1991 Kosovan independence referendum

1991 Kosovan independence referendum

26–30 September 1991
Results
Choice Votes % Yes 913,705 99.98% No 164 0.02% Valid votes 913,869 99.90% Invalid or blank votes 933 0.10% Total votes 914,802 100.00% Registered voters/turnout 1,051,357 87.01%

An independence referendum was held in Kosovo, then known as the Socialist Autonomous Province of Kosovo between 26 and 30 September 1991. The Provincial Assembly, which had been dissolved in 1989 by Serbian authorities but whose Albanian members continued to meet underground, declared the Republic of Kosova a sovereign and independent state on 22 September 1991. Over 99% of voters voted in favour of independence, with a turnout of 87%. The referendum was boycotted by Serbs living in the region, who comprised around 10% of the population.

Background

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

Results

Choice		Votes	%
For		913,705	99.98
Against		164	0.02
Total		913,869	100.00
Valid votes		913,869	99.90
Invalid/blank votes		933	0.10
Total votes		914,802	100.00
Registered voters/turnout		1,051,357	87.01
Source: Direct Democracy

Recognition

The only country who recognised the Republic of Kosova was Albania, with a resolution recognizing the country passed in the Parliament of Albania on 21 October 1991.

See also

• 2008 Kosovo declaration of independence
• 2012 North Kosovo referendum