Kosovo Women's Network

KWN Contributes to Regional Conference on LGBTIQ+ Rights

30.11.2023

In the last two decades enormous progress has been made in furthering the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, intersex, queer and other identifying persons (LGBTIQ+) in Kosovo. The movement has gained recognition, made progress in improving the legal framework and gained visibility and some understanding among people. Meanwhile, the anti-gender movement remains a real threat to LGBTIQ+ activists in Kosovo and the region. It threatens their rights to marriage, having children, access to healthcare, economic opportunities and social acceptance.

In discussing how the anti-gender movement has affected lesbian activists, KWN Executive Director Igballe Rogova said, “Let’s call this anti-gender movement what it really is: It’s a patriarchy movement”.

Powerful men seeking to maintain their power and positions of privilege are financing the anti-gender movement to reinforce patriarchal values, framed as “traditional, family values”, which often undermine women’s rights, bodily autonomy and contribute directly to male power over women and violence against women.

To address this strong, well-financed patriarchal movement, “We have to unite [and] do more together,” Rogova said. She emphasised the importance of women being in solidarity with each other.

Rogova also shared her personal story of how patriarchy had affected her. During a panel on “LBTQ+ Women’s representation in conservative/homophobic/transphobic societies”, she shared how media “outed” her publicly without her consent. She shared the pain she felt when her friends working in media betrayed her by writing a slanderous article about her wedding.

Rogova made it through this difficult period in her life with the support of her family and fellow women’s rights activists. “My support is family, friends and the movement,” she said. “So, let’s stay together. Let’s mobilise together. Let’s criticise patriarchy instead of each other.”

As a feminist activist, Rogova said that she has three aims: to engage men as key allies in challenging patriarchy; for younger generations to take the lead, as they know how to reach new members of the movement; and to establish solidarity among women.

The regional “LBTQ+ Women’s Conference Empowering HerStory” on 24 Nov. was part of a regional conference on “the state of play of LGBTIQ+ rights in the Western Balkans and Türkiye on 23-25 November, organised by the Centre for Social Groups Development (CSGD) and the Centre for Equality and Liberty.

During a celebration of CSGD’s 20^th Anniversary as an organisation defending LGBTIQ+ rights on 24 Nov., CSGD awarded Rogova with an official recognition for her contribution to advancing the rights of LGBTIQ+ persons in Kosovo. Rogova was one of the first outspoken activist for LGBTIQ+ rights in Kosovo and the region and has been a staunch supporter of LGBTIQ+ activists, organisations and legal changes to defend their rights.

18.06.25

Workshop Held on Social Services, Rights, and Other Mechanisms

12.06.25

Activists Engage in President’s Global Forum on Women, Peace and Security

30.05.25

WCSOs Ask: What’s the Real Cost of Specialised Services for Gender-based Violence? 

30.05.25

Budget Red Lines: Community Session Calls for Action on Menstrual Poverty

30.05.25

The Institutional Crisis Continues to Contribute to Discrimination Against Women

29.05.25

Preventing and Protecting Blind Women and Girls in Kosovo from Violence

Marie Kraja: The Enchanting Voice of Albanian Opera and the Woman Who Broke Taboos Through Art

28.11.2023

Artists such as Marie Kraja rarely emerge in the Albanian artistic world. She is a symbol of Albanian musical art, and one of the most prominent figures in this genre. Wherever she contributed, be it in the interpretation of popular songs, the virtuosity of operatic vocals, or even in the field of pedagogy and teaching the younger generation with a passion for singing, she dedicated herself wholeheartedly and with great passion.

“When I was little, my father asked me if I wanted to be a teacher or a singer. I chose singing because I believed in my ability. He advised me to study to become a singer, saying, ‘Who knows, maybe one day you can sing in the opera in our country,'” Marie Kraja confessed in a 1974 interview broadcast on Radio Television of Pristina.

And her father’s prediction came true. Marie Kraja became the first Albanian opera singer, performing in the inaugural Albanian opera “Mrika.” Born in Zare, Dalmatia, in 1911, Marie Kraja moved to Shkodër with her family at the age of 6.

She completed her advanced singing studies at the Conservatory of Graz in Austria from 1930 to 1934. Her debut took place at the “Evening of Nations” in Vienna, where she represented Albania by interpreting two Albanian popular songs.

“In Vienna, at the meeting of Nations, in addition to performing foreign songs, I also sang two Albanian songs that left a great impression at the time. The press spoke well of it too. This year in Graz, I sang at the inauguration of the ‘Mocarti’ hall. Then, I returned to my homeland, enthusiastic,” said Marie Kraja.

