo Verification Mission, NATO is
establishing a force in Macedonia that will be close at hand to
extract verifiers in the event of hostilities. Its very
presence will have a deterrent effect on aggressive Serb
operations in Kosovo. We expect that the bulk of the personnel
for the force will be supplied by our European allies. The
United States will primarily provide administrative personnel
and support for the force's headquarters.
Our longer-term aim, shared by our NATO allies, is a democratic
FRY that aspires to European integration. In this regard, we
continue to support political pluralism and free and independent
media in the FRY. Further efforts in these areas are an
important part of our broader strategy.
I do not underestimate the difficulties that lie ahead, but I
believe we are on the right road. We have ended the cycle of
violence, and I am hopeful that we are getting closer to a
permanent political resolution of the conflict. As we move
forward, the multitude of humanitarian organizations in the
Coalition for International Justice will continue to play a key
role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo. We are
committed to ensuring that their courageous personnel on the
ground are able to carry out their life-saving work without fear
of personal harm. Again, thank you for writing and sharing your
concerns with me on this issue. I appreciate your willingness
to work with my Administration to provide vital aid to the long-
suffering Kosovar people.
Sincerely,
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009
10
There will be much work ahead to make this settlement last. We
know that Milosevic ended his campaign of hatred only because he
fears NATO. NATO has retained authority and has the forces to
act if he backslides. In order to verify Belgrade's compliance,
NATO has implemented an intrusive air surveillance regime. And
we are rapidly building up a 2,000-person verification mission,
with personnel and funds contributed by OSCE nations, headed by
Bill Walker, an experienced American diplomat.
In support of the Kosovo Verification Mission, NATO is
establishing a force in Macedonia that will be close at hand to
extract verifiers in the event of hostilities. Its very
presence will have a deterrent effect on aggressive Serb
operations in Kosovo. We expect that the bulk of the personnel
for the force will be supplied by our European allies. The
United States will primarily provide administrative personnel
and support for the force's headquarters.
Our longer-term aim, shared by our NATO allies, is a democratic
FRY that aspires to European integration. In this regard, we
continue to support political pluralism and free and independent
media in the FRY. Further efforts in these areas are an
important part of our broader strategy.
I do not underestimate the difficulties that lie ahead, but I
believe we are on the right road. We have ended the cycle of
violence, and I am hopeful that we are getting closer to a
permanent political resolution of the conflict. As we move
forward, the multitude of humanitarian organizations in the
Coalition for International Justice will continue to play a key
role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo. We are
committed to ensuring that their courageous personnel on the
ground are able to carry out their life-saving work without fear
of personal harm. Again, thank you for writing and sharing your
concerns with me on this serious issue. I appreciate your
willingness to work with my Administration to provide vital aid
to the long-suffering Kosovar people.
Sincerely,
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Ms. Bang-Jensen:
Thank you for your thoughtful letter on behalf of the Coalition
for International Justice about the humanitarian crisis in
Kosovo. As you point out, the dimension of human suffering
there has been enormous. I appreciate your description of the
important work international relief agencies are doing to
provide needed assistance. Just as you suggested, a key
objective of the international community has been to create the
conditions on the ground that allow humanitarian organizations
to carry out their vital work without interference.
correctly
As you point/out only a few weeks agg, prospects for Kosovars
were bleak Tens of thousands, driven from their homes by Serb
forces, were facing the onset of winter without shelter and the
basic necessities of life. I am heartened that our close
cooperation with NATO allies and the unity of purpose we
achieved has dramatically changed that situation for the better.
From the beginning, one of our principal objectives has been to
prevent a humanitarian crisis from becoming a catastrophe. We
have made substantial progress toward achieving that goal. NATO
determination backed up by the credible threat of force has led
to a cease-fire that has held since early October followed by a
substantial reduction of Serb security forces in Kosovo. Now
that the shooting has stopped and security checkpoints have been
dismantled, more than 40,000 displaced people have returned to
their homes.
With calmer conditions on the ground, a major international
relief operation involving dozens of NGOs is well underway.
