Kosovo Women's Network

Kosovo Women’s Network Stands in Solidarity with Women Affected by Cancer

30.10.2024

Throughout the month of October, the staff of the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) expressed their solidarity with women affected by cancer.

In their daily battles, every day is a new fight. Each unexpected piece of news, each difficult treatment, and each severe pain are challenges that they face with extraordinary strength. Cancer is not just a disease – it affects the body, heart, and soul, changing everything around them. Yet, they continue to stand strong and inspire us all with their courage.

On a Tuesday, when we marked the “Red Shoes” campaign, we showed our solidarity with all women by wearing a pink ribbon and conveying a message. We supported those who face fear, anxiety, and uncertainty, but who still find the strength to smile, embrace their loved ones, and hope for better days.

“Take care of yourselves! Go for regular check-ups, don’t neglect your health. An early check-up can save your life, can bring you more days with your children, more happy memories with those you love. In this difficult journey, no woman is alone. We are all together until every battle is won, and together… we dream of a future where pain is less and hope is greater,” was one of our calls.

KWN also joined the traditional “Symbolic Walk” organized by the Kosovo Center for the Fight Against Breast Cancer “Jeta/Vita,” in cooperation with the Presidency of Kosovo, within the framework of the International Month of the Fight Against Breast Cancer. This event was held in “Ibrahim Rugova” square in Pristina and ended in “Zahir Pajaziti” square, bringing together many citizens who supported this cause.

Like every year, KWN actively participated to raise awareness about breast cancer and to encourage early diagnosis, which saves lives. This symbolic activity conveyed the joint message to the entire society: to engage in the fight against cancer and to offer support to affected women.

In addition, the KWN staff attended a lecture by Dr. Sabahate Lleshi, who spoke about the prevention of breast cancer and the importance of regular medical check-ups.

25.04.25

The Foundation House celebrates a decade of Girls in ICT

15.04.25

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

12.04.25

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

04.04.25

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

28.03.25

Shaping Change: A Swedish Political Scientist Contributes at KWN

28.03.25

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

KWN Staff Gather to Enjoy Themselves and Reflect on Women’s Work and Empowerment

29.10.2024

From October 2 to 4, the Kosovo Women’s Network organized an unforgettable retreat, bringing the entire staff together to recharge with positive energy, participate in various activities, and enjoy moments of relaxation. This retreat was more than just a break from daily work; it provided an opportunity to strengthen team bonds and share meaningful experiences together.

In keeping with Family-Friendly Policies, some staff members brought their children, adding a special touch to the retreat. This arrangement allowed them to balance work and family responsibilities, with the children becoming part of the group’s warm and welcoming atmosphere. Laughter and joy were present at every moment.

The retreat included various activities designed to promote networking and strengthen connections among staff members.

Key discussions focused on how to address feminist perspectives and challenges to gender equality, drawing from personal and professional experiences. These fruitful conversations helped develop strategies to advance gender equality in the Network’s future initiatives.

Alongside the discussions, the staff also enjoyed moments of fun. One of the highlights was the “EuroSong” performance, where everyone was divided into five groups to create poems and songs that celebrated women’s empowerment and their tireless contributions—culminating in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere.

Ultimately, this retreat not only fostered stronger connections among team members but also energized and inspired them to continue their commitment to the shared goals of the Kosovo Women’s Network.

Additionally, on October 18-20, 2024, Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) Board Members met to discuss the current situation in Kosovo, including the forthcoming parliamentary elections. They discussed strategies that KWN can consider, together with its partners, towards furthering the rights of diverse women and men, girls and boys, in line with KWN’s Strategy.

Key areas of discussion related to freedom of speech; delays in adopting the Civil Code, which needs to provide several protections important for diverse women (and men); and the need to engage more young activists in the movement. The Board recalled and emphasised that KWN is not aligned with any political party, and we, together with our partners, will strive to encourage all political parties to take steps to further diverse women and girls’ rights as per our mission and vision for a more equal society.

25.04.25

The Foundation House celebrates a decade of Girls in ICT

15.04.25

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

12.04.25

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

04.04.25

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

28.03.25

Shaping Change: A Swedish Political Scientist Contributes at KWN

28.03.25

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

“Equal Access to Justice – Free Legal Advice by the Norma Organization”

29.10.2024

Increasing Access to Justice

Through an initiative by the Norma organization of legal professionals aimed at improving access to justice, awareness and legal education have been raised regarding inheritance and property rights, as well as the provision of free legal assistance.

