The executive director of KWN, Rogova, meets Kasanof and Hovenier

28.10.2024

The United States Special Envoy for the Western Balkans, Alexander Kasanof, held meetings with civil society representatives in Kosovo this week, including Executive Director of the Kosovo Women’s Network, Igballe Rogova.

This meeting highlights the ongoing commitment of international institutions to include women’s voices in decision-making processes.

The Kosovo Women’s Network extends heartfelt thanks to the U.S. Ambassador, Jeffrey Hovenier, for his continuous support and dedication to ensuring women’s inclusion in these processes, making sure their voices are heard in key issues that Kosovo is facing.

30.04.26

Kosovo Hosts RESPONDER Partnership’s First Meeting, Co-Planning Research on Sexual Exploitation and Abuse by Aid Workers and Peacekeepers

30.04.26

From Struggle to Confidence: Supporting Girls in Their Teenage Years

30.04.26

New Paper Monitors Gender Equality in Kosovo’s Public Spending

29.04.26

Justice for survivors of gender-based violence: A success story from the Kosovo Women’s Network

28.04.26

KWN Publishes Policy Paper Urging Recognition and Protection of Personal Assistants for Persons with Disabilities

25.04.26

Advancing Women’s Rights Together: KWN’s 23rd Annual Assembly Reflects on Progress and the Road Ahead

EcoKos Women: Improving Health Care Access for Women in Obiliq

21.10.2024

Menstrual hygiene, access to health services, family planning, and various forms of contraception were among the topics addressed during the project that EcoKos Women (EKW) has been implementing for several months in the municipality of Obiliq. Challenges in accessing health services and receiving proper care remain evident in some municipalities. Additionally, awareness among women and girls about the services available at the Main Family Medicine Center (MFMC) and the Family Medicine Center (FMC) is still limited.

According to Shpresa Gosalci from EcoKos Women, their awareness of these challenges stems from an earlier project developed with the support of the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) in 2021.

For EcoKos, it is important to implement initiatives that address real, feasible community needs and contribute to improving livelihoods.

Obiliq is known for high levels of air pollution, which also contaminates the soil and water, leading to various health disorders among residents. To better understand these impacts and raise awareness among women about their right to access health services, EcoKos has developed a project focused on women and girls.

 “Obiliq is recognized as one of the most polluted municipalities, and this pollution causes various problems for its citizens. However, it is also among the municipalities that provide the most support to women,” says Shpresa Gosalci from EKW.

EcoKos recognizes the importance of acknowledging that women are often the most affected by such pollution.

The women participating in the lectures were from various communities within the municipality, except for the Serbian community, as these women receive services from clinics operating under the Serbian system. The beneficiaries of the project are women and girls from the municipality of Obiliq, focusing on raising awareness about quality health care, reproductive health, menstrual hygiene management, family planning, and the importance of reporting violations of these rights.

According to the project’s progress report, 34 women from the municipality of Obiliq have benefited during this four-month period. The women participating in the meetings gained insights into their rights regarding health services, including mechanisms for reporting violations, as well as reproductive health care, menstrual hygiene management, and family planning.  

An important aspect of women’s self-awareness is the ability to request clear and understandable explanations from health staff. Shpresa from EKW shares a specific case: “One of the women expressed, ‘I don’t understand when they talk to me using medical terms.’ She acknowledged that the next time she visits, she will ask for explanations in a way that she can understand, as it is her right.”

It is crucial for women to be aware of their right to request detailed and simplified communication to better understand their health status.

During these months, the research methodology and the questionnaire for surveying women were developed. Additionally, guides for focus groups and interviews with institutional representatives were created.  

The municipality of Obiliq has a Main Family Medicine Center (MFMC) in Obiliq/Obilić, a Family Medicine Center (FMC) in Milloshevë/ Miloševo, and clinics in the villages of Breznicë/Breznica, Sibovc/ Sibovac, Babin most, and Plemetin, where both Albanians and members of the Serbian community work. The staff from the Serbian community in these clinics operate under the Serbian system and do not report complaints from patients seeking services there. 