Her activity in Albania began in 1934, alongside pianist Tonin Guraziu, in a concert in Tirana. In 1938, despite maintaining a busy concert schedule, she started working as a music teacher at the “Queen Mother” Institute. Later, she taught at Radio Tirana and the Artistic Lyceum in 1946. With the opening of the High Institute of Arts, Maria began teaching there. Since the inception of the Opera and Ballet Theatre, she sang from its first premiere and was one of the first soloists of the Theatre.

Even after retiring, she did not give up her teaching activity.

Marie Kraja brought a new tradition of singing to Shkodër, alongside other progressive women in music such as Tefta Tashko Koço. Her musical influence extended beyond Albania, with a dense and rich activity on international stages, including Italy, Austria, Germany, China, Korea, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Bulgaria, and the former Soviet Union.

Despite her engagement with folk songs, Marie Kraja delved into the works of classical composers such as Schumann, Schubert, Weber, Beethoven, Mozart, Strauss, Bach, and more, as noted by publicist Albert Vataj. However, her true passion lay in collecting folk songs. She meticulously gathered 300 folk songs, particularly from the northern region of Albania. These songs were sourced from cities such as Pejë, Gjakovë, Shkodër, Korçë, Berat, Elbasan, Tirana, and others. This valuable collection found its preservation in the Radio-Tirana institution, serving as a significant repository of Albanian cultural heritage.

Maria also faced challenges with the communist system, becoming a target as someone with a perceived “bad biography” rooted in allegations that her family had connections with exponents of Nazism. These accusations were a means to crucify her artistically and tarnish her reputation. Despite these adversities, she continued to hold a special place in the public’s heart as a source of pride for Albanian song and a world-class professional in interpretation.

Numerous articles, essays, and evaluations have been dedicated to People’s Artist Marie Kraja by various authors. Musicologist and music critic Spiro Kalemi, who authored a monograph on Marie Kraja, expressed:

“Maria, through her singing, skillfully unraveled the dynamics of civic life, shedding light on various social motives and capturing the worldview of an era. Her songs authentically reflected the tastes of a particular environment. Simultaneously, her adept use of singing techniques and voice created a harmonious fusion for both the poetic and musical elements of the songs,” states Kalemi.

Lecturer and researcher Ferid Bala, in “Songs and Singers from Shkodër” (Shkodër, 2014), offers his perspective: “In our opinion, Marie Kraja elevated folk songs from the confines of family audiences to open concert settings accessible to people of all ages and genders. Overcoming the vocal limitations of ordinary folk singers and steering clear of the excesses seen in many professional artists regarding phrasing and vocal density, Marie’s measured and precise singing style became an exemplary model. The enduring appeal of the songs performed by Marie Kraja, in our view, is largely attributed to two factors – the inherent value of the songs themselves and, secondly, the way she interpreted them,” he affirms.

For her extensive artistic contributions, Marie Kraja received numerous honors, titles, orders, and medals. In 1961, she was among the first to be awarded the prestigious title of “People’s Artist.” Despite the passage of years, Marie Kraja continues to stand as a symbol of Albanian music. In 1986, on the occasion of her 85th birthday, she was honored with the “Grand Master of Work” order. As a testament to the enduring appreciation for her work and legacy, the “Marie Kraja” International Opera Festival was established, successfully celebrating its 19th edition in May of this year.

Marie Kraja passed away in Tirana on November 21, 1999. Her legacy lives on through her profound impact on Albanian music and the lasting recognition bestowed upon her in the form of awards and festivals.

18.06.25

Workshop Held on Social Services, Rights, and Other Mechanisms

12.06.25

Activists Engage in President’s Global Forum on Women, Peace and Security

30.05.25

WCSOs Ask: What’s the Real Cost of Specialised Services for Gender-based Violence? 

30.05.25

Budget Red Lines: Community Session Calls for Action on Menstrual Poverty

30.05.25

The Institutional Crisis Continues to Contribute to Discrimination Against Women

29.05.25

Preventing and Protecting Blind Women and Girls in Kosovo from Violence

Inadequate Access to Gynecological Services for Women and Girls in Skenderaj

22.11.2023

The Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) member organization, NGO Drugëza, had a meeting centered around the theme “Reproductive Health, Gynecological Services, Research Findings, and Future Steps.” This culminated the research conducted under the project “Increasing Women’s Access to Quality Health Care.”

Marking the sixth and final meeting of the “The Right to Quality Health Care” project, approximately 200 women participated, gaining valuable insights into reproductive health and general gynecological issues.

Gentiana Zeqiri, the Project Coordinator, stated that almost all girls and women who participated in the six conducted training sessions lacked sufficient information regarding their reproductive health and general gynecological issues.

