For the Organisation of Persons with Muscular Dystrophy of Kosovo (OPDMK), inclusion means more than simply the presence of persons with disabilities. It means creating opportunities for them to learn, work, create and actively participate in society.
One of OPDMK’s most important achievements has been its advocacy for accessible public infrastructure in Prizren. After more than 15 years of advocacy and requests, an accessible public toilet was finally established.
The organisation continues to advocate for the adaptation of public transport and bus stations in line with accessibility standards. Founded in 2003 in Prizren, OPDMK works to promote equal opportunities and protect the rights of persons with muscular dystrophy and other persons with disabilities.
Its mission includes advancing the right to education, vocational training and rehabilitation, access to rehabilitation services and equal participation in social life. Alongside direct support, OPDMK advocates for improvements to laws and policies that affect the lives of persons with disabilities.
Through lectures, training, sports activities and awareness-raising sessions, the organisation works with persons with disabilities, their families, institutions and citizens. Through an intensive door-to-door campaign, the team reached 1,352 people directly, including 407 persons with disabilities.
One of its key activities is Muscular Dystrophy Week, which is marked each year through initiatives promoting equality, accessibility and inclusion. In 2025, under the slogan “Equality for All”, OPDMK organised exhibitions, artistic activities and awareness-raising actions.
Handicrafts created by women and girls with disabilities were exhibited to the public, contributing to their economic empowerment, increased self-confidence and visibility.
As part of the “Tree of Equality” activity, citizens left handprints as a sign of support for the rights of persons with disabilities. The programme also included joint performances by girls who use wheelchairs and dancers, conveying the message that art and cultural life should be open and accessible to everyone.
OPDMK also works to improve access to social and family services and provides physiotherapy and psychological services, assistive devices and information about existing services and the use of digital platforms, including E-Kosova. The organisation has also continuously advocated on the issue of personal assistants.
Inclusion also means participation in decision-making. In one election, 11 persons with disabilities from across Kosovo — four women and seven men — ran for political positions, while one OPDMK beneficiary won a mandate.
During a meeting with Antigona Šestani and Resmije Rahmani, co-founders of OPDMK, the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) discussed the organisation’s work and achievements, the barriers faced by persons with disabilities and opportunities for continued cooperation.
A member of KWN since 2011, OPDMK has contributed to initiatives advancing women’s rights, gender equality and the inclusion of persons with disabilities.
KWN will continue its cooperation with OPDMK and other member organisations, supporting efforts towards a barrier-free society where everyone can exercise their rights and fulfil their potential.
You can learn more about OPDMK’s work and activities on its Facebook page.