“In addition to raising awareness, we have documented six violations, and we will document four more violations as well as a case of assisted reporting for complaints related to access to health services,” said Shpresa Gosalci from EKW.

The project has yielded positive results regarding women’s awareness of their rights, and there have been notable reactions in this area. Mrs. Shpresa shared with the Women’s Network a specific case where a violation was reported, and EcoKos assisted in the reporting and subsequent action taken.

“The doctor in question, for whom the complaint was made, received a disciplinary measure, and she was very pleased; at the same time, she served as an example for other women to act in the same way if they experience a violation”.

The participating women were very satisfied with the lectures and reported receiving a wealth of information, particularly on contraceptives and family planning.

From the previous project in Fushë-Kosovo, the EcoKos initiative focused primarily on menstrual hygiene and raising awareness about reproductive health.

The large number of unregistered residents in Fushë-Kosovo/Kosovo Polje complicates the operations and efficiency of the Main Family Medicine Center (MFMC) in this municipality. Additionally, the shortage of gynecologists at the Family Medicine Center (FMC), as outlined in the current Administrative Instruction, worsens the situation for Roma, Ashkali, and Egyptian women. Without sufficient finances, they must go to the
University Clinical Center of Kosovo (UCCK), where the queues are often very long, making timely visits difficult.

Through research, the project has highlighted the challenges and opportunities for facilitating access to health care for Roma, Ashkali, and Egyptian women. Presenting the findings at a round table with participants from various fields and influential decision-makers has raised awareness of the problems and challenges these women face in accessing quality health care. Additionally, the advocacy process benefits the citizens of the Municipality of Fushë-Kosovo, including lower secondary school girls and their families.

During the activity at “Selman Riza” Elementary School, lectures were conducted by a psychologist engaged through the project and a doctor from EcoKos Women. These lectures addressed important aspects of menstrual hygiene management, including emotional and physical changes during this period, as well as the significance of maintaining personal hygiene. “Through this activity, we successfully raised awareness among girls about adequate health care and the prevention of reproductive organ diseases in girls aged 12 to 15,” said Shpresa Gosalci.

Another topic discussed was advocacy to ensure that primary schools are supplied with sanitary pads, allowing girls easy access during their menstrual periods.

One significant problem encountered has been the large absence of girls from school when they begin their menstrual cycle, as they do not feel safe attending. Families with minimal or no income struggle to provide sanitary pads.

“Another problem is the bullying that occurs if a pad is found in a girl’s bag, whether from boys or within the classroom,” says Shpresa Gosalci.

The project has raised awareness about the access of Roma, Ashkali, and Egyptian women to health services, the violations they face, and the importance of reporting these violations.

This initiative is supported by the Kosovo Women’s Fund with a grant of €9,915.98, financed by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA). 

30.04.26

Kosovo Hosts RESPONDER Partnership’s First Meeting, Co-Planning Research on Sexual Exploitation and Abuse by Aid Workers and Peacekeepers

30.04.26

From Struggle to Confidence: Supporting Girls in Their Teenage Years

30.04.26

New Paper Monitors Gender Equality in Kosovo’s Public Spending

29.04.26

Justice for survivors of gender-based violence: A success story from the Kosovo Women’s Network

28.04.26

KWN Publishes Policy Paper Urging Recognition and Protection of Personal Assistants for Persons with Disabilities

25.04.26

Advancing Women’s Rights Together: KWN’s 23rd Annual Assembly Reflects on Progress and the Road Ahead

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

17.10.2024

Dear Mr. Konjufca,

On behalf of the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) and as activists committed to women’s rights, we wish to express our deep concern regarding the situation of the technical workers of the Kosovo Assembly, who have been on strike for 32 days.

This impasse has caused us significant distress and anger, showing an unacceptable undervaluation of their contributions.

Today, we strongly urge you, as the chairman of this institution, to take concrete steps to address their demands and find an immediate solution, as it is essential that a resolution is reached.

This issue requires your immediate attention and a responsible response, given your role in the institution where these workers contribute.

We look forward to your prompt actions on this matter.

Sincerely,
Igballe Rogova
Executive Director
Kosovo Women’s Network

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

17.10.24

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

14.10.24

Reaction: KWN calls for an urgent solution to the strike of technical workers of the Assembly

Reaction: KWN calls for an urgent solution to the strike of technical workers of the Assembly

14.10.2024

ENOUGH WITH THE DELAYS – IT’S TIME FOR A SOLUTION!

The Kosovo Women’s Network demands an immediate solution to the strike of the technical workers of the Kosovo Assembly.

The technical workers have entered their fifth week of striking, and still, no solution has been offered, despite numerous calls from civil society and public reactions. This neglect of their demands is unacceptable.

The KWN calls on all responsible actors who have the power to resolve this issue to act immediately! It is clear that promises and empty words are not enough, and concrete steps are undoubtedly needed.

The technical workers are demanding an improvement in their working conditions and an increase in salary from 275 to 550 euros. These are basic and legitimate demands that reflect a minimal standard of dignity in the workplace today. The prolongation of this strike is not only an institutional failure but also an injustice to those who keep our institutions running with their essential work.

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

17.10.24

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

14.10.24

Reaction: KWN calls for an urgent solution to the strike of technical workers of the Assembly

Women’s Economic Empowerment: A Journey of Challenges and Opportunities

11.10.2024

“Women refuse to suffer in silence!”  

Kadire Tahiraj, CPWR

Different colours and motifs—both floral and traditional—bring life to the space where the ‘Center for the Promotion of Women’s Rights’ (CPWR) is located in Drenas. These works are created by women who survived sexual violence during the recent war in Kosovo, and this centre is where they find peace and solace.

This organization, which now operates openly and enjoys ongoing success, has faced many challenges along the way, as Kadire Tahiraj, Executive Director of CPWR, shares. “They used to refer to my organization as a joke.”

In the early years of her work, from 2003 to 2004, when she began identifying victims of sexual violence, she faced many prejudices, a lack of support, and widespread hesitation.

“When we started, it was very difficult. There were no phones, and we would schedule Tuesdays to go to the Health Center and gather under a mulberry tree.”

Kadire Tahiraj passionately showcases the work they promote within the organization’s space. For these women, CPWR is a place where they feel free, relaxed, and can express themselves openly. CPWR organizes activities aimed at helping these women find peace and supporting their social advancement.

The planned activities for this initiative include conducting silver filigree embroidery training for ten (10) days each month. With the participation of ten (10) women in these trainings, they will learn to create various forms of filigree frames. Additionally, painting workshops will also involve ten (10) women.

The women participating in the painting workshops have begun engaging in these activities, which are held twice a week for two consecutive months. A two-day workshop with Shqipe Malushi is planned in rural areas outside the cities, set in a mountainous region.The works created by the women during the activities will be exhibited at the CPWR premises, in the ‘You can help, too’ store, and in all ‘Corners of Courage’ locations.

CPWR continuously supports 393 women by providing psychosocial services, rehabilitation, assistance in completing applications for status recognition, economic empowerment, and health services.

Through her hard work and dedication to helping women who experienced sexual violence during the recent war in Kosovo, Kadire has significantly contributed to the vital role played by the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN). “Thanks to the Network, we have identified all the cases,” she says.

Women have sometimes hesitated to speak out and share their experiences, but Kadira’s efforts have fulfilled their need to tell their stories and be heard. “We have used various methods to spread the word that we are supporting victims of the war, primarily by identifying them through women, as these crimes were committed collectively.”. Now, during the recognition of status, the fact that the rapes were carried out in groups, along with the similarities in the women’s testimonies, can sometimes create complications

Recognition of Status: One of the challenges faced by women who experienced sexual violence during the recent war in Kosovo is the process of completing the application for status recognition, particularly the interviewing stage. Until this point, applicants are identified only by code, keeping their identities confidential. However, the Governmental Commission for recognizing and verifying the status of raped persons during the Kosovo Liberation War in Kosovo now interviews all individuals applying for this status. During these interviews, the questions are often too difficult and overwhelming for these individuals to manage, further complicating the process. Kadire calls for a change in this approach to addressing the trauma of the victims, advocating for alternative methods to prove the crimes they suffered.

Currently, there are 26 rejected cases that CPWR is addressing. Often, the testimonies of these women are met with suspicion, with comments like, “”You are just repeating the same words’,” which downplay and question their experiences. This aspect of the status recognition process is particularly distressing for these women.

In addition to supporting women survivors of sexual violence during the war, CPWR also provides assistance to 17 men, offering them the same services.

Ms. Kadire states that many taboos have been broken and social norms have changed in these countries, leading to the removal of numerous prejudices. “With the recognition of status, the innocence of women is upheld; husbands and family members understand that what happened to them was not their fault.”

With the support of KWN, through a small but significant grant, Kadire began her organization’s work and has consistently received assistance from the Network.

Through core support, CPWR has received a grant in the 19th round, funded by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA). This grant has enabled the organization to support women survivors of sexual violence through the project titled “Supporting Women Survivors of Sexual Violence through Health Education”.

The beneficiaries of this project were women who reported experiencing difficult psychological conditions, gynecological health issues, and other chronic diseases—approximately 30 women members of the organization who are survivors of sexual violence. Each month, 10 women participated in relevant activities as part of the project’s implementation.

Among the activities were informative meetings on breast and uterine cancer, as well as gynecological check-ups conducted for several women, which enhanced their ability to manage both their physical and emotional health.

Through this initiative, CPWR supports the KWN Strategy, specifically in advancing gender equality through the rule of law. Additionally, CPWR has once again received organizational support from the Kosovo Women’s Fund, this time planning various artistic activities aimed at providing a relaxing experience for these women.

The planned activities for this initiative include conducting silver filigree embroidery training for ten (10) days each month. The participation of ten (10) women in these sessions will allow them to create various forms of filigree frames. Additionally, painting workshops will also involve ten (10) women.

The women participating in the painting workshops have begun their activities, which are held twice a week for two consecutive months. A two-day workshop with Shqipe Malushi is also planned in a mountainous area outside the cities in question. The artworks created by these women during the activities will be exhibited at CPWR, in the ‘Help and You’ store, and in all ‘Corners of Courage.’

This initiative is supported by the Kosovo Women’s Fund through a grant of €9,840.00, funded by the Sigrid Rausing Trust.

30.04.26

Kosovo Hosts RESPONDER Partnership’s First Meeting, Co-Planning Research on Sexual Exploitation and Abuse by Aid Workers and Peacekeepers

30.04.26

From Struggle to Confidence: Supporting Girls in Their Teenage Years

30.04.26

New Paper Monitors Gender Equality in Kosovo’s Public Spending

29.04.26

Justice for survivors of gender-based violence: A success story from the Kosovo Women’s Network

28.04.26

KWN Publishes Policy Paper Urging Recognition and Protection of Personal Assistants for Persons with Disabilities

25.04.26

Advancing Women’s Rights Together: KWN’s 23rd Annual Assembly Reflects on Progress and the Road Ahead

Education: A Path to Women’s Independence

09.10.2024

“Women’s Rights Are Human Rights” is the title of the upcoming podcast series produced by the organization SHE Solutions. Over the next few months, ten episodes will feature various personalities who have promoted gender equality and women’s rights in Kosovo.

SHE Solutions has previously developed a podcast series titled Spotlight,featuring eight women who share their life stories as inspiring examples for others. Their voluntary contributions encourage young women and girls to make their own impact. This first edition includes eight podcasts focused on Women, Peace, and Security, aimed at highlighting the contributions of women during Kosovo’s years of resistance.

In the first edition focused on Women, Peace, and Security, the podcast attracted considerable attention, reaching approximately 85,000 viewers through analysis, comments, and distribution.

“I believe we have awakened a segment of society—particularly middle-aged individuals—who feel neglected and think no one is addressing their concerns.”

There have been numerous positive comments from listeners, but one phrase that resonated deeply with Antigona was, “It’s good that you haven’t forgotten us!” This statement prompts a profound reflection on how many people—especially women—have been made to feel alone and overlooked. The realization that we have allowed so many to fall into obscurity is a moment that truly touches you and compels deep introspection.

According to Antigona, these are individuals who have made significant contributions and can still play active roles in society. “I strive not to forget them because there’s a prevailing belief that everything begins with us. No, if we can’t do anything else, we should express our gratitude.”

SHE Solutions, with core support from the KWN’s Kosovo Women’s Fund (KWF), has implemented the project “Promotion of Women in the Security Sector” in its 18th round. Six women from the security sector benefited from this initiative.

The promotion of women in the security sector—both in decision-making and professional roles, including the Kosovo Police and the Kosovo Security Force, as well as within the administration—has been successfully achieved. Their accomplishments have been documented through video productions that enhance the visibility of women’s presence in this sector, and these videos have been shared across all social media platforms of SHE Solutions.

This year, with continued support from KWF and financing from SRT, Antigona discusses a new podcast series she plans to produce by December. The series will feature individuals with extensive professional journeys driven by their desire to foster a more equitable life for women.

Through “Spotlight”, SHE Solutions aims to highlight women who have made significant contributions to our society by sharing their experiences and successes, as they often feel overlooked. The goal is to promote women who have achieved success under exceptional circumstances.

In this edition of the “Spotlight” podcasts, the organization aims to promote women’s rights as fundamental human rights. It emphasizes that women’s rights are not extraordinary; rather, they are basic human rights guaranteed by international conventions, which include the rights to employment, education, and family formation.

“Everything starts with education”, says Antigona. “I believe information is our most powerful weapon. When you know what you can do and what rights you have, you can take action”.

Founded in June 2021, SHE Solutions is primarily dedicated to empowering women in politics and decision-making, as well as other areas. It promotes the work of exemplary women who have achieved success in politics, various institutions, decision-making roles, and business.

This time, SHE Solutions will select individuals—both women and men—who have stories to share, focusing on special themes. These testimonies will be documented by SHE Solutions and stored in the State Archives, with transcriptions available in both Albanian and English.

“This is the issue: society must not forget them. We need to create space for them, especially while they still have the opportunity to contribute”.

Through this project, SHE Solutions contributes to the implementation of the KWN Strategy, focusing on two key points: furthering gender equality through the rule of law and transforming gender norms through education.

This initiative is supported by the Kosovo Women’s Fund with a grant of €10,000, funded by the Sigrid Rausing Trust.

30.04.26

Kosovo Hosts RESPONDER Partnership’s First Meeting, Co-Planning Research on Sexual Exploitation and Abuse by Aid Workers and Peacekeepers

30.04.26

From Struggle to Confidence: Supporting Girls in Their Teenage Years

30.04.26

New Paper Monitors Gender Equality in Kosovo’s Public Spending

29.04.26

Justice for survivors of gender-based violence: A success story from the Kosovo Women’s Network

28.04.26

KWN Publishes Policy Paper Urging Recognition and Protection of Personal Assistants for Persons with Disabilities

25.04.26

Advancing Women’s Rights Together: KWN’s 23rd Annual Assembly Reflects on Progress and the Road Ahead

KWN Statement on the International Day of Non-Violence 

02.10.2024

Today, 2 October, marks the International Day of Non-Violence, a day that arrives as wars and conflicts continue to rage around the world. 

We are thinking of our sisters in Palestine, Ukraine, Lebanon, South Sudan, Uganda, Israel, and beyond. We are thinking of both the victims and the aggressors, as well as those who have been both. We are hoping for another way forward. 

We long for an end to violence. 

We dream of a day when every woman can enjoy a morning coffee or a walk in the park without the threat of violence, whether in the home, on the streets, or from missiles and troops. 

