1991 Kosovan independence referendum

An independence referendum was held in Kosovo, then known as the Autonomous Province of Kosovo and Metohija between 26 and 30 September 1991. The dissolved Provincial Assembly had declared the Republic of Kosova a sovereign and independent state on 22 September 1991.[1] Over 99% of voters voted in favour of independence, with a turnout of 87%.[2] The referendum was boycotted by Serbs living in the region, who comprised around 10% of the population.[2]

Background

In order to pass, the referendum required a turnout of at least 66.7% and at least half of those voting in favour.[3]

Results

Choice	Votes	%
For	913,705	99.98
Against	164	0.02
Invalid/blank votes	933	–
Total	914,802	100
Registered voters/turnout	1,051,357	87.01
Source: Direct Democracy

Aftermath

The only United Nations member who recognised the Republic of Kosova was Albania, with a resolution recognising the country passed in the Parliament of Albania on 21 October.[4]

See also

• 2008 Kosovo declaration of independence
• 2012 North Kosovo referendum

References

1. Jure Vidmar International Legal Responses to Kosovo’s Declaration of Independence Vanderbilt Journal of Transitional Law, Vol 42, p789
2. Kosovo (Yugoslavia), 30 September 1991: Independence Direct Democracy (in German)
3. Report Archived 2012-03-06 at the Wayback Machine Albanian.com
4. Official text of recognition Archived 2012-04-20 at the Wayback Machine Republic of Albania Council of Ministers