Each day convoys are carrying essential supplies to Kosovars.
By all accounts, since early October, relief agencies have had
freedom of movement throughout the province and unfettered
access to those in need. I am deeply concerned about any Serb
security force interference with or threats to the safety.
international aid workers, The establishment of an
international verification mission with 2,000 personnel will
2
help ensure that aid workers are able to carry out their work
without such interference; and the presence of a NATO force in
Macedonia should deter aggressive Serb operations in Kosovo.
I do not underestimate the difficulties that lie ahead, but I
believe we are on the right road. We have ended the cycle of
violence, and I am hopeful that we are getting closer to a
political resolution of the conflict.
As we move forward, the multitude of humanitarian organizations
in the Coalition for International Justice will continue to play
a key role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo. We
are committed to ensuring that their courageous personnel on the
ground are able to carry out their life-saving work without fear
of personal harm. Again, thank you for writing and sharing your
concerns with me on this serious issue. I appreciate your
willingness to work with my Administration to provide vital aid
to the long-suffering Kosovar people.
Sincerely,
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Ms. Bang-Jensen:
Thank you for your thoughtful letter on behalf of the Coalition
for International Justice about the humanitarian crisis in
Kosovo. As you point out, the dimension of human suffering
there has been enormous. I appreciate your description of the
important work international relief agencies are doing to
provide needed assistance Just às you insure suggested, a key
objective of the o.w international delibrrations community to has been to create the
conditions on the ground that allow humanitarian organizations can
carry out their vital work without interference.
As you correctly cited, prospects for Kosovars were bleak but a
few weeks ago. Tens of thousands, driven from their homes by
Serb forces, were facing the onset of winter without shelter and
the basic necessities of life. I am heartened that our close
cooperation with NATO allies and the unity of purpose we
achieved has dramatically changed that situation for the better.
From the beginning, one of our principal objectives has been to
prevent a humanitarian crisis from becoming a catastrophe. We
have made substantial progress toward achieving that goal. NATO
determination backed up by the credible threat of force has led
to a cease-fire that has held since early October followed by a
substantial reduction of Serb security forces in Kosovo. Now
that the shooting has stopped and security checkpoints have been
dismantled, more than 40,000 displaced people have returned to
their homes.
With calmer conditions on the ground, a major international
relief operation involving dozens of NGOs is well underway.
Each day convoys are carrying essential supplies to Kosovars.
By all accounts, (since early October relief agencies them have had
freedom of movement throughout the province- unfettered
access to those in need. I am deeply concerned about any Serb
security force interference with international aid workers, or
2
threats to their safety. The establishment of an international
verification mission with 2,000 personnel will help ensure that
aid workers are able to carry out their work without such unimpeded
interference; and the presence of a NATO force in Macedonia
should deter aggressive Serb operations in Kosovo.
headed in the right direction.
I do not underestimate the difficulties that lie ahead, but I
believe we are on the right road. We have ended the cycle of
violence, and I am hopeful that we are getting closer to a
political resolution of the conflict.
As we move forward, the multitude of humanitarian organizations
in the Coalition for International Justice will continue to play
a key role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo. We
are committed to ensuring that their courageous personnel on the
ground are able to carry out their life-saving work without fear
of personal harm. Again, thank you for writing and sharing your
concerns with me on this serious issue. I appreciate your untiving
efforts
llingness to work with my Administration to provide vital aid
to the long-suffering Kosovar peopler people Kosovo.