Zeqiri remarked, “Women and girls have virtually no information at all. This was evident even during the project’s initial meeting and has been corroborated by our research on the topic, revealing a very low level of information and health checks conducted by women and girls. Consequently, we proceeded with information sessions where women readily absorbed any information provided by gynecologists. There has been a keen interest and high level of curiosity among women, especially girls, prompting them to ask questions. I believe that the information level has been elevated, and women and girls have gained awareness of the importance of gynecological reproductive health.”

In the municipality of Skenderaj, there is no gynecologist available at all three levels of the health system. Women seek medical attention at Mitrovica hospital and private clinics. Currently, there are approximately six gynecologists in Skenderaj, all of whom operate within private practices. Consequently, this situation has heightened concerns among women and girls, as the availability of services is notably limited. Hana Zabeli, director of the Drugëza organization, said that they have tried to include as many women and girls as possible in every meeting held.

“We have invited different women and girls to various meetings, a total of six that we have conducted, to disseminate information regarding reproductive and gynecological health in general. Five women who had not previously undergone check-ups visited the gynecologist and identified and addressed issues that are now being treated.

Throughout the six meetings within the project, we have provided information to approximately 200 women and girls. They were informed by the gynecologist about various aspects they were interested in and were previously unaware of. Today, the project is completed, and I believe it was one of the most successful projects,” said Mrs. Zabeli.

Ermira Veseli, a participant in the training, expressed that whenever she has attended such meetings, they have been fruitful and highly informative.

“Every time I attended the training, we received valuable information from the gynecologist who served as our trainer. In our early years, due to our mindset, we, as girls, hesitated to visit the gynecologist. There has always been a prevailing prejudice that it is not advisable for young girls to see a gynecologist. However, through these sessions, we have come to understand that even at a young age, it is essential for girls to have gynecological check-ups, receive information about reproductive health, sexually transmitted diseases, and various other topics. Therefore, I believe that these meetings are crucial for girls and women in general,” she said.

Drugëza conducted this activity as a beneficiary of the 18th round of the Kosovo Women’s Fund, supported by the KWN’s Further Advancing Women’s Rights in Kosovo II,” financed by the Austrian Agency for Development (ADA) and co-financed by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida).

18.06.25

Workshop Held on Social Services, Rights, and Other Mechanisms

12.06.25

Activists Engage in President’s Global Forum on Women, Peace and Security

30.05.25

WCSOs Ask: What’s the Real Cost of Specialised Services for Gender-based Violence? 

30.05.25

Budget Red Lines: Community Session Calls for Action on Menstrual Poverty

30.05.25

The Institutional Crisis Continues to Contribute to Discrimination Against Women

29.05.25

Preventing and Protecting Blind Women and Girls in Kosovo from Violence

V Empowers Activists to Dream beyond Patriarchy, Unite against Violence

22.11.2023

On Tuesday night (21 November) feminist activists in Prishtina were inspired by V (formerly known as Eve Ensler), the award-winning, globally renowned artist, activist and writer. She spoke about how her art has inspired her activism.

“What motivated me is rage and love,” she said, discussing how both empower her work.

She reflected on how patriarchy through power, domination and money enable continued violence against women, the expansion of fascism, growing conflict globally and regression in women’s rights.

In this atmosphere, it is easy to lose hope and succumb to loneliness and depression. 

What motivates V to continue, amid the pessimists who say that violence against women will never end?

She refuses to accept such lack of imagination that a future without patriarchy and violence is indeed possible. She invited the audience to imagine what such a world would look like and to work together towards co-creating it.

“No-one has ever talked us out of our dream”, she said.

The global One Billion Rising movement, initiated by V in cooperation with activists around the world, recognizes the fact that one in three women have suffered violence, totalling more than one billion women. If all women who have suffered violence rise up together, we can realize our dream of ending violence against women.

“This energy of one million women, men supporters and their allies all dancing together could end patriarchy”, V said. The whole earth would move. “We have power. We just need courage and organization.”

When asked about the role of social media in the movement, she was conflicted between the misinformation and loneliness it causes and its power to spread information.

“Social media is an add-on, but it’s not it. … You have to feel and touch [the movement] with your body.” She emphasized the importance of networking, physical contact, and dance in motivating and expanding the global feminist movement.

V encouraged and empowered activists to join the struggle, to unite in ending patriarchy and violence against women, and to dream of and work towards the new world we can build together.

The event was co-organized by KWN and Artpolis with support from the National Library.

18.06.25

Workshop Held on Social Services, Rights, and Other Mechanisms

12.06.25

Activists Engage in President’s Global Forum on Women, Peace and Security

30.05.25

WCSOs Ask: What’s the Real Cost of Specialised Services for Gender-based Violence? 

