The Lobby for Gender Equality in Kosovo (Lobby) and the Coalition for Equality (CfE) held a joint meeting today to discuss “Women in decision-making at the local level”.

During this meeting the participants shared their experiences and discussed advocacy opportunities to increase women’s and young women’s participation in decision-making at the local level and the importance of implementing the Law on Gender Equality (LGE).

Igballe Rogova, Executive Director of Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN), reminded the participants that this event would be held online using the Zoom platform due to new measures to stop the further spread of COVID-19.

Rogova mentioned that the primary goal of the Lobby is to strengthen the participation of local women in governance, and to advocate for their rights and needs.

“Local elections are close and together we will again demand greater participation of women in these elections. However, to achieve this common goal, there is always one crucial pillar and that pillar is solidarity. We have to show solidarity with each other, this has served as an impetus for the Lobby “, said Rogova.

Further, Selvie Rexhepi, Deputy Mayor for Communities in the Municipality of Kllokot has mentioned a series of challenges facingy women at the local level, and emphasized the importance of continuing work and unity.

“All objectives must be achieved within the framework of equal treatment, by ensuring equal representation for both men and women. Women generally find it more difficult and face obstacles in their journey; however, I encourage all women not to give up. I am very proud to be part of the Lobby,” she said.

Linda Shahini, Former Chairwoman of the Lipjan Municipality Women’s Group and former member of the Municipal Assembly, said that the support gained from the Lobby served as an inspiration for her to continue working in her municipality.

“Violence against women has increased during the pandemic, on this occasion we must remember that women at the local level can support these women who have experienced violence and also fight for their rights. We are a bridge between them and the institutions- because no one understands the problems of women better,” said Shahini.

This meeting was supported by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) with co-financing by UN Women and the European Union (EU) Office in Kosovo.