Sincerely,
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009
the
calmer has ensured and of Losovo. led operations
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
to
remain free to
Dear Ms. Bang-Jensen:
Thank you for your thoughtful letter on behalf of the Coalition
for International Justice about the humanitarian crisis in
Kosovo. As you point out, the dimension of human suffering
there has been enormous. I appreciate your description of the
important work international relief agencies are doing to
provide needed assistance. Just as you suggested, a key
objective in our deliberations was to ensure humanitarian
organizations can carry out their vital work without
interference.
of Kosovars
Just
As you correctly cited, prospects for Kosovars were bleak but a
few weeks ago, Tens of thousands driven from their homes by
Serb forces, were facing the onset of winter without shelter and
the basic necessities of life I am heartened that our close
100
cooperation with NATO livel allies and the unity of purpose we
achieved has dramat changed that situation for the better.
the people
From the beginning, one of our principal objectives has been to
prevent a humanitarian crisis from becoming a catastrophe. We
have made substantial progress toward achieving that goal. NATO
determination backed up by the credible threat of force has led
to a cease-fire that has held since early October followed by a
substantial reduction of Serb security forces in Kosovo. Now
that the shooting has stopped and security checkpoints have been
dismantled, more than 40,000 displaced people have returned to
their homes.
With calmer conditions on the ground to major international
relief operation involving dozens of NGOs is well underway.
Each day convoys are carrying essential supplies to Kosovars.
By all accounts relief agencies have had freedom of movement
throughout the province since early October allowing them
unfettered access to those in need. $ am deeply concerned about
any Serb security force interference with international aid
workers, or threats to their safety. The establishment of an
the
international verification mission will help ensure that aid
2
workers are able to carry out their work unimpeded; and the
presence of a NATO force in Macedonia should deter aggressive
Serb operations in Kosovo.
I do not underestimate the difficulties that lie ahead, but I
believe we are headed in the right direction. We have ended the
cycle of violence, and I am hopeful that we are getting closer
to a political resolution of the conflict
As we move forward, the multitude of humanitarian organizations
in the Coalition for International Justice will continue to play
a key role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo. We
are committed to ensuring that their courageous personnel on the
ground are able to carry out their life saving work without fear
of personal lrarm. H Again, thank you for writing and sharing your to
concerns with me on this serious issue. I appreciate your
untiring efforts to provide vital aid to the long-suffering
people of Kosovo.
Sincerely,
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009
5651
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ACTION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
SAMUEL BERGER
SUBJECT:
Letter on Humanitarian Situation in Kosovo from
Nina Bang-Jensen and the Coalition for
International Justice
Purpose
Respond to a letter from the Coalition for International Justice
expressing concern about the humanitarian crisis in Kosovo.
Background
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen and the Coalition for International
Justice, an organization representing relief agencies including
Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and Doctors Without
Borders among many others, wites to express deep concern about
the escalating humanitarian crisis in Kosovo.
Your reply details the NATO pressure on Milosevic that has
resulted in improved access and freedom of movement for
humanitarian organizations and relief workers and increased
deliveries of food and other necessities to Kosovar Albanians.
RECOMMENDATION
That you sign the letter to Ms. Bang-Jensen at Tab A.
Attachments
Tab A Letter to Ms. Bang-Jensen
Tab B Incoming correspondence
CC: Vice President
Chief of Staff
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
we 'UE. worked very
Dear Ms. Bang-Jensen:
had
Thank you for your letter on behalf of the Coalition for
International Justice about the humanitarian crisis in
Kosovo. I appreciate your description of the important work
international relief agencies are doing to provide needed
assistance. Just as you suggested, key objective in our
deliberations was to ensure humanitarian organizations remain
free
carry out their vital work. without interference.
Just a few weeks ago, tens of thousands of Kosovars were
facing the onset of winter without shelter and the basic
necessities of life. I am heartened that our close
cooperation with NATO allies has ensured brown calmer conditions on
the ground and facilitated international relief operations to
the people of Kosovo.
From the beginning, one of our principal objectives has been
to prevent a humanitarian crisis from becoming a catastrophe I below
We have made substantial real progress. toward achieving that NATO goal
NATO determination backed up by the credible threat of force
has led to a cease-fire that has held Since early October
followed by a substantial reduction of Serb security forces
in Kosovo. Now that the shoeting has stopped and security
checkpoints have been dismantled, more than 40,000 displaced
people have returned to their homes.
