Kosovo Women's Network

KWN Supports MWAHR’s Transformative Budgeting Initiative

10.08.2023

The Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) has signed a contract with its member organisation Mitrovica Women Association for Human Rights (MWAHR) for a new initiative. This initiative aims to engage men, women, girls and boys as full and equal partners in government planning, programming and budgeting. The project is titled “Gender budgeting, a transformative budget tool for municipal institutions”.

According to MWAHR, well-planned gender budgeting considers the needs and demands of men, women, girls and boys, enabling the development, growth and economic prosperity of a country.

During their initiative, MWAHR will work closely with government institutions, including the Municipality Assembly of South Mitrovica, NGOs, men, women, girls, boys, and the media. They will conduct numerous meetings involving these interest groups ensuring the participation of individuals from minority ethnic groups and people with disabilities residing in South Mitrovica. Furthermore, MWAHR will monitor the work of government institutions and the Assembly of the Municipality of South Mitrovica. They will actively engage in meetings related to the municipal budget, conveying information about citizens’ needs, demands, and budgetary recommendations.

Vetone Veliu, the executive director of MWAHR emphasized the importance of gender responsive budget.

“Through the support from KWN, which consistently stands by women and women’s organizations, we will engage in raising women’s awareness of the importance of women’s participation in decision-making processes and in the meetings that the municipality organizes. We will advocate municipal officials for the importance of implementing gender-responsive budgeting and taking into consideration the demands and needs of women during the drafting of the annual budget, always taking into account the priorities. The relevant municipal directorates which will be monitored during the information sessions will have the opportunity to show transparency about the expenditure of public funds, but also the implementation of gender equality”.

MWAHR’s objectives include:

Increasing the participation of women in public hearings that the municipality organizes to receive recommendations for the annual budget; and
Increasing the opportunity to make the municipal government feel responsible for its commitments to gender equality, as well as increasing the transparency of municipal institutions regarding municipal budgets, which must address diverse women’s and men’s needs.

This initiative is part of the Gender Budget Watchdog Network’s action, supported by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida).

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From Health Education to Lasting Support for Survivors of Sexual Violence

KWN Congratulates and Supports the Anibar and Dokufest Festivals

09.08.2023

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The Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) congratulates and supports the two festivals, Anibar and Dokufest, for their focus on the topics of Queer and Transgender issues, as well as their support for LGBTIQ+ individuals. The themes addressed by these festivals this year represent significant strides towards promoting awareness and acceptance of human rights, gender diversity, and the expression of Queer and Transgender identities. What Anibar and Dokufest have brought to Kosovo this year is a cultural and artistic initiative that fosters open dialogue, cultivates an open and equitable society, and raises awareness about the rights and needs of LGBTIQ+ community.

For the first time in Kosovo, Anibar and Dokufest initiated a public dialogue about the rights of Queer and Transgender individuals at the local level. Without a doubt, the theme chosen by these two festivals this year has sparked numerous reactions, to the extent that it even resulted in the removal of the mural of the Anibar Festival in “Kosharka”. Nevertheless, KWN expresses gratitude to and stands by Anibar and Dokufest for their presentation of “Love” and the performance at Dokunight, events that sparked local-level discussions in public spaces, showcasing their determination to challenge patriarchal norms.

In a patriarchal society where, traditional norms are resistant to change, festivals and civil society attempts to bring about change. However, Members of Parliament (MPs) exacerbate this situation by expressing disapproval of the Civil Code and employing hate speech during parliamentary sessions. This kind of language, when utilized in such contexts, becomes normalized and is unfortunately deemed acceptable by the public. This acceptance is evident through the presence of graffiti and other actions expressing hate speech targeting the LGBTIQ+ Community. KWN remains committed to advocating for the revision of the Civil Code as a step towards constructing a society that embodies equality and tolerance.

28.03.25

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Press Release – Recommendations for the Kosovo Parliament

05.11.24

Response to Klan Kosova – Do Not Promote the Perpetrators

04.11.24

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

31.10.24

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

17.10.24

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

Meet Hana, the KWN Intern Who Aims to Strengthen the Role of Women in Society Through Designs

07.08.2023

Hana Murati, 20 years old from Prishtina, reflects enthusiasm and determination as she balances her studies in design and political science. While Hana’s love for design began as a child exploring combinations of colors, shapes, and textures to create something beautiful, today she has decided to advance an important cause through design – empowering women and promoting their rights.

