Throughout September, the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) has been conducting research titled “Gender Analysis: Mitigating Climate Change Through Improved Transport.” As part of this study, we observed urban buses in Prishtina to analyze passenger numbers, gender distribution, accessibility for people with disabilities and parents with children, and overall passenger and staff behavior. Additionally, we assessed the condition of road infrastructure in various Prishtina neighborhoods by walking on sidewalks, checking traffic lights, and evaluating accessibility for those with disabilities and families with strollers. 

Furthermore, KWN interviewed Directors/Officials from the Departments of Gender Equality, Budget and Finance, Urban and Spatial Planning, and the Transport Unit in both Prishtina and Dragash municipalities. These interviews focused on gathering information about Gender Equality Plans, Mobility Plans, Annual Budgets, and Medium-Term Budget Frameworks. We also analyzed existing strategies and plans through a gender lens to identify areas for improvement. 

To gain deeper insights, we facilitated four focus group discussions in Dragash, involving men and women from diverse backgrounds such as teachers, municipal employees, healthcare professionals, and students. These discussions centered around challenges and potential solutions related to public transportation and road infrastructure. 

The primary objective of this research is to inform policy development, particularly in the realm of transportation budgeting, and to address climate change issues through a gendered lens. The findings of this research will be published by the end of 2024.  

This research is being conducted as part of a regional effort undertaken by the Gender Budget Watchdog Network, of which the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) is a member, with the support of the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA). 

The research is part of a regional initiative led by the Gender Budget Watchdog Network, to which KWN belongs, with support from the Austrian Development Agency and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency.