The Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) has welcomed Ebba Hellman, a bright and energetic political scientist from Sweden to our team. Since February, she has been contributing as a volunteer researcher, bringing expertise and fresh perspective to KWN’s research efforts. Ebba’s background in political science, peace and conflict studies, and law have contributed to her understanding of the region’s social and historical context. Her passion for human rights and women’s rights drives her work.
”I’ve always been fascinated by the Balkans, but I didn’t know much about Kosovo before moving here. I wanted to do an internship at an Embassy with a development section, so I applied for the position here, but my interest in Kosovo as a country has grown so much”, she said.
Joining the Swedish Embassy in Prishtina in September 2024, she was involved in the development section. Ebba felt that working solely in the Embassy’s Political Section would not provide the full experience she sought. She wanted to be involved not only in political work, but also in the development cooperation efforts of the Embassy and beyond.
“I’ve heard a lot about KWN during my time in Kosovo, and I have been following your work,” Ebba said. “I was curious to see the work of a CSO from inside, and being passionate about women’s rights, pushed me to join and to extend my stay here”.
At KWN, Ebba is engaged in KWN’s research and supporting fundraising for KWN and its members.
Coming to Kosovo, she was warmly welcomed by people here. “People told me before coming here: ‘All Kosovars are so friendly, and you will experience that’, and I really have”, Ebba said.
The political context involves several challenges, but it is also interesting from a political scientist’s perspective to live here, she said. Living in Kosovo has been interesting for her as well: living in a post-conflict society and seeing development and building of a democratic society.
“If I see myself in my career, working either within global development, or development cooperation in any form, I think it is very useful to have the perspective of a local CSO, not only of an Embassy or a Development Agency,” she said.
Ebba also enjoys spending time outdoors, including horseback riding, a tradition in her family.
Ebba is excited to continue contributing at KWN. She even extended her stay an additional month, providing an incredible contribution to our work!
Ebba remains open to new opportunities that may arise in Kosovo. Whether through research, advocacy or development work, her experience here has deepened her commitment to human rights and global development.
Ebba is a great example of volunteering for a good cause, and you or someone you know, could be the next to make an impact.
We at the Kosovo Women’s Network are calling on individuals from all backgrounds, ages, and communities to actively engage in strengthening the feminist movement in Kosovo. We know that when more people step forward, more voices are heard, and real change becomes possible. This is a moment to stand together, to challenge inequality, and to build a society where gender justice is not just a goal but a reality.
Through our Volunteer Program, we offer a space for learning, advocacy, and action. Whether you are a researcher, an activist, a student, or simply someone passionate about human rights, your involvement can make a difference. By joining us, you will have the opportunity to gain new skills, contribute to research, and deepen your understanding of the challenges women in Kosovo face, such as gender-based violence, economic inequality, and systemic discrimination.
Over the years, we have engaged at least 392 diverse volunteers from Kosovo and beyond, empowering them with the tools to become advocates for change. Now, we are expanding this movement, and we need you. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive feminist movement – one that amplifies voices, influences policies, and paves the way for a more just and equal future.
This is your chance to be part of something bigger. Will you join us?
If you would like to contribute as a volunteer, like Ebba and our other dedicated volunteers, please reach out to us at info@womensnetwork.org to hear more about our Volunteer Program.
