Kosovo Women's Network

Kosovar Women Activists Call for EU Support to Reforms towards Peace and Security

20.05.2025

During the annual Brussels Advocacy Week 2025, determined women’s rights activists from Kosovo, and the region, are calling for the European Union (EU) to support the rights and security of women at home. Today, they asked the European Commission (EC) for stronger political support and more focus on gender equality in the forthcoming EC Kosovo Report, which is being prepared by the Directorate-General for Enlargement and the Eastern Neighbourhood (DG ENEST).

Vetone Veliu from the Mitrovica Women Association for Human Rights (MWAHR) focused on the political and security situation in northern Kosovo, particularly the lack of safety for women amid growing political tensions. “When the Dialogue stops, the tensions grow,” she said, referring to the frozen EU-facilitated Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue. She emphasised that women’s voices remain left out of peace talks between Kosovo and Serbia. The Government of Kosovo’s closing of Serb-run institutions, with insufficient prior notice to the local population, has contributed to difficulties for people, particularly for the elderly who struggle to access their pensions and medicine, she said.

Indeed, research by the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) also has shown that due to economic inequalities among women and men, minority women face added barriers accessing transportation and thus pensions, healthcare, and medicine.

Dafina Prekazi Pallaska from the Kosovar Gender Studies Centre (KGSC) expressed concern over continued delays in forming the Government of Kosovo after the February elections. She noted the urgent need to amend electoral laws prior to forthcoming elections, ensuring equal representation of women and men at 50%, as defined by the Law on Gender Equality. She mentioned several laws that the Government has delayed and which the EU should encourage them to adopt urgently with inclusive public consultation processes, including the Labour Law and the Civil Code. She emphasised that the Government must listen to women’s groups when making new laws and be more transparent.

Nicole Farnsworth, KWN Deputy Director and Lead Researcher, spoke about the need to protect women from violence. While praising the Government’s progress on related legislative reforms, she highlighted the need for the EC to focus on implementation, as a Rule of Law issue. She asked the EU to call upon the Government to amend the Criminal Code to include clearer provisions on technology-facilitated gender-based cyberviolence, to establish the Rape Crisis Centre, to establish clear protocols for relevant institutions based on the new legal framework and institutionalise training for them, to improve operations of municipal coordination mechanisms and to budget adequately for social services, all as per the existing legal framework.

Activists also raised concerns regarding the continuing EU measures against Kosovo. “We implore the EU to continue the dialogue,” they said, explaining how discontinuing the political dialogue has undermined progress towards EU Accession. Specifically, this has resulted in civil society, including women’s groups, losing the opportunity to dialogue with the EU and Government via Stabilisation Association Agreement (SAA) Committee and Subcommittee meetings, they said. This hampers civil society monitoring and pressure for progress on reforms, undermining inclusive democratic discussion around reforms. It also leaves space for narratives counter to EU Accession to gain footing, as people have fewer opportunities to see progress via these dialogues, or to see how it is affecting their lives, as civil society used to be able to demonstrate during prior dialogues.

“The solution is to dialogue” and not to discontinue it, they said. Activists warned that without continued political dialogue, the risk exists of growing narratives counter to EU Accession and even conflict. They called on the EU to urgently reinstate the political dialogue with Kosovo, inclusive of diverse civil society organisations.

This advocacy trip was made possible with support from the Kvinna till Kvinna Foundation, funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). KWN has participated in this advocacy work since 2010, MWAHR since 2012 and KGSC since 2012.

As Nicole, Vetone and Dafina reminded actors in Brussels, progress towards EU Accession can only take place with the full engagement of diverse women.

For more information about the issues that they are raising in Brussels this week, see their brief, here:

https://womensnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/FINAL_DG-ENEST-Kosovo-input-2025-1-2.pdf

01.07.25

“The Shirt of Freedom”: A Theater Tour Amplifying Women’s Voices Against Violence

27.06.25

Art, Activism and Healing Flourish at FemArt 2025

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

Women at the Center of Peace – Global Open Day 2025 gathers powerful voices for change

15.05.2025

With an atmosphere full of energy, today at the Global Open Day for Women, Peace and Security Preparations, a series of powerful statements and reflections were given on the role of women in Kosovo’s journey towards peace and security.