30.05.25

Budget Red Lines: Community Session Calls for Action on Menstrual Poverty

30.05.25

The Institutional Crisis Continues to Contribute to Discrimination Against Women

29.05.25

Preventing and Protecting Blind Women and Girls in Kosovo from Violence

RrOGRAEK Holds Training on Gender-Based Violence

20.11.2023

The member organization of KWN, the Network of Roma, Ashkali, and Egyptian Women’s Organisations of Kosovo (RrOGRAEK), has held training on gender-based violence, with an emphasis on domestic violence and early marriages. The purpose of this activity is to enhance the capacities of the activists/volunteers of RrOGRAEK in the field of gender-based violence, in accordance with the relevant legislation applicable in Kosovo and the Istanbul Convention.

There were 16 participants in the training, comprising 10 women and 6 men from the Roma, Ashkali, and Egyptian communities in the municipalities of Fushë Kosova, Mitrovica, and Prizren. Trainer Donjeta Morina emphasized that providing information on how to identify forms of gender-based violence facilitates the distribution of information for reporting.

“As for reporting gender-based violence, there is insufficient information among citizens, and, in general, instances of gender-based violence often go unreported. What continues to be concerning is the tendency to blame the victim for gender-based violence, both by institutions and society itself,” she said.

Xhulieta Devolli, the project manager, spoke about the training, mentioning that this is the fourth session conducted with 15 individuals who have undergone previous training on gender-based violence as part of this grant over the past months.

“Today, we have included information about the various forms of gender-based violence, the relevant institutions responsible for addressing these forms, and the procedures for reporting cases. Our aim was to provide more specific explanations and general information about gender-based violence. Most importantly, the participants in the training, who are activists of RrOGRAEK, disseminate the information they receive in various forms within their communities. Additionally, they play a crucial role in assisting victims of different forms of gender-based violence, particularly those affected by domestic violence and early/compulsory marriages, in reporting these cases,” said Devolli.

She added that they are consistently in the field, and information about gender-based violence often doesn’t reach isolated neighborhoods, especially those inhabited by Roma. Women in these areas face challenges such as low levels of education and various barriers that prevent them from accessing information to escape various forms of violence. This lack of opportunity hinders them from realizing their rights.

Gynesh Veshall, a civil society activist in Prizren and participant in the training, emphasized the importance of every meeting, stating that they actively convey messages to the community.

“The Roma, Ashkali, and Egyptian communities are becoming informed about their rights, and the importance of reporting violence, especially in Prizren, where I work and operate. In comparison to previous years, there was limited information, but through our activities, we’ve raised awareness. It’s crucial to note that violence against women is a global issue, not limited to specific communities. We shouldn’t label ourselves. All women are susceptible to sexual, psychological, and physical violence,” she said.

Mrs. Veshall further added that the Roma theater in Prizren, “Nexhip Menekshe,” has been using performances to raise awareness, conveying messages about early marriages and violence. This awareness is being disseminated through the stage and the theater, reaching a wide audience.

This activity was made possible through the grant obtained in the 18th round of the Kosovo Women’s Fund by the KWN for core support, funded by the Sigrid Rausing Foundation.

18.06.25

Workshop Held on Social Services, Rights, and Other Mechanisms

12.06.25

Activists Engage in President’s Global Forum on Women, Peace and Security

30.05.25

WCSOs Ask: What’s the Real Cost of Specialised Services for Gender-based Violence? 

30.05.25

Budget Red Lines: Community Session Calls for Action on Menstrual Poverty

30.05.25

The Institutional Crisis Continues to Contribute to Discrimination Against Women

29.05.25

Preventing and Protecting Blind Women and Girls in Kosovo from Violence

Humanus Vita Challenges Stereotypes by Advocating for the Inclusion of Sex Education in Schools

17.11.2023

The member organization of the Kosovo Women’s Network, Humanus Vita, hosted the closing session for the project ‘Inclusion of Sexual Education and Challenging Stereotypes Towards the Transformation of Gender Norms Through Education.’ This initiative was implemented in four primary schools within the Municipality of Drenas, focusing on the subject of Biology.

Through this project, the aim is to gain a deeper understanding of the taboos surrounding sex education. Additionally, it seeks to raise awareness among young people regarding their bodies, sexual orientation, and the importance of reducing instances of sexual harassment, sexual assaults, sexually transmitted diseases, and unwanted pregnancies.

Valentina Bejtullahu, a researcher, presented the findings of a four-month study. She stated that teachers agree on the inclusion of sexual education as a separate subject in the school curriculum. According to her, the least addressed topics are sexual violence and sexual harassment.