I do not underestimate the difficulties that lie ahead, but I
believe we are headed in the right direction. We have ended
the cycle of violence, and I am hopeful to that we are getting
closer to a political resolution of the conflict. As we move
forward, the multitude of humanitarian organizations in the
Coalition for International Justice will continue to play a
key role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo.
criticul
2
vey inposed
Again, thank you for writing to me on this serious issue. I
appreciate your untiring efforts to provide vital aid to the
long-suffering people of Kosovo.
hurander anyther
Sincerely,
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009
5651
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ACTION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
SAMUEL BERGER
SUBJECT:
Letter on Humanitarian Situation in Kosovo from
Nina Bang-Jensen and the Coalition for
International Justice
Purpose
Respond to a letter from the Coalition for International Justice
expressing concern about the humanitarian crisis in Kosovo.
Background
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen and the Coalition for International
Justice, an organization representing relief agencies including
Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and Doctors Without
Borders among many others, writes to express deep concern about
the escalating humanitarian crisis in Kosovo.
Your reply details the NATO pressure on Milosevic that has
resulted in improved access and freedom of movement for
humanitarian organizations and relief workers and increased
deliveries of food and other necessities to Kosovar Albanians.
RECOMMENDATION
That you sign the letter to Ms. Bang-Jensen at Tab A.
Attachments
Tab A Letter to Ms. Bang-Jensen
Tab B Incoming correspondence
CC: Vice President
Chief of Staff
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Ms. Bang-Jensen:
Thank you for your letter on behalf of the Coalition for
International Justice concerning the humanitarian crisis in
Kosovo.
NATO's willingness to use force in Kosovo compelled Milosevic to
agree to the demands of the international community. In
particular, Milosevic agreed to comply fully with U.N. Security
Council Resolution 1199. The resolution requires that he
maintain a cease-fire; withdraw recently deployed military and
special forces from Kosovo and return the rest to garrison;
provide freedom of access and movement to relief workers to aid
those in need; and accept a specific timetable for completing
negotiations with Kosovar Albanians on their political future.
To ensure compliance, the international community will deploy a
2,000-person verification mission to Kosovo. A strong NATO air
surveillance regime, that has already begun to operate, will
allow us to confirm the withdrawal of Serb forces.
To date we have confirmed some compliance, although not full
compliance, in several key areas. First, the cease-fire has
largely been maintained for almost three weeks, although some
skirmishing between Serb security forces and the UCK continues.
Second, humanitarian agencies have returned to Kosovo and have
enjoyed free movement. Third, Serb police presence is less
obtrusive. But Milosevic has yet to comply fully with the
requirement to withdraw military forces deployed to Kosovo at
the start of the crisis
NATO will remain ready to act to ensure Milosevic's compliance;
its activation order to use force is in effect but on hold until
October 27. If Milosevic fails to make substantial progress by
that date, NATO will be positioned to begin airstrikes to compel
compliance and hurt his capability to further damage the
Kosovars.
2
As your letter compellingly states, a humanitarian crisis exists
in Kosovo. Since the cease-fire, conditions have begun to show
improvement. We estimate that thousands of Kosovars have
returned to their homes. But approximately 35,000 are still
living in the open. NATO allies working with international
humanitarian organizations are helping refugees return and
convoys delivering vital supplies are increasing. The presence
of the verifiers will help ensure the personal safety of relief
workers. There is more to do, but there is reason for optimism
that many thousands of lives will be saved.
Our desired end-state in Kosovo is clear. Our immediate
objective is to achieve full compliance with UN Security Council
resolution 1199. Our mid-term objective is to secure a
political settlement that grants a high degree of autonomy to
the Kosovars, while keeping Kosovo within the FRY. In
particular, the agreement should ensure that the Kosovars have
their own local governing institutions and police. Our longer
term objective is a FRY that is democratic and on the path to
European integration.
The United Nations, the Contact Group, NATO and my
Administration all agree that Milosevic bears primary
responsibility for the current situation. Not only has he
displaced a quarter million of his own citizens, but he has also
suppressed the human rights of all citizens of the FRY and
forced them to bear the burden of the current conflict, of UN
economic sanctions and of isolation from the rest of Europe.