Today, May 14, 2025, at the Emerald Hotel in Pristina, this event focused on the vital role of women in building peace and security. This day took place on the eve of the 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325, with the theme: “Women, Peace and Security: Lessons Learned and Ways Forward”.

Caroline Ziadah, Head of UNMIK, emphasized the vital role that women play as heroines and builders during conflicts. She addressed the women present directly, saying: “Progress is yours – more and more girls and women are being educated thanks to you.”

However, she acknowledged that sexual violence and gender-based violence still remain as shadows, but emphasized that such violence is always unacceptable. Ziadah stressed the need for economic empowerment of women so that they can continue to flourish in peace. She also noted the importance of respecting linguistic diversity and that the media should reflect reality without manipulation. “Justice that excludes women is not justice at all,” she declared. Her concluding message was powerful: “When women rise, Kosovo rises.”

The Executive Director of the Agency for Gender Equality, Edi Gusia, reflected on Kosovo’s progress in gender equality, mentioning the establishment of the Agency for Gender Equality in 2005 and the creation of the Action Plan for Resolution 1325 in 2013. Gusia highlighted the 79% success rate in the implementation of activities from the plan, a rare achievement compared to other strategic documents. She mentioned the establishment of a Commission for the verification of the status of victims of sexual violence during the war, the licensing of four NGOs, and Kosovo’s commitment to providing €11.3 million to support survivors.

However, she emphasized the importance of giving Kosovo the opportunity to present the gender equality agenda before the UN CEDAW committee.

The Executive Director of the Kosovo Women’s Network, Igballe Rogova, shared a strong criticism of the way Resolution 1325 has been implemented. She emphasized that although the resolution was created to support women’s organizations, recognizing them as key agents for building peace and stability, those who signed it did not respect it.

Rogova recalled that in the post-war period, the international community often overlooked the inclusion of women. Ironically, many of the meetings organized around this resolution were held without any women present – a painful contradiction for a resolution that has at its core the inclusion and empowerment of women. At that time, one of the strongest allies was Ambassador Chowdhury, who pushed forward Resolution 1325 until it was adopted.

Rogova spoke of the disappointment at the exclusion of women during the Kosovo-Serbia negotiations, mentioning regional initiatives such as the Women’s Coalition for Peace, a coalition between KWN and Women in Black, bringing the perspectives of women who were absent during the negotiations.

Rogova also called for stronger solidarity among women and emphasized several times that international organizations should not compete with local ones, but support and cooperate with them.

“Kosovo institutions should not close their doors to women’s organizations, while women should be more in solidarity with each other,” said Rogova.

Emilija Rexhepi mentioned that women in Kosovo have shown leadership in peacebuilding.

The Executive Director of the NGO Žensko Pravo (Women’s Right), Ružica Simić, emphasized the lack of education and dialogue as essential elements for building a better future.

The Executive Director of the Kosovo Gender Studies Center (KGSC), Luljeta Demolli, emphasized the importance of integrating women’s issues at all levels of the system. She mentioned that Kosovo’s progress serves as a model for the entire region.

Finally, Sanija Murati, Executive Director of the NGO Lady, gave advice to women, especially those from other regions: “Learn the language of the country where you live,” she said. She also spoke about misunderstandings and misinformation about Kosovo and its people in the region, noting that politics often divides everyday life. “In Kosovo, I have no enemies,” she said firmly, emphasizing the power of choice and unity.

Throughout the event, participants also had the opportunity to visit an exhibition of handicrafts made by women, promoting local creativity and entrepreneurship as an important part of peacebuilding.

These voices at the Global Preparatory Open Day presented a picture of the ongoing efforts and extraordinary resilience of the women of Kosovo. The message was clear: continued solidarity, support, and active participation in both local and global platforms will be essential for building sustainable peace and equality.