“The municipality of Drenas is renowned for the quality of education, particularly in comparison to other municipalities in Kosovo. In addition to teachers, students actively engage in biology lessons where topics related to sexual education are addressed. Debates with officials, whether with teachers or even school directors, are important to highlight the significance of explaining sexual education without social prejudices, using appropriate means of concretization, and giving more space to the treatment of these topics that impact a healthy life in young people,” she said, adding that ‘a challenge in dealing with these topics is the lack of specialized biological laboratories in the municipality of Drenas.

Doruntina Gashi, the project coordinator at Humanus Vita, stated that the project aims to illuminate the path toward a more conscious and equal society by raising the level of knowledge and awareness about the importance of sexual education. Gashi further added that sexual education in the country does not exist as a separate subject in the core curriculum but is instead included within the biology subject.

Meanwhile, the director of the ‘Ali Gashi’ school in Drenas, Antigona Gashi, reiterated that meetings like these, where research is presented regarding the inclusion of sexual education and challenging stereotypes towards the transformation of gender norms through education, are extremely important.

“Problems vary from school to school, so in groups, we can identify and share ideas on how to best support the students. Students are knowledgeable about sex education, but the best source of information is the school. It is not always possible to obtain accurate information from social networks. Today, we learned from the individuals present at this table that the website of the Ministry of Education contains materials that can be used during the explanation of a biology lesson on sex education,” she said.

Municipal officials, school principals, teachers, pedagogues, psychologists, members of civil society, and the media were part of the discussion.

Humanus Vita conducted this activity as a beneficiary of the 18th round of the Kosovo Women’s Fund, supported by the KWN’s Further Advancing Women’s Rights in Kosovo II,” financed by the Austrian Agency for Development (ADA) and co-financed by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida).

18.06.25

Workshop Held on Social Services, Rights, and Other Mechanisms

12.06.25

Activists Engage in President’s Global Forum on Women, Peace and Security

30.05.25

WCSOs Ask: What’s the Real Cost of Specialised Services for Gender-based Violence? 

30.05.25

Budget Red Lines: Community Session Calls for Action on Menstrual Poverty

30.05.25

The Institutional Crisis Continues to Contribute to Discrimination Against Women

29.05.25

Preventing and Protecting Blind Women and Girls in Kosovo from Violence

Shelters’ Staff Wrap Up Three-Day Workshop

17.11.2023

In a dynamic conclusion on November 17, representatives from shelters gathered for a workshop organized by Kosovo Women’s Network.

The event brought together participants from shelters and dedicated centers, focused on delivering impactful services for victims of gender-based violence.

Throughout the vibrant workshop held from November 15 to 17, participants delved into discussions on well-being, safety, and the challenges inherent in their work. Given their daily interaction with victims, the dedicated staff recognized the risk of professional burnout in their crucial roles.

Reflecting on the workshop’s significance, Ardita Thaqi, a representative from a Kosovo shelter said:

“The workshop made me realize how busy I have been,” said while underscored the imperative need for such gatherings to sustain the quality and effectiveness of services provided to women, girls, and children who have survived violence.

This initiative has been supported by Canada Fund for Local Initiatives.

18.06.25

Workshop Held on Social Services, Rights, and Other Mechanisms

12.06.25

Activists Engage in President’s Global Forum on Women, Peace and Security

30.05.25

WCSOs Ask: What’s the Real Cost of Specialised Services for Gender-based Violence? 

30.05.25

Budget Red Lines: Community Session Calls for Action on Menstrual Poverty

30.05.25

The Institutional Crisis Continues to Contribute to Discrimination Against Women

29.05.25

Preventing and Protecting Blind Women and Girls in Kosovo from Violence

Gender Perspective Analysis of the European Commission’s Report on Kosovo by KWN

15.11.2023

The Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) has conducted a detailed analysis of this year’s European Commission (EC) Report on Kosovo, focusing on issues related to gender integration.

The commentary highlights both positive developments and areas that require further attention to enhance gender equality in Kosovo.

“Overall, the Report addressed approximately 70% of the recommendations made by KWN and its members. The Commentary states that four pledges that directly address gender equality have been included based on the data sent by KWN and other civil society organizations.”

Specifically, concerning the advancement of gender equality, the 2023 Report states that Kosovo should make improvements in the following areas:

Rule of law: Improving the capacities of judges and prosecutors to handle cases of gender-based violence in accordance with the laws, the 2022-2026 Strategy against domestic violence and violence against women, and the new State Protocol for handling cases of sexual violence.
Fundamental rights: Strengthening the protection of civil and fundamental rights of women by adopting the Civil Code, implementing the Law on prevention and protection from domestic violence, and strengthening the implementation of the Law on gender equality and the Strategy on gender-based violence.
Social policy and employment: Adoption of changes to the Labor Law to harmonize with the latest EU acquis, especially regarding non-discrimination in employment and parental leave; Continuation of deep reforms in the field of social assistance schemes to ensure better targeting and impact and to improve access to social services.