Hana, the new intern at the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN), has decided to join us using design as a tool to reach a wide audience in raising awareness for the protection of women’s rights. She cites three reasons why she made this decision.

“First, the Kosovo Women’s Network is a powerful organization dedicated to promoting women’s rights and values. Working in such an organization, while combining it with design, is a perfect match for me. Second, this practice is a great opportunity to create projects and visually communicate important messages. Thirdly, I feel inspired by the aim and mission of the organization because it has a direct impact on my society and community,” says Hana.

Hana began her studies in political science, with a sense of responsibility to influence positive changes in society. However, not seeing herself involved in traditional politics, she believes that the interweaving of design and work at the KWN will enable her to have a more concrete impact on society.

“Design is a powerful tool to raise the voice and raise awareness about these issues because it is a language that everyone speaks. There are no linguistic or cultural limitations to communicating through design. Through images, colors, and graphic elements, we can reach a wide audience and encourage them to participate in the feminist cause and protect the rights of women and girls,” she says.

Hana was selected among other candidates for her ideas, energy, motivation, and desire to work in the Network.

“Everyone who becomes part of the Network for practical work is involved in concrete tasks. This, in addition to valuing their involvement, at the same time creates space to raise their capacities and develop further in the fields that interest them. Many of the girls who were initially involved through practical work continue to be part of the Network’s staff in various positions,” says Zana Rudi, Program Manager at KWN.

Hana hopes that her engagement in KWN will help her grow in the professional field and expand her horizons, as the organization has a very powerful role and can initiate significant changes that benefit girls and women.

“During this internship, I will learn and grow, being inspired by the awareness and efforts of women who fight for their rights every day. I will meet new people, dedicated and motivated professionals who share the same goal, creating a network that will empower us all to make big changes. For me, this internship is an important journey to discover my potential and understand what role and impact I can have in this field,” Hana emphasizes.

We wish Hana a great journey at KWN as we believe that with her creativity, determination, and alignment with a meaningful cause, she is well on her way to making a significant impact in advocating for women’s rights and promoting gender equality in Kosovo and beyond.

Hana’s commitment to KWN was made possible by the international non-profit organization focused on community service, especially for women, Altrusa. This organization aims to empower young women in fields where they are underrepresented.

03.09.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Ministry of Internal Affairs

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Kosovars Becoming More Aware of Gender-Based Violence and Reporting Mechanisms

01.09.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Ministry of Justice

30.08.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Prosecution Council

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KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Ministry of Finance, Labour and Transfers

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From Health Education to Lasting Support for Survivors of Sexual Violence

KWN Welcomes the Life Sentence Against Dardan Krivaqa; Expresses Concern Over the Light Sentence for Arbër Sejdiu

04.08.2023

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Pristina, August 4, 2023

KWN applauds the verdict of the Basic Court in Ferizaj, sentencing Dardan Krivaqa to life imprisonment for the murder of Marigona Osmani.

However, KWN believes that the 15-year prison sentence imposed on Arbër Sejdiu is insufficient given the gravity of the offense and its consequences. KWN contends that, in accordance with the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kosovo, a more appropriate sentence would have been 25 years of imprisonment.

KWN will review the decision of acquittal in the rape indictment and will closely monitor the case in subsequent proceedings to ensure that the verdict of the Basic Court against Dardan Krivaqa remains unchanged.

KWN continues to offer its support and cooperation to victims of gender-based violence, providing free legal counseling and facilitating referrals to relevant institutions. If you require free legal assistance in cases of gender-based violence or know someone who does, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at the following number: 048 105 800.

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

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31.10.24

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

KWN Celebrates Life of Feminist Activist Cathy Frischmann

03.08.2023

Cathy Frischmann first visited Kosovo in 2004, together with her daughter Julie and close friend Sue Farnsworth, whose daughter (Nicole) was working with KWN. Cathy toured Kosovo, met KWN member organizations, and danced with us. She visited again in 2019. Cathy clearly loved Kosovo, its women, its activists, and our work.

Upon returning to her then hometown of Pocatello, Idaho, USA, she organized a guest lecture by KWN Executive Director Igballe Rogova at the local Idaho State University, providing a unique opportunity for Idahoans to learn about Kosovo, its history, struggles. independence and present-day situation. Cathy built unique bridges by creating spaces for sharing knowledge.