01.07.25

“The Shirt of Freedom”: A Theater Tour Amplifying Women’s Voices Against Violence

27.06.25

Art, Activism and Healing Flourish at FemArt 2025

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

From Life in Spain to Volunteering in Kosovo

28.04.2025

Can we truly “pack” our entire lives into a suitcase for just a week and begin anew? Anda’s story illustrates how she accomplished precisely that and now dedicates herself to contributing to her country.

Anda Krasniqi is one of the enthusiastic volunteers who joined the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) team in February of this year. She spent a significant part of her life in Spain, raised by two Kosovar parents who had left Kosovo before the war began, and she has always felt a strong connection to her country of origin. “I thank my mother for emphasizing the importance of learning the Albanian language for me; she pushed me to be very connected to the Albanian language and to Kosovo,” Anda said.

When Anda’s mother decided to return to Kosovo to be closer to her family, the trajectory of Anda’s life also changed significantly. Within a short time, she made the decision to return to Kosovo at the age of 18. “Coming to Kosovo and starting my studies here was a colossal change for me,” she recounts.

With the start of her studies at the University of Prishtina, in the Philosophy department, Anda began a new life in Kosovo, socializing and forming a new circle of friends here. “The change I made by returning to Kosovo has been extremely good for me; I have gained so much richness in the social aspect in this country,” Anda added.

Since Spain is one of the countries that still does not recognize Kosovo as an independent state, this was one of Anda’s strongest motivations for leaving the comfort and stability of the life she had built there to return to Kosovo. “I always had to identify with a national identity that I didn’t want. Even though I have the best friends there and they were very much in favor of Kosovo’s independence as a state, it’s about how the state itself identifies you,” Anda explained.

With enthusiasm and curiosity for the work, and energy to contribute to a strong cause, Anda brings a fresh spirit to the Network. She is involved in the “Women, Peace and Security” project, through which she shows that she is also familiarizing herself with different work processes and aspects she was not previously acquainted with. Laws and their functioning, the situation of minority communities in Kosovo, and other important topics are things Anda is learning during her work at the Network.

Anda has an undeniable enthusiasm for contributing to KWN, expressing that each person should feel responsible towards the society they are part of and not remain silent. “It seems to me that each person should have that responsibility towards society… People are being punished for who they are,” she stated.

Over the past three years, Anda has worked as a health insurance consultant, an interesting job that has helped her find a part of herself by developing her communication skills.

She works at KWN several hours a day during the week and enjoys being actively engaged in some activity; she plays tennis as she did as a child and has a passion for painting. She is a film enthusiast and spends part of her time dedicating it to her favorite movies.

Anda has made a big change in her life and has set an excellent example of how passion and commitment can lead to positive and significant changes for society.

The Kosovo Women’s Network continues to call on individuals from all groups and communities, regardless of age and affiliation, to actively engage in strengthening the feminist movement in Kosovo. When more people come 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 scientific researcher, activist, student, or simply someone passionate about human rights, your engagement can make a difference. By joining us, you will have the opportunity to develop new skills, contribute to research, and deepen your understanding of the challenges faced by women in Kosovo, such as gender-based violence, economic inequality, and systemic discrimination.

Over the years, we have engaged at least 392 different 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 and more inclusive feminist movement – a movement that amplifies voices, influences policies, and paves the way for a more just and equal future.

If you wish to contribute as a volunteer, like Anda and our other dedicated volunteers, please contact us at info@womensnetwork.org to learn more about our Volunteer Program.

01.07.25

“The Shirt of Freedom”: A Theater Tour Amplifying Women’s Voices Against Violence

27.06.25

Art, Activism and Healing Flourish at FemArt 2025

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

The Foundation House celebrates a decade of Girls in ICT

25.04.2025

To mark the 10th anniversary of Girls in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and the International Day of Girls in ICT, The Foundation House (formerly IPKO Foundation), a Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) member, organized a powerful conference at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Kosovo campus on April 24^th. Celebrating a decade of inspiring and empowering young women in technology, the event aimed to raise awareness and create a local environment that encourages girls and young women to pursue careers in ICT. In collaboration with RIT Kosovo, The Foundation House has been organizing impactful events for ten years, offering a platform to share success stories, foster networking, and create new opportunities for young women and professionals in the ICT sector.