Beneficiaries include marginalized groups such as persons with disabilities, represented by the NGO Handikos, LGBTQI+ individuals (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and other identities), represented by the Center for Social Group Development – CSGD, minority communities, and the organization of pensioners and labor invalids. Through this grant, lectures and informative meetings have been made available to women, men, boys, and girls from these communities to inform them about their legal rights and the options for free legal aid.

“Free legal assistance has always been the primary goal of our projects, addressing ongoing issues in Kosovo, as well as responding to requests we’ve received in previous meetings, particularly concerning the economic position of women,” states Valbona Salihu, the executive director of the Norma organization.

So far, several significant results have been achieved, positively impacting beneficiaries. These achievements include increased access to justice, enhanced awareness of inheritance and property rights, and empowerment of marginalized groups.

During lectures held by Norma, participants received direct legal advice, helping resolve their specific issues and providing clarity on the legal procedures they should follow to protect their rights.

Awareness on Inheritance and Property Rights: One of the key achievements of the initiative has been raising awareness about inheritance and property rights under Kosovo’s Civil Code, particularly for women and other marginalized groups. This has led to an increase in citizens’ awareness, especially among women, about their ownership rights.

Vlora Azemi, a lawyer at Norma, explains their motivation behind this initiative. “The reason we undertook this project, especially the part on inheritance, is due to women waiving their inheritance rights,” she says.

Proper information about property and inheritance rights has emerged as one of the most significant requests from participating women, according to Vlora. “Women go and sign away their inheritance rights, not knowing what they are entitled to or understanding they have a right to inherit just like men. They often think they aren’t entitled to that share or are afraid of losing family ties if they claim it.”

According to her, many of these women have shared that they were unaware of their right to property or the paths they could pursue to acquire it.

“It is a very small number of women who inherit. From data collected in Pristina last year, we found that only 20% of women inherit and own property compared to men.”

Through Norma’s activities, around 60 people, including women, men, girls, and boys, have been informed about their legal rights and the possibilities for accessing free legal aid.

“With the new Civil Code, if it is approved, these issues, particularly the waiver of inheritance, have been well addressed. During the session when signing, the notary is required to keep a record and record the session, and during the session, they must inform each person of their rights,” says Vlora Azemi from Norma.

Some findings from the activities conducted by Norma: There is a need for better inclusion of people with disabilities in the Free Legal Aid Law.

During monitoring, positive feedback was collected from participants. One participant at the roundtable stated, “This project has helped me better understand my rights as a woman in Kosovo. I now feel more confident in claiming what is rightfully mine under the law.”

An important recommendation is to establish shelters for men and boys and to address family cases comprehensively in situations of domestic violence. Additionally, it is recommended to involve more local organizations focused on defending the rights of men and boys.

At the end of the activity, a brochure was prepared containing detailed information on the provision of free legal aid, which was distributed by Norma across social media networks.

From Norma’s previous initiative (2021-2022), an analysis of the status of property inheritance by women was conducted. To raise women’s awareness of their property rights, Norma organized a workshop on May 26, 2022, in Pristina, in collaboration with “NGO Dora e Hapur,” led by Mr. Dardan Makolli.

During this meeting, women discussed their property rights, revealing that none of them had registered property in their name and that most properties belonged to grandparents or family members. This situation highlights a significant challenge for women in Kosovo, where lack of ownership negatively impacts their economic and social empowerment.

Recommendations gathered by Norma during its activities include opening shelters for men in Gračanica. One key recommendation from Handikos is that, due to the location of the Free Legal Aid Agency’s office, people with disabilities face access difficulties, so they have requested easier access for everyone to the Agency’s office.

In all meetings, Norma offers free legal advice, allowing participants to consult for free legal aid.

This initiative is supported by the Kosovo Women’s Fund with a grant of €14,997.44, financed by the Sigrid Rausing Trust.

25.04.25

The Foundation House celebrates a decade of Girls in ICT

15.04.25

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

12.04.25

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

04.04.25

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

28.03.25

Shaping Change: A Swedish Political Scientist Contributes at KWN

28.03.25

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

Support Groups Where Women Affected by Cancer Find Support and Courage

28.10.2024

The “Support Groups for Women Affected by Breast Cancer” is an initiative by the organization Have Hope, aimed at supporting women and girls facing this serious illness. These support groups provide emotional and social assistance, along with information on accessing medical help.