Cathy later moved to Corvallis, Oregon, where she was involved in Altrusa, an international non-profit organization focused on community service, particularly for women. In her life and work, she was exemplary to the organisation’s mission, ever “confident, inspiring, and caring”. Together with the Corvallis Altrusa Branch, she led local community fundraising efforts for KWN since 2017, raising thousands of euros to support women’s rights activists in Kosovo.

“She believed in young women’s empowerment and invested in KWN to empower more women in various fields, ranging from law to public relations to addressing gender-based violence,” said Rogova.

With Cathy’s leadership, Altrusa purposefully supported four young Kosovar women with paid internships at KWN. She was well aware that, still in 2021, more young women were unemployed (47%) than young men (35%), and only 7% of young Kosovar women were officially employed, due in part to gender-based discrimination in hiring, as KWN’s research has shown. Indeed, the fields that Altrusa has supported have been areas where few women are involved, like law. Cathy knew that young women needed extra support in these areas, affirmative measures, to enter the workforce and contribute to a more gender balanced labour force in areas where women historically have been underrepresented.

For these young women, Altrusa’s support enabled them to gain experience, enter the labour force and secure long-term employment. Meanwhile, Altrusa supported KWN with extra human resources and expanding the feminist movement in Kosovo.

“We will be forever grateful to her,” Rogova said. “We will remember her positive feminist approach, her solidarity and her leadership. She strongly believed in supporting the women’s movement through the involvement of younger generations.” Cathy saw youth as essential to the women’s movement and its future, and she actively supported this.

A feminist, human rights defender, supporter of women in politics through the League of Women Voters, chef, botanist, gardener, hiker, biker, and so much more…. Cathy loved life and committed her life to defending the rights and lives of others.

Yesterday, 2 August 2023, Cathy passed away following a ferocious fight against cancer. She will be sorely missed by her family, friends and all of us at KWN. Her spirit, persistent resolve, empowerment of others and continuous giving remain an inspiration to all of us and live on in our work.

03.09.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Ministry of Internal Affairs

01.09.25

Kosovars Becoming More Aware of Gender-Based Violence and Reporting Mechanisms

01.09.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Ministry of Justice

30.08.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Prosecution Council

29.08.25

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29.08.25

From Health Education to Lasting Support for Survivors of Sexual Violence

“Breaking Barriers on Stage and Beyond: Meribane Shala’s Impact on Theater and Women’s Emancipation”

01.08.2023

Meribane Shala stands out as one of the rare actresses who, right after the Second World War, entered the theater scene, leaving an ineradicable mark as an exceptional actress. She played a pivotal role in shaping the history of theater in Kosovo, alongside the limited number of fellow female performers, all of whom contributed significantly to its establishment and growth.

At the time when the Theater was founded in Pristina, she was a student, but she was invited to join the theater troupe. Although patriarchal mentality prevailed, it was her brother, the well-known actor Abdurrahman Shala, who encouraged her to become a woman who makes her own life decisions, without being influenced by what others say.

Meribane, driven by her innate talent, wholeheartedly embraced the stage. Despite her young age, she remained unfazed by the cold stage, the challenging rehearsal conditions, or the tours across Kosovo, where the actors traveled alongside the stage props for their performances, all thanks to her unwavering commitment.

Because there were very few actresses at that time, Meri, as she was called by her colleagues, got to play male roles in both Albanian and international plays. She even helped set up a ‘small stage’.”

Many actors came and went, seeking the warmth of a family, as most of them were not from Pristina. Meri played diverse roles, from a 70-year-old woman to a bride, a mother-in-law, a shoemaker’s shopkeeper, a student before a shooting, and a woman suffering domestic abuse. Through these roles, she acquired her first wrinkles, which reflected her inner experiences, as she was always destined to be the best.

“Shani Pallaska, one of the early actors at the Provincial People’s Theater in Pristina, praised Meribane Shala, saying, ‘From her second or third performance, beyond playing young girls, she embraced every role, even that of elderly women. Nobody could tell she was just a 16-17-year-old girl; she handled every role, whether small or leading, with remarkable success.'”