Ms. Artane Rizvanolli, the Minister of Economy, spoke about the progress made by girls and women pursuing studies in STEM and Energy fields. She highlighted the scholarships offered to encourage more girls and women to enter these areas.

Abetare Gojani, the Executive Director of The Foundation House, spoke about the journey of a decade of growth and impact. She highlighted the major project focused on girls in ICT, an initiative that provides each girl in Kosovo not just the opportunity to use technology, but to develop it further. A decade later, more than 3,000 girls have walked through the doors of The Foundation House. “Today, a decade later we continue to believe that when you believe in a girl, she transforms the world”, she said among other things in her speech. “But despite the progress, the data speaks clearly: today, over 55% of graduates in STEM and ICT fields are women, yet only 3.5% are part of the labour market in these sectors. This is a call to action—because talent has no gender”, said Ms. Gojani.

Çamërie Mazreku, a Software Engineer at Netflix, led an inspiring conversation that filled the room with motivation. Seeing a fellow woman in such a prestigious position at a company like Netflix deeply inspired the girls already pursuing careers in these fields. With a lot of determination and hard work, she said that no matter where you come from, you can always achieve the dreams you have, and that comparison can kill a lot of dreams, as we often have a lot more potential than we think we do.

She said that is important to work and not give up on what you want and invest time and energy in yourself. “Companies invest in people who invest in themselves,” said Mazreku.

The conference continued with a panel discussion: Empowering voices: Youngsters present policy recommendations in STEM and Energy- moderated by Rinora Gojani, the young panellists: Ema Rudi, Florinda Hasani, Ema Nallbani, Shefki Sllamani and Florent Sahiti.

They all shared experiences of the struggles they face as students within the STEM and Energy fields, giving recommendations to institutions and more. One of the problems is the decrease in the number of study hours in STEM and energy fields.

“Anything I can imagine, I should be able to do”, said Florinda when they were asked why they went into studying these fields.

Another panel discussion followed with the topic: Policies and Strategies for supporting youth in STEM and Energy, the panellists Sibel Halimi – Director of Culture at the Municipality of Prishtina, Teuta Sahatqija – Ambassador, Women in Tech Kosovo, also a member of KWN, Laura Kyreziu – Executive Director of Leadership and Growth Council, Vigan Perani – Architect and Urban Planner.

With a changing environment in the fields of STEM and Energy the situation is different now from how it used to be, but we need better collaborations between institutions, the University of Prishtina and businesses, offering jobs to women, including them more in the work force.

Ms. Sahatqija reflected on her past, recalling a time when she was the only female student in her field. She shared how, in our society, it was commonly believed that math was too difficult for women, and that they should pursue something lighter and easier instead.

Continuing with workshops, the conference featured an AI & Cybersecurity Hackathon, Military Activity with Kosovo Security Force officials, and a Drones & GIS Mapping session guided by FSK experts.

The International Girls in ICT at R.I.T Kosovo ended with a job fair, offering the participant a great chance to get familiar with possible places to get to work and encourage them to apply for also give career exposure.

The International day of Girls in ICT at R.I.T Kosovo ended with a job fair, offering the participant a great chance to get familiar with possible places to get to work and encourage them to apply for also give career exposure.

01.07.25

“The Shirt of Freedom”: A Theater Tour Amplifying Women’s Voices Against Violence

27.06.25

Art, Activism and Healing Flourish at FemArt 2025

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

KWN Calls for Improved Attention to Gender Equality in European Commission’s 2025 Kosovo Report

15.04.2025

Gender Equality is a fundamental value of the European Union (EU) and of the Government of Kosovo. To support gender mainstreaming the EU Accession process, the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN), together with its members, provided its annual input for the European Commission (EC) Kosovo Report last week. KWN aims to mainstream gender in each chapter of the Report, towards better reflecting the needs of diverse women, men, girls, and boys in the EU Accession process. KWN provided comments to inform most all chapters, focusing on democracy, public administration reform, judiciary and fundamental rights, police, economy, public procurement and finance, relations between Kosovo and Serbia, health, media, and education.

