History
The United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo, UNMIK, was established on 10 June 1999 by Security Council Resolution 1244, after the conflict in Kosovo, to address the humanitarian crisis, oversee the return of refugees, and administer the territory while building institutions of self-government. It was one of the most far-reaching missions the United Nations had undertaken, effectively governing a territory in transition.
Australia contributed police to the international presence in Kosovo, continuing its tradition of civilian police peacekeeping. The medal is awarded for six months' consecutive service, and there is no bar. As a foreign award it takes its place in the Australian Order of Wearing among the United Nations medals.
Design & ribbon
The medal
The medal follows the standard United Nations design: a circular bronze medallion 35 millimetres in diameter, the obverse bearing the emblem of the United Nations, a world map seen from the north pole within a wreath of olive branches, surmounted by the letters UN. The reverse carries the words IN THE SERVICE OF PEACE in relief. United Nations medals are issued unnamed, and the mission is identified by the colours of the ribbon.
The ribbon
Light UN blue, dark blue and white bands.
The ribbon has two outer bands of light United Nations blue for the presence of the United Nations, an inner band of dark blue for the international security presence, and two bands of white for the objective of peace for all the people of Kosovo.
Clasps
United Nations Number 1
A silver numeral worn on the ribbon of the medal. United Nations numerals record the number of qualifying periods of service completed with the mission.
United Nations Number 2
A silver numeral recording a second qualifying period of service with the mission.
United Nations Number 3
A silver numeral recording a third qualifying period of service with the mission.
United Nations Number 4
A silver numeral recording a fourth qualifying period of service with the mission.
Eligibility
The medal is awarded for service with the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo.
- Six months' consecutive service from 1 June 1999 qualifies; Australia contributed police to the international presence;
- There is no bar to the medal; a numeral marks a further tour of the same mission;
- As a foreign award it takes its place in the Australian Order of Wearing among the United Nations medals.
Order of wear
United Nations medals are awarded by the United Nations and accepted and worn by Australians who served the mission. In the Australian Order of Wearing they are worn after Australian honours and campaign awards, among the foreign awards, in the sequence set for United Nations service, which generally follows the dates of the missions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the UN Kosovo Medal awarded for?
Service with the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo, UNMIK, established in 1999 to administer the territory and build institutions of self-government after the conflict.
What do the ribbon colours mean?
Light United Nations blue for the United Nations presence, dark blue for the international security presence, and white for the objective of peace for all the people of Kosovo.
What was Australia's role?
Australia contributed police to the international presence in Kosovo, continuing its tradition of civilian police peacekeeping.
What is the qualifying period?
Six months' consecutive service from June 1999.
Is there a bar with this medal?
No; the medal has no bar, though a numeral marks a further tour.
Is it named to the recipient?
No; United Nations medals are issued unnamed.