Highlighting areas requiring improvement, KWN emphasizes the ongoing absence of gender analysis within the security context, particularly in regions affected by increased violence.

The neglect of women’s roles in peace processes persists, impacting inclusiveness in the Kosovo-Serbia Dialogue. The full treatment of gender-based violence under the rule of law chapter remains incomplete, and there is a lack of sufficient gender-disaggregated data in various sectors, impeding a comprehensive understanding of societal needs.

KWN recommends several actions to enhance the comprehensiveness and representativeness of future reports. KWN urges the EU to maintain its commitment to advancing gender equality in Kosovo, underlining the importance of continuous efforts to address remaining gaps. The full commentary is available here.

28.03.25

Reaction of the Kosovo Women’s Network to the Recent Killings in Kosovo due to illegal weapons

08.11.24

Press Release – Recommendations for the Kosovo Parliament

05.11.24

Response to Klan Kosova – Do Not Promote the Perpetrators

04.11.24

Violence Against the Minor is Intolerable – KWN Calls for Justice and Immediate Action

31.10.24

The Irresolute Resolution? After 24 Years, Resolution 1325 Remains Valid but Under-implemented

17.10.24

Letter to the Chairman of the Assembly of Kosovo, Glauk Konjufca

Liliana Çavolli – The Albanian Music Diva who Generously Shared her Song and Soul with the Public

14.11.2023

Liliana Çavolli has left a permanent mark in the history of Kosovar music, leaving behind more than 300 immortal songs. She is among the first singers in Kosovo to have completed music school, at a time when realizing such a dream was a challenge. Liliana not only became beloved for the music she offered but also paved the way for many young women who followed her path.

She graced the music scene for more than five decades. Known as Lili to her friends, she also contributed to the music editorial office at Radio Prishtina. Before the war, she served as the author and moderator of the show ‘Evergreen’ on Radio Kosova. Her 70th birthday and five decades of a career on stage were celebrated in a mega-concert organized by Grupi Koha at the National Theater of Kosovo in February 2013.

“For five decades in a row, she gave her song and soul to the public. She never asked for anything in return. But time brought her reward. The evening of Sunday, February 3, for many may have been ordinary. But not for the diva of Albanian music, Liliana Çavolli,” Koha Ditore wrote about the concert. “It is the most beautiful evening of my life,” was the description given by Çavolli for the gala concert entitled “Song and Soul, for Lili with Heart.”

Liliana Çavolli was born in Prizren, while her family came to Kosovo from Korça. She grew up in Skopje, North Macedonia. Liliana’s mother was a singer, and one morning she took her as a companion to a radio appearance, where her career in music began. Fate again brought her back to Prizren where Liliana took her first steps as a singer. At the same time, she attended solo singing lessons at a high school of music and joined the Artistic Cultural Society ‘Agimi.’ Talent, voice, and work in Prizren made Liliana quickly stand out as a promising name.”

The singer from Prizren was known as the lily of this city, and the song ‘Lily of Prizren’ best symbolizes the artist. Liliana Çavolli stood out as a rare artist who conquered the heights of pop music but also excelled in other genres. She radiated positivity and warmth with those who gravitated close to her. Liliana, with her personality and creativity, has enriched cultural life, remaining forever a precious cultural treasure. For Lili, her friend and famous singer Nexhmije Pagarusha said:

“Liliana Çavolli is an excellent singer, both in the past and today. She has sung with equal success in both pop and the folk song genres. Liliana is a wonderful soprano who can still perform live today. She would never agree to sing ‘playback.”

Sami Piraj, composer, and music journalist, described Liliana by saying, “she has a characteristic, clear timbre, warm vocation, shaped color, clear diction that are the basis of the value of the caliber of affirmed singers.”

“Liliana’s name remains in our song thanks to these characteristics. She does not want to remain ordinary in every interpretation of the songs. On the contrary, the experience of the notes with the text remains a preoccupation to sculpt to the maximum what they were and remain synonymous with our great singers such as Nexhmije Pagarusha, Vace Zela, Hafsa Zyberi, Naile Hoxha, Fitnete Rexha, Shpresa Gashi, Shahindere Bërlajolli, etc.”

Liliana’s childhood was not easy, as her father was constantly persecuted by the then regime.

“We had harmony when we were together—mother, father, and two brothers—but our comfort was ruined by the persecutions and imprisonment of my father,” Liliana confessed in interviews with Kosovo media.

“My career has made me happy, but when my daughter was born in 1972, it seemed to me that the whole world was mine,” Lili confessed about the time when she gave birth to Irena.