Related to democracy, KWN emphasised that electoral laws should be amended to require 50% participation of women and men as per the Law on Gender Equality, and political parties should take affirmative actions to promote women’s participation and address gender inequalities. Assembly procedures should include quality control of gender impact analyses for all draft laws and actively counter discriminatory rhetoric. The Government should consult more with grassroots, women, minority and disability rights groups. It should also establish sustained, transparent state funding for diverse civil society organisations (CSOs) and undertake legal amendments enabling tax-deductible donations to civil society. Public administration reform should include affirmative measures for women’s equal participation together with merit-based recruitment; and gender-responsive digitalisation of public services. Gender-responsive budgeting (GRB), as required by the Law on Gender Equality, Sustainable Development Goal indicator 5.c.1, and Public Expenditure and Financial Accountability (PEFA) Gender Framework, needs to be institutionalised in new public finance laws and implemented.

Regarding the judiciary, KWN recalled its recommendations to amend the Criminal Code to more clearly address cyberviolence. Kosovo should ensure solid criminal investigations, improve the quality of indictments and ensure effective criminal procedures, including in cases of gender-based violence. To this end, Kosovo should strengthen cooperation between prosecutors and police; and in the random assignment of cases, ensure judges and prosecutors assigned to gender-based violence cases have specialisation in such cases. As per its commitments, the Government should establish a shelter for LGBTQI+ individuals. The Assembly should adopt the Civil Code to protect same-sex marriage in line with the Constitution and address homophobic rhetoric in the Assembly. Further, Kosovo should improve investigations related to hate crimes and online threats against LGBTQI+ persons, journalists and women’s rights activists.

Related to the economy, based on KWN’s research, the Government should implement gender-responsive measures to address informality, including formalising informal employment based on gender analysis. Kosovo must urgently adopt a new Labour Law in line with the EU Work-Life Balance Directive to address women’s concerningly low labour force participation. Towards the EU Barcelona Objectives and its commitments, the Government needs to improve early education and pre-school availability, which can enhance children’s educational outcomes and women’s labour force participation, while involving gender-transformative education. In education, curricula should be further revised to address gender stereotypes.

Related to Kosovo-Serbia relations, women have remained underrepresented in the Dialogue. The Government should communicate more regularly with diverse women, men and women’s rights CSOs related to peace processes, as per the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda.

These and other recommendations submitted to the EU aim to ensure that gender equality is meaningfully integrated across all sectors in Kosovo and the EU Accession process, promoting inclusive reforms that address the needs of diverse women, men, girls and boys. Recommendations were prepared together with the Kosovo Gender Studies Center, Organisation of People with Muscular Dystrophy of Kosovo, The Network of Roma, Ashkali, and Egyptian Women Organizations of Kosovo, and NGO It’s Worth Living.

01.07.25

“The Shirt of Freedom”: A Theater Tour Amplifying Women’s Voices Against Violence

27.06.25

Art, Activism and Healing Flourish at FemArt 2025

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

A Tapestry of Resilience: KWN’s Annual Assembly Celebrates a Year of Unwavering Progress and Honors Courageous Voices

12.04.2025

Pristina, April 12, 2025 – The air in Hotel Emerald, Pristina, hummed with the quiet strength of a movement. The Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) had gathered its forces – its dedicated members, steadfast partners, and passionate advocates – for its 22nd Annual Assembly. This wasn’t just a meeting; it was a powerful recounting of a year etched with progress, a moment to collectively draw breath and honor the indomitable spirit of those who tirelessly champion women’s rights and gender equality.

Ariana Qosaj-Mustafa, the guiding force as Chair of the KWN Board, set the tone with words that resonated deep within the room. “The Network, is far more than an organization. It is a living, breathing movement fueled by shared knowledge, hard-won experience, and unwavering action. We are the voice for the women who are too often relegated to the margins, whose stories are either unheard or, worse, told by those who cannot truly understand the contours of their lives.”