We recall the passive resistance of Kosovo Albanians, who for more than a decade organized underground education, healthcare, and humanitarian aid, despite these being forbidden by the Milosevic-led Serbian regime. We remember the critical role women played as agents of peace, leading this non-violent resistance. We remember how women, by the thousands, took to the streets several times, marching for a peaceful end to Serbian oppression. 

We also remember how this peaceful resistance, like that of our sisters in Serbia, was largely ignored by the international community. Only when Albanians took up arms to defend themselves, their families, and their homes did the world take notice. 

Today, we feel the very real threat of Kosovo’s “frozen” conflict with Serbia potentially reigniting amid the current geopolitical landscape, as international actors either look on or even fan the flames in pursuit of their own political agendas. 

Our power and peaceful resistance to oppression continues to go largely unrecognized, while those in power profit from the military-industrial complex. Trillions of euros, dollars, and other currencies are spent on militarization and weapons. Yet, the neoliberal belief that stronger arms will lead to peace has repeatedly proven false. Weapons lead to more weapons, and violence only begets violence. 

What if, instead of financing weapons, we invested in education, food, healthcare, and climate action—steps that would reduce the need for people to flee their homes? What if, instead of building walls, we helped others build better lives? 

What if, instead of violence, we embraced love? 

This is not utopian, it’s a choice we can make in our everyday lives. Each of us can choose to speak with love, refusing to replicate the aggressive language and violence that surrounds us. 

We can volunteer, support, and vote for political parties that promote social welfare and non-violence, rather than military spending. 

We can recognize the role each of us plays in enabling the continued extraction of resources, like oil, which provides incentives for corporations and politicians to support military campaigns that destabilize countries so they can profit from resources at lower costs. We can choose to stop or significantly reduce our consumption of oil and other resources that fuel such extractive, violent industries. If we refuse to consume, there will be no need to extract and no need for violence. 

We can demand that violence not being committed in our names, and we can stand against violence committed based on nationalistic views, ethnic differences, or gender identities.  

Instead of violence, let’s choose love. 

30.04.26

Kosovo Hosts RESPONDER Partnership’s First Meeting, Co-Planning Research on Sexual Exploitation and Abuse by Aid Workers and Peacekeepers

30.04.26

From Struggle to Confidence: Supporting Girls in Their Teenage Years

30.04.26

New Paper Monitors Gender Equality in Kosovo’s Public Spending

29.04.26

Justice for survivors of gender-based violence: A success story from the Kosovo Women’s Network

28.04.26

KWN Publishes Policy Paper Urging Recognition and Protection of Personal Assistants for Persons with Disabilities

25.04.26

Advancing Women’s Rights Together: KWN’s 23rd Annual Assembly Reflects on Progress and the Road Ahead

Kosovo Women’s Network Continues Research on Improving Public Transport Through a Gender Lens 

01.10.2024

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. 

30.04.26

Kosovo Hosts RESPONDER Partnership’s First Meeting, Co-Planning Research on Sexual Exploitation and Abuse by Aid Workers and Peacekeepers

30.04.26

From Struggle to Confidence: Supporting Girls in Their Teenage Years

30.04.26

New Paper Monitors Gender Equality in Kosovo’s Public Spending

29.04.26

Justice for survivors of gender-based violence: A success story from the Kosovo Women’s Network

28.04.26

KWN Publishes Policy Paper Urging Recognition and Protection of Personal Assistants for Persons with Disabilities

25.04.26

Advancing Women’s Rights Together: KWN’s 23rd Annual Assembly Reflects on Progress and the Road Ahead

KWN Continues Efforts to End Gender-based Violence 

01.10.2024

The Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) team have continued their intensive efforts towards ending all forms of gender-based violence, guided by the KWN strategic Program to Address Gender-based Violence.  

The team has continued their research to inform KWN’s fifth monitoring report on gender-based violence in Kosovo. The report will examine the awareness and attitudes of officials responsible for addressing gender-based violence, including how these have changed since 2021; the extent to which the applicable legal framework related to gender-based violence has been implemented since 2021; and propose evidence-based recommendations for improving the institutional response to gender-based violence in Kosovo. It also seeks to inform monitoring and evaluation of the National Strategy and Action Plan on Domestic Violence, Violence Against Women and Gender Based Violence 2022-2026 and to identify recommendations for the future Strategy and other needed legal amendments. 

