Reconstruction of the railway system in Kosovo

The 1999 conflict in Kosovo left the rail system extensively damaged and disorganised. It was strategically vital for movement of military supplies, essential freight and humanitarian aid so NATO forces took control and set about repairing the track and systems. But just as important in peacekeeping terms was the introduction of multi-ethnic passenger services, particularly those that served minority towns and villages. This paper reports on the intricate and sensitive year-long operation to transfer the railway back to civilian operation and to ensure it offered equitable treatment to all ethnic groups in a territory rife with ethnic hatred.