The presence of former President Atifete Jahjaga added a layer of profound significance. Her words were a testament to KWN’s enduring impact. “For years, this Network has been a beacon of hope, relentlessly pursuing justice to ensure that every woman and girl in Kosovo has an equal chance – in healthcare, in the workplace, in the very fabric of their lives,” she affirmed. “You have cultivated a deep well of trust among women, fostering the unwavering belief that an equal and just existence is not a distant dream, but an achievable reality. You have shown us, with unwavering dedication, that a society founded on fairness, equality, and the complete absence of discrimination is not just a vision, but a tangible possibility.”

The heart of the assembly beat with the personal narratives shared by three remarkable KWN members. Their stories weren’t just anecdotes; they were powerful testaments to the transformative impact of the Network’s support, particularly in the nascent stages of their activism.

Kadire Tahiraj, the resolute Executive Director of the Center for the Protection of Women’s Rights in Drenas, painted a vivid picture of the movement’s early days, anchored by the unforgettable Igballe Rogova and the unwavering KWN team. “They instilled in us an unyielding spirit, teaching us to stand firm against any obstacle in our pursuit of a new and equitable society,” she recounted. “When we dared to open our Center in 2012, at a time when the wounds of war were still raw and the issue of sexual violence a deeply entrenched taboo, Igballe and the Network were our unwavering allies. Their support was instrumental in reaching survivors, offering solace and a path towards healing. Because of KWN, countless women found access to vital healthcare, pathways to economic independence, and the crucial embrace of emotional support.”

Ganimete Sava, a visionary artist with disabilities and the driving force behind the “Art Without Limit” festival, spoke of KWN’s early embrace of her dream. “KWN didn’t just offer support; they were the very first to believe in our vision,” she shared, her words radiating gratitude. “Through their connections, we’ve transcended local boundaries, becoming part of a global tapestry of festivals, earning international acclaim and achieving successes we once only imagined.”

Nevenka Rikallo, the determined Director of “Ruka Ruci,” underscored the profound strength found in unity. “Today, we stand together, a powerful testament to the fact that our collective voice, the unified strength of 140 active women’s NGOs across Kosovo, is our greatest asset,” she declared with conviction. “The Network serves as the vital thread that binds us, amplifying our voices as we fight for the fundamental rights of women – for freedom, for equal opportunities, irrespective of ethnicity. We extend our deepest gratitude for everything, especially for the lifeline of support in establishing the shelter, a sanctuary for those most vulnerable to the insidious grip of domestic violence.”

The assembly reached a poignant crescendo with the presentation of the annual “Sevdije Ahmeti” award, a tribute to unwavering dedication. This year, the honor was shared by two extraordinary women: Marta Prekpalaj, recognized for her courageous protection of women and children in the tumultuous years before the war, and Kadire Tahiraj, celebrated for her tireless advocacy for survivors of wartime sexual violence.

“Every step we have taken, every victory we have achieved, has been a collective endeavor,” affirmed Marta Prekpalaj, her words echoing the spirit of the Network.

Kadire Tahiraj, holding the award with quiet dignity, dedicated it to those whose voices she has amplified for so long. “This award,” she declared, “belongs to every survivor of sexual violence during the war, a tribute to the enduring memory of Mrs. Sevdije Ahmeti, who was their courageous voice when so many remained silent.”

The Executive Director of the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN), Igballe Rogova, recalled and shared moments from women’s activism, from the 1990s until today, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and mutual support among women.

Beyond the powerful stories and heartfelt honors, the assembly also served as a crucial platform for reflection and future planning. The KWN staff presented a transparent overview of the past year’s triumphs and tribulations, laying out a clear roadmap for the work ahead in 2025. The members, the very heart of the Network, actively engaged in shaping its future, approving the 2024 Annual Report and the 2025 Work Plan, and voting to embark on the important task of crafting KWN’s next strategic vision.

As the day drew to a close, two new and passionate voices were welcomed to the KWN Board: Gjyljeta Mushkolaj and Maria Berishaj-Sylejmani, elected by the collective wisdom of the members. The Network also paused to express its profound gratitude to the outgoing Board members, Ariana Qosaj-Mustafa and Zana Hoxha, for their exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and invaluable contributions that have shaped KWN into the formidable force it is today.