The research team has finished more than 100 interviews with more than 16 different institutions, civil society experts and international organizations in eight municipalities. To date, the main challenge has been identifying accurate contact information for institutions at the municipal level and securing interviews with some officials. Now, they are in the process of transcribing interviews, coding, and analysis. The report is expected to be finalized later this year and published in early 2025.  

Meanwhile, Kosovo’s current legal framework pertaining to gender-based violence is in the process of undergoing significant changes. KWN continues to monitor and follow these processes closely.  

In September, Adelina Berisha, Program Manager on Addressing Gender-based Violence, participated in several working group meetings related to the Project Law to amend the Criminal Code, where she advocated KWN’s recommendations for including crimes related to gender-based cyberviolence. KWN also participated in the working group drafting the legal basis for the SOS hotline as per Istanbul Convention requirements; Administrative Instruction for establishing Local Coordination Mechanisms on Domestic Violence; submitted comments on the draft Law on Social Housing; and is following several other processes.  

The KWN team has found the discussions with institutions during working groups to be very fruitful in terms of sharing diverse views, experiences, and obstacles faced in implementing the current legislation. Hearing the very real challenges that prosecutors and judges face has provided KWN with important information on existing obstacles to implementing the legal framework, including those related to socialised gender norms and practices. Such information is important for identifying ways forward, both legally and socially in terms of awareness-raising. 

“We need to think more how we can address traditional norms, for example that value virginity, which may present obstacles to implementing the legal framework and fair access to justice,” Berisha observed based on her experiences in the working groups.  

Meanwhile, the KWN Team has continued providing free of charge counselling on the legal framework and referred cases of gender-based violence for free legal assistance, as well as monitored ongoing court cases related to addressing gender-based violence.  

Also, during September, Berisha also provided several interviews on topics related to GBV and gender issues in general, including on a specific case of sexual harassment at work,  reproductive health and favouring men in managerial positions.  

Overall, KWN had 19 instances of media coverage on gender-based violence this year, this number doesn’t include the reactions of KWN after a specific case.

30.04.26

Kosovo Hosts RESPONDER Partnership’s First Meeting, Co-Planning Research on Sexual Exploitation and Abuse by Aid Workers and Peacekeepers

30.04.26

From Struggle to Confidence: Supporting Girls in Their Teenage Years

30.04.26

New Paper Monitors Gender Equality in Kosovo’s Public Spending

29.04.26

Justice for survivors of gender-based violence: A success story from the Kosovo Women’s Network

28.04.26

KWN Publishes Policy Paper Urging Recognition and Protection of Personal Assistants for Persons with Disabilities

25.04.26

Advancing Women’s Rights Together: KWN’s 23rd Annual Assembly Reflects on Progress and the Road Ahead

FemArt 12: “SISTERHOOD: In Times of War and Peace” 

01.10.2024

The 12th edition of the FemArt Festival, a cornerstone of art and feminist activism in Kosovo, took place from September 25 to 30. This year’s event, held in Prishtina, brought together a diverse array of artists, activists, and professionals from around the world. FemArt 2024 served as a dynamic platform for exploring issues of equality, justice, and women’s empowerment through thought-provoking discussions, captivating performances, and inspiring exhibitions. 

The Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to the FemArt Festival and its mission to promote gender equality and women’s rights. KWN staff were actively involved in numerous festival events, including thought-provoking panel discussions. 

Adelina Berisha, KWN’s Gender-Based Violence Program Manager, contributed her expertise to a panel focused on addressing the pressing issue of femicide in Kosovo. During the discussion, Berisha shed light on the challenges faced by women in the country and highlighted KWN’s ongoing efforts to advocate for feminist agendas through public policy and provide essential support to women across various fields.  

