The Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) has achieved another important milestone in protecting the rights of women and children, demonstrating that justice can be achieved even in the face of long and challenging processes. 

The story of A.B. reflects strength, resilience and the importance of proper support. As a survivor of domestic violence, she took a courageous step in 2022 by seeking divorce and child custody. With the support of KWN’s lawyer, the procedure was initiated, aiming to secure a safer life for herself and her children. 

From the moment the case was referred by the organisation National Network to End Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence from North Macedonia, KWN assumed her legal representation, committing not only to protect her rights but also to ensure that her voice was heard at every stage of the process. 

Due to its complexity, the case required inter-institutional and cross-border cooperation between Kosovo and North Macedonia, making the process even more sensitive and challenging, but not impossible. 

“This case once again confirms that when institutions, civil society organisations and the justice system work together, real and meaningful change in the lives of women and children who have survived violence is possible. The courage of A.B. to seek protection and justice, as well as the professional and dedicated support provided by the Kosovo Women’s Network, clearly demonstrate how crucial it is that survivors are not left alone during long and often exhausting legal processes”, stated the Executive Director of the National Network to End Violence against Women and Domestic Violence. “As the National Network, we remain firmly committed to regional cooperation and to ensuring timely, high-quality and survivor-centred support for every woman facing gender-based violence. This decision is not only a legal victory – it is a step towards a safer, more dignified and freer life for survivors and their children”, she added.

Beyond legal representation, KWN continuously monitored court hearings to ensure that all procedures were conducted fairly, transparently, and with sensitivity toward the survivor. After years of proceedings, the Court issued its decision, dissolving the marriage in accordance with the claims presented. 

This decision marks more than a legal outcome; it represents a step toward a safer and more dignified life for A.B. and her children. It also clearly demonstrates that professional support, persistence and dedication can make a real difference in the lives of survivors of gender-based violence. 

Since 2021, KWN has supported 142 cases through counseling and legal representation for survivors of gender-based violence and has monitored 386 court proceedings. 

KWN remains committed to standing by every woman in need of support, offering free legal aid and counseling at: +383 48 105 800. 

This initiative is supported by the International Austrian Partnership. 

A.B. are anonymised initials used to protect the confidentiality of the case.