Irena, who lives in London, thinks that her mother Liliana has not fully developed her potential.

“I think he could have done more, and it hurts my heart that she hasn’t been singing for a long time. Now he has an even better voice, but he can’t make songs. Unfortunately, I did not become rich in exile so that I could help them achieve even more,” said Irena.

But, did a song or something else really remain hostage to Liliana?

“I really wanted to do classical music. I had all the predispositions to become an opera singer, but that’s not how it happened. I came to Kosovo, I started singing… I was drawn to entertainment, fun, pop music, I got a job… So I didn’t commit myself to fulfilling this desire, but I wish this to young talents. There are many of them who can really achieve. I would have told them not to go and sing in cafes but to save their voices, to get educated, that one day this segment will definitely work properly,” said Liliana Çavolli in an interview for Radio Kosovo.

Liliana Çavolli was born in 1942 and passed away in 2015.

18.06.25

Workshop Held on Social Services, Rights, and Other Mechanisms

12.06.25

Activists Engage in President’s Global Forum on Women, Peace and Security

30.05.25

WCSOs Ask: What’s the Real Cost of Specialised Services for Gender-based Violence? 

30.05.25

Budget Red Lines: Community Session Calls for Action on Menstrual Poverty

30.05.25

The Institutional Crisis Continues to Contribute to Discrimination Against Women

29.05.25

Preventing and Protecting Blind Women and Girls in Kosovo from Violence

Having Internal Documents Helps NGOs in Winning Projects

09.11.2023

Among the challenges they constantly face in their efforts to support women, Non-Governmental Organizations need to be legally compliant, possess appropriate documentation, and demonstrate their commitment. Adherence to the law and possession of such documents facilitate NGOs in applying for and winning grants and various projects. Organizations dedicated to advancing gender equality in Kosovo must register with the relevant authorities to ensure compliance with the current legislation, making their work more efficient.

NGOs often find themselves in situations where they must provide data that attests to the credibility of their organization when applying for projects with various institutions. This may include documents such as the organization’s establishment act, the NGO’s statute, financial management regulations, and more. Those advocating for women’s rights consider it essential for each organization to have its own internal regulations.

Dhurata Prokshi, with experience in writing and coordinating NGO projects, concurs that organizations’ internal regulations enhance their perceived credibility. She notes that the search for the aforementioned data has also become a criterion for organization donors. “Organizations and donor agencies don’t always demand a standalone internal regulations document, but they evaluate the seriousness of an organization’s activities, and its profile, by requesting these documents,” she explains.

The Perspective of the Kosovo Women’s Network on NGO Management

There are over 12,000 active NGO’s in Kosovo Out of this total, 141 organizations are members of the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN), operating across the entire country.

In accordance with the Regulation and Code of Conduct for KWN Membership, every NGO seeking to join the network must accept the KWN Statute and Mission, pledge to support KWN’s objectives, complete and submit the KWN membership application, and commit to adhering to the Regulations and Code of Conduct for Membership.

Over the past year, the KWN has released a report evaluating its members. This assessment encompasses the aspect of whether NGOs possess internal documents and regulations. In a separate statistical analysis, KWN also addressed work regulations. According to KWN, out of 141 organizations, 58 members, or 48 percent, have established written regulations for work and behavioral standards that govern their operations.

While Prokshi, who in her career also worked as a project coordinator, said that possessing regulations is, in any case, an indicator of the organization’s seriousness. It can help the organization stand out in the competition compared to others. However, she adds that if such a document was not requested in the call, it may not carry decisive weight.

“Although I have not conducted research in this direction, from what I have come across, I have noticed that large organizations with a wide geographic scope, especially those engaged in policy design, implementation, and monitoring supported by large donors, tend to develop such regulations, but not all,” she said.

Medium and small organizations do not appear to adopt this practice.

According to the Department of NGOs in the Ministry of Internal Affairs, there are a total of 12,433 active organizations in their database. This number includes three possible categories of organizations as NGOs, which are associations, foundations, and institutes.

KWN, with a mission to support, protect, and promote the rights and interests of women and girls throughout Kosovo, maintains ongoing collaborations with NGOs across the region. This network demonstrates that its members represent diverse ethnic groups, various age groups, different abilities, and come from various geographic areas. They collectively address important issues affecting the people, particularly women and girls, within their respective communities.

To further support NGOs, KWN has established the Kosovo Women’s Fund. This fund offers small grants to women’s organizations that lack access to alternative sources of funding and are dedicated to advancing women’s rights, particularly among groups in rural areas and marginalized communities.

According to publicly available data, since the establishment of the Kosovo Women’s Fund, the Network has awarded a total of 289 grants, for 153 organizations. The total value of of these grants so far is 1,771,249.96 Euro.