Meanwhile, actress Leze Qena remarked, ‘Anyone who witnessed Meribane’s performances knows she acted with her whole heart. Those who missed it missed out on something special.’ Meribane was also a highly talented cyclist, winning numerous competitions in Kosovo. After migrating with her family and others who were persecuted by the Serbian regime in the challenging post-war years, she briefly lived with a family in Durrës, Albania. Later, she settled in Pristina until her passing in 1956. Despite her short life, she left an indelible mark on the theater scene, living only 24 years, having been born in 1932 and passing away in 1956.

03.09.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Ministry of Internal Affairs

01.09.25

Kosovars Becoming More Aware of Gender-Based Violence and Reporting Mechanisms

01.09.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Ministry of Justice

30.08.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Prosecution Council

29.08.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Ministry of Finance, Labour and Transfers

29.08.25

From Health Education to Lasting Support for Survivors of Sexual Violence

KWN Supports Journalists in the Protest “Democracy Dies in Darkness”

31.07.2023

The Women’s Network of Kosovo has shown its support for the protest called by the Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AJK). The protest is in response to the suspension of Klan Kosova’s business certificate by the Ministry of Industry, Entrepreneurship, and Trade.

Dozens of journalists and activists from civil society in Kosovo gathered on Monday, July 31, in Pristina’s main squares to express their opposition to a decision made by the Kosovo authorities. This decision could potentially lead to the closure of the private national television station, Klan Kosova. Their rallying motto is “Democracy dies in darkness.”

The protest held significant symbolism for its organizers. As the clock struck 12, the march commenced with the accompaniment of whistles, heading towards the Government building.

Upon reaching the Government building, media workers joined the guardians of free speech by leaving their equipment behind, offering their support to their colleagues from Klan Kosova.

The Constitution of Kosovo and the current legislation in force guarantee the freedom of the media in the country. Journalists and civil society have criticized the Government of Kosovo’s decision, stating that it violates the fundamental values enshrined in the Constitution and amounts to an institutional attack on democracy and free speech. Such an approach is considered unacceptable and contrary to the principles of democratic societies.

03.09.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Ministry of Internal Affairs

01.09.25

Kosovars Becoming More Aware of Gender-Based Violence and Reporting Mechanisms

01.09.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Ministry of Justice

30.08.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Prosecution Council

29.08.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Ministry of Finance, Labour and Transfers

29.08.25

From Health Education to Lasting Support for Survivors of Sexual Violence

KWN and EcoKosWomen Signed a Contract to Strengthen Women’s role in Addressing Energy, Food, and Environmental Crises

31.07.2023

Today, we signed a contract with our member organization, EcoKosWomen, which will work towards strengthening the role of women in solving energy, food, and environmental crises.

EcoKosWomen’s initiative, “Putting Women at the Center of Climate Change Solutions”, will focus on promoting awareness of energy usage, with an emphasis on helping women adopt a gender-oriented approach to saving energy in their homes. With the grant amounting to €7,998, EkoKosWomen aims to employ a gender-focused strategy to address the energy, food, and environmental crises within a one-year timeframe.

On this occasion, the Executive Director of KRG, Igballe Rogova, praised the commitment of member organizations to advance the right causes, particularly in strengthening the role of women in society.

Magbule Hyseni, the Director of EcoKosWomen, highly appreciates the opportunities provided by KWN, not only today but also in the past. She stated that with the latest grant, they will do their best to raise women’s awareness as much as possible in the fields in which they work daily.

“They play a major role in the production of food on farms, as well as in its use and preparation for the family. The project will follow a gender approach, wherein women will be made aware of the use of local products in home kitchens, which will also address the food crisis. Moreover, concerning the environmental crisis, women are pivotal in environmental care, as they encourage a deeper connection between people and the environment.”

Further, EcoKosWomen plans to conduct a “Gender assessment of budget beneficiaries analysing the policies and expenditures of the Ministry of Environmental, Spatial Planning, and Infrastructure, towards proposing recommendations for improving the implementation of gender-responsive budgeting by this Ministry, in accordance with the requirements of the Law on Gender Equality in Kosovo. This initiative is part of the Gender Budget Watchdog Network’s action, supported by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida).

In December of last year, EcoKosWomen received a special recognition from the National Consultative Commission for Human Rights in France. This recognition was given to Ms. Magbule Hyseni to encourage the quality and importance of the EcoKosWomen project, aimed at facilitating access to hygienic protection for women and girls, and promoting and protecting human rights and gender equality in general. KWN is proud to be continuing our cooperation with EcoKosWomen.