I want to assure you that we are determined to end the tragedy
Milosevic has inflicted on the Kosovar people. As we move
forward, the multitude of humanitarian organizations in the
Coalition for International Justice will continue to play a key
role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo. We are
committed to ensuring that these organizations have freedom of
movement and that their courageous personnel on the ground in
Kosovo are able to carry out their lifesaving work without fear
of personal harm. I appreciate your willingness to work with my
Administration to provide vital aid to the long-suffering
Kosovar people.
Sincerely,
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009
5651
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
ACTION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
SAMUEL BERGER
SUBJECT:
Letter on Humanitarian Situation in Kosovo from
Nina Bang-Jensen and the Coalition for
International Justice
Purpose
a
Respond tonletter from the Coalition for International Justice
expressing concern about the humanitarian crisis in Kosovo.
Background
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen and the Coalition for International
Justice, an organization representing relief agencies including
Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and Doctors Without
Borders among many others, write to express deep concern about
the escalating humanitarian crisis in Kosovo.
Your reply details the NATO pressure on Milosevic that has
resulted in improved access and freedom of movement for
humanitarian organizations and relief workers and increased
deliveries of food and other necessities to Kosovar Albanians.
RECOMMENDATION
That you sign the letter to Ms. Eang-Jensen at Tab A.
Attachments
Tab A Letter to Ms. Bang-Jensen
Tab B Incoming correspondence
CC: Vice President
Chief of Staff
that has
THE WHITE HOUSE
already
WASHINGTON
Dear Ms. Bang-Jensen:
Thank you for your letter on behalf of the Coalition for
International Justice concerning the humanitarian crisis in
Kosovo.
NATO's willingness to use force in Kosovo compelled Milosevic to
agree to the demands of the international community. In
particular, Milosevic agreed to comply fully with U.N. Security
Council Resolution 1199. The resolution requires that he
maintain a cease-fire; withdraw recently deployed military and
special forces from Kosovo and return the rest to garrison;
provide freedom of access and movement to relief workers to aid
those in need; and accept a specific timetable for completing
negotiations with Kosovar Albanians on their political future.
To ensure compliance, the international community will deploy a
2, 000-person verification mission to Kosovo. A strong NATO air
surveillance regime, which has already begun to operate, will
allow us to confirm the withdrawal of Serb forces.
To date we have confirmed some compliance, although not full
compliance, in several key areas. First, the cease-fire has
largely been maintained for almost three weeks, although some
skirmishing between Serb security forces and the UCK continues.
Second, humanitarian agencies have returned to Kosovo and have
enjoyed free movement. Third, Serb police presence is less
obtrusive. But Milosevic has yet to comply fully with the
requirement to withdraw military forces deployed to Kosovo at
the start of the crisis
NATO will remain ready to act to ensure Milosevic's compliance;
its activation order to use force is in effect but on hold until
October 27. If Milosevic fails to make substantial progress by
that date, NATO will be positioned to begin airstrikes to compel
compliance and hurt his capability to further damage the
Kosovars.
) but Here
-
[
longer (notyplen)
-
I
ontord
lifesaving
—
]
2
As your letter compellingly states, a humanitarian crisis exists
in Kosovo. Since the cease-fire; conditions have begun to show
improvement. We estimate that thousands of Kosovars have
returned to their homes. But approximately 35,000 are still
living in the open. NATO allies working with international
humanitarian organizations are helping refugees return and
convoys delivering vital supplies are increasing. The presence
of the verifiers will help ensure the personal safety of relief
workers. There is more to do but there is reason for optimism
that many thousands of lives will be saved.
Our desired end-state in Kosovo is clear. Our immediate
objective is to achieve full compliance with UN Security Council
resolution 1199. Our mid-term objective is to secure a
political settlement that grants a high degree of autonomy to
the Kosovars, while keeping Kosovo within the FRY. In
particular, the agreement should ensure that the Kosovars have
their own local governing institutions and police. Our longer-
term objective is a FRY that is democratic and on the path to
European integration.