The stories shared, the honors bestowed, and the plans laid out at the 22nd Annual Assembly painted a powerful picture of resilience, unity, and unwavering commitment. The Kosovo Women’s Network continues its vital work, weaving a tapestry of progress, thread by courageous thread, towards a future where equality is not just an aspiration, but a lived reality for every woman in Kosovo.

01.07.25

“The Shirt of Freedom”: A Theater Tour Amplifying Women’s Voices Against Violence

27.06.25

Art, Activism and Healing Flourish at FemArt 2025

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

Activists to Assess Costs of Supporting Women, Children Survivors of Violence

04.04.2025

How much does it cost to help women and children who have suffered violence? This is what seven women’s rights organisations from the Western Balkans (WB) have partnered to learn through a joint initiative that aims to support WB states in better budgeting to help women and children survivors of violence. All WB states have committed to implementing the Istanbul Convention, including Kosovo. However, several specialised services required by the IC are not yet financed adequately by WB states. This can contribute to a lack of access to important services, poor quality services, recidivist violence and even femicide (the murder of women because they are women).

On 1-4 April 2025, activists and researchers from six women’s rights civil society organisations (WCSOs) across the WB gathered for a workshop in Shkoder, Albania. Experts from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia joined. Lawyers, sociologists, psychologists and economists, among others contributed their expertise, collaborating to finalise the shared methodology. The Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) facilitated the discussion, having drafted the methodology based on prior experience with similar studies like At What Cost?.

Kosovo has several best practices to share, having succeeded in establishing sustained financing for women’s shelters throughout the country, in close collaboration with KWN members, shelters and the government. Yet, the IC calls for several additional services to be state financed, which Kosovo lacks, such as a Rape Crisis Centre, adequate and accessible psychological counselling for diverse women and long-term rehabilitation and reintegration support, among others.

The forthcoming research aims to inform evidence-based advocacy to relevant institutions for adequate budget allocations, particularly for medium-term budget frameworks and annual budgets, starting from 2026. Providing comprehensive rehabilitation and integration services to survivors of gender-based violence is essential for healing, wellbeing and prevention of recidivist violence.

During the workshop, KWN Deputy Director and Lead Researcher Nicole Farnsworth presented the research methodology, which sparked lively discussions among project partners about the best approaches to implement it. Discussions focused on the distinct circumstances of each partner country, its laws and governance structures; and determining which social services to examine based on IC requirements and Council of Europe Minimum Standards.

Between discussions, partners enjoyed the opportunity to network with each other, explore the city of Shkodër, tour Shkodër Castle and dine together at Arti Zanave[Art of Ferries], a traditional restaurant that supports the WCSO Hapa të Lehtë [Light Steps]. This women’s center focuses on empowering women, including violence survivors, with social, legal, health and economic services. The Executive Director, Denada Shpuza, who founded the center and the restaurant, shared the inspiring story of how it came to be. Faced with financial sustainability challenges and project-based funding limitations for supporting the shelter for women survivors, they decided to create a restaurant staffed by women, featuring dishes made with produce cultivated by local women. The restaurant also sells handmade jewelry and homemade goods, with all proceeds benefiting the center and its mission to support women.

In coming months, partners will conduct research in all six WB countries, producing country-specific reports and a regional analysis on the availability, funding and costs of specialised services for survivors. These findings will provide concrete evidence to inform better government budget allocations in 2026 and beyond.

The workshop marked the continuation of WCSOs’ collective efforts to strengthen services for gender-based violence survivors across the region. Through research, advocacy, experience-sharing and partnership, the Action aims to bring meaningful and lasting changes for survivors to access better quality services, sustainably supported by the state, while drawing from WCSOs and activists’ expertise.

This research is part of the Action “Institutionalising Quality Rehabilitation and Reintegration Services for Violence Survivors II”, funded by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA). Partners enjoyed having the opportunity to liaise with Irene Novotny, Programme Manager from ADA Austria and Elona Fana, Programme Manager, ADA Albania who joined part of the meeting.

