KWN Launches New Mechanisms for Citizens to Voice Concerns to Politicians

Through the “Voters’ Voice” project, launched on 16 September, voters contacted KWN to make complaints and suggestions about politicians or policies at the municipal or national level. Citizens could call anonymously a toll-free number every working day from 9:00 to 17:00, send an email or attend public meetings. The project received support from the British Embassy and the Post and Telecommunications of Kosova (PTK).

The Voters’ Voice initiative enabled citizens to make their priorities known to elected officials. When coupled with advocacy, the initiative forced politicians to acknowledge citizens’ needs as priorities rather than secondary obligations.

From 16 September to 31 October, 610 calls were made to the “Voters’ Voice” hotline. People’s main concerns were: corruption among politicians; electricity cuts; water reductions; the absence of water utility systems especially in villages where inhabitants drink water from untested wells; the lack of sewage systems in villages; and unpaved roads in rural areas. They also complained about nepotism, unemployment, poverty, pension and the political situation in North Mitrovica. Citizens expressed additional concerns during public meetings in eight municipalities: Gjakovë, Vushtrri, Kastriot, Viti, Prizren, Drenas, Mitrovicë and Fushë Kosovë.

KWN released its first report detailing citizens’ priorities on 10 November, and it received broad media coverage. The report was delivered to Deputy Prime Minister Hajredin Kuçi and all parliament deputies.