Igballe Rogova, KWN’s Executive Director, played a pivotal role in FemArt 2024 by participating in two significant panel discussions. Drawing on her extensive experience in feminist activism, Rogova emphasized the crucial importance of societal engagement in driving structural changes towards gender equality. 

On September 28, Rogova joined a distinguished panel at the exhibition and launch of the monograph “10 Years of FemArt,” contributing her insights to a celebration of the festival’s enduring impact on feminist movements in Kosovo. 

“I was deeply moved when I first entered this space today. The weight of emotion was so overwhelming that I had to step outside for a moment to collect myself. But I returned… because curator Berat Bajrami honored artists who are no longer with us, such as Sevdije Ahmeti, Burbuqe Berisha, Vjosa Berisha, and Nexhmije Pagarusha, who blazed a trail for activists and artists,” Rogova said of the monograph launch and accompanying exhibition. 

“On the final day of FemArt 2024, a panel moderated by Jeta Xharra brought together a distinguished group of feminist activists: Igballe Rogova, Vjosa Dobruna, Jadranka Milicević, Vjollca Krasniqi, and Danijela Stanojević. The panel reflected on ‘Feminist Activism in the 90s in the Region: Sisterhood in Times of War and Peace,’ sharing powerful stories of building bridges across national, ethnic, and personal boundaries. The panelists emphasized the enduring importance of regional networks established during this time, which continue to play a vital role in advancing feminist causes today.” 

“During the panel, KWN’s Executive Director, Igballe Rogova, shared poignant stories of sisterhood and activism with Serbian women during and after the 90s. She recalled a time when author Julie Mertus first informed her that women in Serbia were protesting for peace and the rights of Albanian women. Initially, Rogova found it difficult to believe: 

‘If you don’t believe me, go and see for yourself… I’ll come with you,’ Julie insisted.” 

Rogova vividly described the weekly protests of Women in Black, who stood silently with signs that declared ‘Albanian women are our sisters.’ She recounted the reactions of passersby, ranging from indifference to hostility. One particularly disturbing incident involved a man who spat in the face of an activist. Rogova recalled the activist’s remarkable response: 

‘When I asked her why she didn’t wipe off the spit, she replied, ‘If I had, he would have thought I noticed it, so I ignored it. He didn’t exist for me.’ We became friends, sisters, and she became my feminist mentor: Lepa Mladenovic,’ Rogova said. 

In the following panel, young feminist activists from Kosovo and Serbia discussed the path that previous generations of feminist activists had paved for them. They spoke candidly about the current challenges they face in peacebuilding in everyday life and across borders. 

“Jelena Memet from the Autonomous Girls’ Center shared her inspiring feminist mottos: ‘always defiant,’ ‘not in our name,’ and ‘don’t let us deceive ourselves.’ Additionally, activist sisters from Ukraine and Palestine shared the harrowing challenges women in their countries face. 

FemArt once again offered a diverse array of activities, from artistic performances, films, and exhibitions to public discussions, all inspired by the overarching themes of gender equality and feminist activism. The festival’s impact on society was undeniable, as it created a space for reflection, collaboration, and raising awareness of issues affecting women and marginalized groups. Through art and numerous debates, FemArt gave voice to women’s experiences and challenges, propelling society towards a more equitable and just future. 

This edition of FemArt underscored the crucial importance of continued activism, solidarity, and cooperation among artists, activists, and civil society to improve the position of women and advance their rights.” 

30.04.26

Kosovo Hosts RESPONDER Partnership’s First Meeting, Co-Planning Research on Sexual Exploitation and Abuse by Aid Workers and Peacekeepers

30.04.26

From Struggle to Confidence: Supporting Girls in Their Teenage Years

30.04.26

New Paper Monitors Gender Equality in Kosovo’s Public Spending

29.04.26

Justice for survivors of gender-based violence: A success story from the Kosovo Women’s Network

28.04.26

KWN Publishes Policy Paper Urging Recognition and Protection of Personal Assistants for Persons with Disabilities

25.04.26

Advancing Women’s Rights Together: KWN’s 23rd Annual Assembly Reflects on Progress and the Road Ahead