01.07.25

“The Shirt of Freedom”: A Theater Tour Amplifying Women’s Voices Against Violence

27.06.25

Art, Activism and Healing Flourish at FemArt 2025

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

Shaping Change: A Swedish Political Scientist Contributes at KWN

28.03.2025

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.

01.07.25

“The Shirt of Freedom”: A Theater Tour Amplifying Women’s Voices Against Violence

27.06.25

Art, Activism and Healing Flourish at FemArt 2025

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

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

28.03.2025

Illegal weapons poses a significant threat to the security of our society, especially to the lives of women. The recent killings in Kosovo demonstrate that illegal weapons are widespread and endanger citizens’ lives every day, creating insecurity within Kosovan society.

The Kosovo Women’s Network expresses deep concern over the increasing cases of murders and violence against women, where illegal firearms are often involved. The killing of women, which frequently occurs due to the use of illegal weapons, is a serious issue that demands immediate action from the relevant institutions. Acts of violence and murders linked to unlicensed firearms reflect the state’s failure to guarantee safety and justice for its citizens, particularly for women.

We call on all responsible institutions to take immediate and concrete measures to confiscate illegal weapons and penalize those who possess them. The strict enforcement of the Law on Weapons, including regulations on threats to public order and security, as well as thorough assessments of the psychological and physical capacity of individuals seeking firearm licenses, must be non-negotiable. Additionally, monitoring and controlling the black market for arms trafficking is equally essential.

This request is urgent and necessary to ensure a safe and just society for all, especially for women, who are often victims of this phenomenon. As the Kosovo Women’s Network, we demand immediate action from institutions to prevent this dangerous trend, which continues to claim the lives of our citizens. The safety of all individuals, particularly women, is a fundamental right that must be protected at all costs.

This is an obligation for our institutions, which must ensure that every individual lives in a safe and violence-free environment. We remain committed to advocating for justice and security for all women and citizens of Kosovo.

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

Rogova’s Call to Action: Together, Donors, Civil Society Make Change Happen

28.03.2025

As part of its Open Society event series, GIZ organised a Voices of Change Talk on March 19 that engaged inspiring women in sharing their experiences, challenges, and insights related to addressing gender biases.

The event, held in honor of Women’s Month, featured a dynamic lineup of speakers, including Igballe Rogova, Executive Director of the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN). Each speaker engaged the audience in a storytelling format, highlighting ongoing struggles in furthering gender equality and the crucial role that institutions like GIZ can play in advancing women’s rights and gender equality.

Rogova, a lifelong advocate for women’s rights, captivated the audience with stories from her decades of activism. Drawing from her experience leading KWN, she shared firsthand accounts of struggles faced by the women’s movements, including the growing anti-gender movement and accompanying insufficient funding.

A key theme in Rogova’s talk was the importance of collaboration between funders and civil society organisations. She stressed that funders must not only provide financial support but also listen to and engage meaningfully with local women’s organisations when designing new initiatives so that they address real, priority needs. She called for funders to consult women’s rights activists, not just as beneficiaries but as partners in shaping policies and programs. Political support and cooperation, she emphasised, are just as vital as financial assistance in sustaining long-term change. And everyone has a role to play in making this change happen.

GIZ’s commitment to gender equality is not new. KWN and GIZ have a long history of collaboration towards achieving their shared aims of furthering gender equality. Among other actions, this has included working together towards institutionalising gender-responsive budgeting in close partnership with the Government of Kosovo. For example, KWN, GIZ, the Agency for Gender Equality in the Office of the Prime Minister, and the Kosovo Institute for Public Administration collaborated to create and adopt the first training curriculum for public servants on how to implement gender-responsive budgeting obligations in the Law on Gender Equality, based on best international practices. They also proposed content for the annex on gender-responsive budgeting, required by the Ministry of Finance in the budget circular to accompany mid-term and annual budgets.

KWN looks forward to continuing our collaboration with GIZ in the future.

01.07.25