The United Nations, the Contact Group, NATO and my
Administration all agree that Milosevic bears primary
responsibility for the current situation. Not only has he
displaced a quarter million of his own citizens, but he has also
suppressed the human rights of all citizens of the FRY and
forced them to bear the burden of the current conflict, of UN
economic sanctions and of isolation from the rest of Europe.
I want to assure you that we are determined to end the tragedy
Milosevic has inflicted on the Kosovar people. As we move
forward, the multitude of humanizarian organizations in the
Coalition for International Justice will continue to play a key
role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo. We are
committed to ensuring that these organizations have freedom of
movement and that their courageous personnel on the ground in
Kosovo are able to carry out their life-saving work without fear
of personal harm. I appreciate your willingness to work with my
Administration to provide vital aid to the long-suffering
Kosovar people.
Sincerely,
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Dear Ms. Bang-Jensen:
Thank you for your letter on behalf of the Coalition for
International Justice concerning the humanitarian crisis in
Kosovo. Only a few weeks ago tens of thousands of Kosovars,
driven from their homes by Serb forces, were facing the onset of
winter without shelter and the basic necessities of life. As a
result of U.S. leadership and the involvement of the
international community, the situation has changed dramatically
and a humanitarian catastrophe has been averted.
NATO determination backed up by the credible threat of the use
of force has compelled Milosevic to implement a cease-fire,
withdraw substantial numbers of security forces from Kosovo
(more than 4,000 police left Kosovo on October 27), allow relief
agencies unimpeded access to resupply Kosovars, and agree to
hold meaningful talks with Kosovars on a political settlement.
The cease-fire has held for thirty days. Now that the shooting
has stopped and Serb security checkpoints have been dismantled,
about 40,000 displaced people already have returned to their
homes. About 10,000 remain in peril. The conditions are being
created for all of them to return to their homes. At present,
40 NGOs are operational in Kosovo and more vital supplies are
arriving every day.
But we are not going to accept Milosevic's word; his agreement
is not compliance. We have made clear to him that we will look
to his deeds not his words. NATO has retained authority and has
the forces to act if he backslides. In order to verify
Belgrade's compliance, NATO has implemented an intrusive air
surveillance regime. Moreover, we are rapidly building up a
2,000-person verification mission, with personnel and funds
contributed by OSCE nations, headed by Bill Walker, an
experienced American diplomat.
In support of the Kosovo Verification Mission, NATO is rapidly
moving to establish a force in Macedonia that will be close at
hand to extract verifiers in the event of hostilities. Its very
presence will have a deterrent effect on aggressive Serb
operations in Kosovo. We expect that the bulk of the personnel
again, thank you for writing
to me on this important
and sharing you concerns
with me on this serious
crisis I appreciate
{
\
2
Spell
for the force will be supplied by our European allies, with the
US primarily providing headquarters administrative personnel and
support.
staff
Since the eruption of the conflict in February we have been
aggressively pushing both sides towards a political settlement.
We are pressing even harder now. The current draft agreement
offers the Kosovars a high degree of autonomy, an indigenous
police force, and complete control over education, health and
other institutions that most affect their daily lives. We have
made it clear to armed insurgent groups in Kosovo that they must
also cooperate to bring about a peaceful settlement.
The international community's longer-term objective is a FRY
that is democratic and on the path to European integration. In
this regard, we continue to support political pluralism and free
and independent media in the FRY. Further efforts in these
areas are an important part of our broader strategy.
I want to assure you that we are determined to end the tragedy
Milosevic has inflicted on the Kosovar people. As we move
forward, the multitude of humanitarian organizations in the
Coalition for International Justice will continue to play a key
role in alleviating the pain and suffering in Kosovo. We are
committed to ensuring that their courageous personnel on the
ground in Kosovo are able to carry out their lifesaving work
without fear of personal harm. I appreciate your willingness to
work with my Administration to provide vital aid to the long-
suffering Kosovar people.
Sincerely,
Ms. Nina Bang-Jensen
Coalition for International Justice
740 Fifteenth Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20005-1009