While the organizations also have support from the Ministry of Justice, NGOs continuously complain that this institutional support is insufficient for their activities.

Afërdita Zeneli, from the NGO “Dita” operating in Pristina, informed KALLXO.com that they haven’t received any support from either the central or local government throughout this year. She mentioned that they have internal regulations and possess the necessary documents typically required, which have been beneficial in many cases. However, this year, the primary challenge they face is financial constraints.

“We have the documents, but there are still many financial challenges. We don’t receive support from the government,” she stated.

The Ministry of Justice, in its structure, includes the Department for Social Services Policy, which operated under the Ministry of Finance until December 2022.

In early 2023, the Ministry of Justice, in alignment with its responsibilities, initiated a call for subsidizing NGOs that offer social and family services to citizens in need of social support.

In 2023, as per the Ministry of Justice, the Government of Kosovo has provided support to legal entities, specifically NGOs, amounting to 500 thousand euros for the period of January to April 2023.

The Ministry of Justice has announced that they are currently in the process of allocating financial support totaling 1 million and 500 thousand euros for the period from May to December 2023, extending to February 2024.

The Ministry of Justice’s responses indicated that in 2022, the Ministry of Finance provided financial support to organizations, totaling 1 million euros. Out of this amount, 400,000 euros were designated for shelters, while 600,000 euros were allocated to other NGOs offering social and family services. In 2022, this financial support benefited a total of 44 legal entities, including 10 shelters and 34 other NGOs operating across the country.

Applying for Projects: Supporting Documents that help NGOs

The Kosovo Foundation for Civil Society (KCSF) is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to fostering the development of civil society and initiatives that promote a democratic culture while addressing the socio-economic needs of Kosovo. The organization places special emphasis on contributing to the process of Kosovo’s integration into the European Union, recognizing that compliance with human rights and gender equality is a fundamental requirement for EU membership. KCSF consistently provides various grants and support to NGOs in their endeavors. On their official website, they offer a detailed list of required documents for NGOs, underscoring the significance of each document.

You can find this list by clicking HERE.

Even Dhurata Prokshi, drawing from her experience, has compiled a list of documents that organizations commonly utilize to “impress donors” and demonstrate the commitment and seriousness of the applying NGO’s work.

“Auditor’s annual report, narrative work report, certificate from the Tax Administration of Kosovo, certification from the Commercial Court, CVs of the staff responsible for executing the proposed project, and a portfolio of projects, with a particular focus on those closely related to the grant application in question,” are among the documents she includes in her list.

She emphasizes that these documents serve as indicators of an organization’s development, stability, and commitment in adhering to the laws relevant to its field of operation. Furthermore, she points out that these data have become criteria used by donor organizations for the technical evaluation of applicants, often taking precedence over the evaluation of the content of project proposals.

Prokshi suggests that non-governmental organizations should view the formulation of internal regulations as an essential mechanism for assessing and monitoring the organization’s progress in alignment with its vision and objectives. Additionally, she proposes that the initiative to establish such regulations within NGOs should be driven by the community of institutional donors to better align with international donor requirements.

“One more aspect that needs clarification is that merely having regulations in place as a declaration does not guarantee their implementation within the organization. Therefore, these regulations should be incorporated into contracts to fortify the commitment and the quality of the employee-employer relationship, ultimately advancing the organization’s vision, work integrity, and other essential aspects,” she stated.

In her view, for such a document to carry significant weight, it should be developed following a standard applicable to a group of organizations, such as the NGO consortiums for children’s rights, environmental causes, or security, and it should be included as a distinct section in reporting. Moreover, legislative requirements mandate the formulation of internal regulations. The law governing freedom of association in non-governmental organizations also stipulates that NGOs must have internal documentation in place.

This law grants NGOs the right to solicit, accept, and utilize financial, material, and human resources, whether they are local, foreign, or international, to achieve their objectives and conduct their activities.

However, the law also outlines the necessary documents for NGOs, beginning with the founding act. This act should contain the organization’s full name and abbreviation, its organizational form (e.g., association, foundation, institute), address, purpose, field of activity, and other pertinent details. Each founder must sign the founding act, while for legal entities, the authorized representative of the legal entity signs it.

Additionally, NGOs are required to have their own statute, which serves as a detailed framework governing the organization’s structure, operations, and activities. You can access the complete law and additional information HERE.

This publication was made possible with the financial support of the European Union Office in Kosovo through the initiative of the Kosovo Women’s Network, “Enhancing the Capacities and Resilience of CSO’s: Furthering Gender Equality Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic.” Its content is the responsibility of Internews Kosova and does not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union Office in Kosovo.

18.06.25