This initiative began on July 1, 2023, and will continue until December 31, 2023. It has developed several activities aimed at raising awareness among women about breast cancer. The two key components of the initiative include forming support groups and distributing questionnaires for data collection.

By gathering in a safe space to express their concerns and challenges, these women affected by breast cancer gain deeper insights through each other’s experiences. The psychological support that is not provided as adequately as it should be elsewhere is found within the group, stemming from the sensitivity and understanding shaped by their personal journeys.

The “Breast Cancer Awareness Info Session” was one of the activities aimed at educating women about the early symptoms of breast cancer and the importance of regular medical check-ups. An oncology specialist provided information on accessing health services for women affected by cancer, specifically breast cancer.

Have Hope has established fourteen (14) support groups where women share their personal experiences and provide each other with emotional support. These meetings take place every Thursday from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM in Pristina, moderated by the organization’s director, Arnisa Osmani, with the assistance of volunteers. The meetings have proven to be quite fruitful, positively impacting the emotional well-being of the participants.

During the support groups meeting, women are encouraged to document and report instances of unequal treatment in health services.

The primary and most significant achievement of these support groups has been the emotional support provided to women. At each meeting, new participants are introduced, and the stories of women affected by cancer or those who have overcome it are shared. The participating women learn about their right to receive a disability support/pension, which they can claim once a year. They also receive information on the appropriate behaviour that doctors and healthcare personnel should exhibit in their treatment.

These meetings have been fruitful and essential for the women involved, particularly in terms of emotional support, resulting in a sense of satisfaction among the participants.

The organization distributed electronic questionnaires to approximately 60 women, and the data collected will be used to develop new policies and improve health services.

The project has successfully raised awareness and informed 48 women and girls about the risks of cancer and the importance of recognizing early symptoms. Another key outcome is increasing women’s awareness of their rights to quality healthcare, including their right to appropriate medical treatment and protection from discrimination.

The project has also positively impacted approximately 100 family members and relatives of the participants, providing them with a sense of support and security.

Have Hope’s initiative has contributed to the furthering of gender equality through the rule of law, addressing healthcare inequalities and ensuring that women have equal access to quality health services. This effort has enhanced support services for cancer patients, including counselling, education, and community outreach.

The project “Support Groups for Women Affected by Breast Cancer” has been a vital initiative aimed at supporting and empowering women dealing with this disease, successfully influencing the lives of many women and their families.

Have Hope implemented this initiative as a beneficiary of the 18th round of the Kosovo Women’s Fund, through the KWN initiative “Furthering the Women’s Rights initiative” which is funded by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) and co-financed by the Swedish International Cooperation and Development Agency (Sida).

25.04.25

The Foundation House celebrates a decade of Girls in ICT

15.04.25

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

12.04.25

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

04.04.25

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

28.03.25

Shaping Change: A Swedish Political Scientist Contributes at KWN

28.03.25

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

British Ambassador Hargreaves Visits KWN

28.10.2024

We were pleased to welcome at Kosovo Women’s Network the United Kingdom Ambassador, Jonathan Hargreaves and Erëmira Berisha, the Embassy’s Human Rights Officer.

We discussed the political situation; how insecurity affects gender-based violence; progress and remaining challenges to addressing such violence; the importance of men and boys’ engagement towards a more equal society; the urgent need to adopt the Labour Law and Civil Code; and the importance of strengthening social services to prevent violence and address poverty.

KWN Executive Director Igballe Rogova thanked Ambassador Hargreaves for his important political support related to furthering gender equality to date.

We look forward to continuing our cooperation towards shared aims of furthering peace and security for diverse women and men throughout Kosovo.

25.04.25

The Foundation House celebrates a decade of Girls in ICT

15.04.25

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

12.04.25

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

04.04.25

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

28.03.25

Shaping Change: A Swedish Political Scientist Contributes at KWN

28.03.25

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

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.

25.04.25

The Foundation House celebrates a decade of Girls in ICT

15.04.25

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

12.04.25

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

04.04.25

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

28.03.25

Shaping Change: A Swedish Political Scientist Contributes at KWN

28.03.25

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

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).

25.04.25

The Foundation House celebrates a decade of Girls in ICT

15.04.25

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

12.04.25

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

04.04.25

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

28.03.25

Shaping Change: A Swedish Political Scientist Contributes at KWN

28.03.25

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

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.

25.04.25