03.09.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Ministry of Internal Affairs

01.09.25

Kosovars Becoming More Aware of Gender-Based Violence and Reporting Mechanisms

01.09.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Ministry of Justice

30.08.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Prosecution Council

29.08.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Ministry of Finance, Labour and Transfers

29.08.25

From Health Education to Lasting Support for Survivors of Sexual Violence

Norma Association Raises Awareness for Free Legal Aid

28.07.2023

The Norma Lawyers Association, a member organization of the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN), held a round table in collaboration with representatives from various organizations offering free legal aid. The primary objective of this table was to enhance access to justice for women and girls and to assist groups and cases in need of free legal aid.

The central goal of Norma is to ensure the utmost respect for human rights, as guaranteed by the laws of Kosovo, along with adherence to international norms and standards.

“During the round table, Norma and the participating NGOs reaffirmed their commitment to upholding human rights within the framework of Kosovo’s laws and international standards. Additionally, the representative from the Agency for Legal Aid provided insights into their cooperation with NGOs that provide legal aid and the Agency’s inclusion within the Ministry of Justice,” said Valbona Salihu, the Executive Director of Norma.

The members of Norma expressed appreciation for the support received from KWN, describing it as a valuable opportunity for organizational rejuvenation and the continuous provision of free legal aid. Furthermore, this support allows Norma to benefit from over twenty years of experience and expertise in the field.

This activity was made possible through the core support provided within the framework of the 18th round of the Kosovo Women’s Fund (KWF) and financially supported by the Sigrid Rausing Trust.

03.09.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Ministry of Internal Affairs

01.09.25

Kosovars Becoming More Aware of Gender-Based Violence and Reporting Mechanisms

01.09.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Ministry of Justice

30.08.25

KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Prosecution Council

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KWN sends Budget Recommendations to the Ministry of Finance, Labour and Transfers

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From Health Education to Lasting Support for Survivors of Sexual Violence

Women and Girls with Disabilities in Politics – A Low Level of Participation

27.07.2023

The Organization of Persons with Muscular Dystrophy of Kosovo (OPDMK), a member of the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN), held a working meeting on the topic “Motivation of Women with Disabilities to Participate in Politics.” During the meeting, they highlighted the problems and challenges faced by girls and women with disabilities.

Currently, there is only one woman representing women and girls with disabilities in the Municipal Assembly of Prizren, out of all of Kosovo. Egzona Hoxhaj is the sole representative, and she pointed out that women with disabilities are not employed in decision-making positions at either the central or local levels in any other city.

“As the only disabled woman involved in politics, I won votes without the need for gender quotas in the last municipal elections. It is regrettable and somewhat unbelievable that no other girl or woman with disabilities has been able to join Municipal Assemblies or hold positions at the central level throughout Kosovo,” said Egzona Hoxhaj.

Resmije Rahmani (Biba), a mobilizer within the “Motivation of Women with Disabilities to Participate in Politics” project at OPDMK, emphasized the importance of such meetings as women and girls with disabilities often feel excluded. She stated that these meetings play a crucial role in raising awareness within this marginalized section of society.

“We face rejection from society, even from women in decision-making positions. Therefore, these meetings help raise awareness among girls and women with disabilities, although it is unfortunate that such gatherings are rare. However, we hope that they will eventually penetrate into political and decision-making positions. As an organization, we serve as a bridge to activate and engage them in meetings where their rights are advocated,” said Biba.

Biba mentioned that women and girls with disabilities have limited representation in employment, but luckily, Prizren has a representative in the Municipal Assembly who addresses their issues.

“The only assembly member, Egzona Hoxhaj, acts as a bridge and serves as the primary contact for all our problems, which she then addresses. Since assuming her position, she has made significant improvements in the lives of people with disabilities. After 13 years, the municipality has allocated an office space for our organization, which is a positive step along with the presence of the representative,” she added.

In the 2021 elections, 11 candidates with disabilities, including five women, competed in all municipalities of Kosovo. Although there is still a gap, Egzona Hoxhaj stated that the level of participation in the political race was more satisfactory in 2021 compared to previous years.

During this meeting, assembly members and politicians from the municipality of Prizren shared their experiences in politics with women and girls with disabilities.

The activity of OPDMK was made possible thanks to the grant received in the 18th round of the Kosovo Women’s Fund (KRW) for core support, which was financed by the Sigrid Rausing Foundation.

03.09.25