Through civic activism, work with young people, and the promotion of gender equality, YAHR works to ensure that human rights are respected in practice. 

Founded in 2002, the Youth Association for Human Rights (YAHR) has more than 20 years of experience in protecting and promoting human rights. Based in Lipjan, the organization also works in the municipality of Shtime. 

YAHR’s mission is to build a democratic and tolerant society in which human rights are respected. To advance this mission, the organization works with young people and citizens, addressing issues related to health, women’s and children’s rights, women’s political empowerment, and their participation in decision-making. 

YAHR’s work is organized around three main programmes: democratization and civic activism, youth, and gender equality. Through these programmes, the organization conducts workshops and awareness-raising campaigns, monitors institutions, and creates opportunities for citizens to engage in issues that affect their communities. 

The democratization and civic activism programme includes monitoring local institutions and budgetary processes. Every year, YAHR monitors the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework, including during periods when there is no dedicated funding for this work. Through this engagement, the organization seeks to promote greater transparency and accountability and encourage institutions to be more responsive to citizens. 

Over the years, YAHR has also monitored how local institutions fulfil their commitments to gender-mainstreaming their budget documents and processes. Through monitoring, recommendations, and advocacy, the organization has called on institutions to complete the relevant documents and strengthen the implementation of their obligations. 

YAHR believes that continuous monitoring and cooperation with institutions have contributed to greater transparency in the Municipality of Lipjan. Over the past three years, the organization has also worked with the Mayor and local institutions to address issues that matter to citizens. 

As part of its youth programme, YAHR cooperates with the Municipality of Lipjan to implement various activities. As a result of YAHR’s advocacy, a youth programme was included in the Municipality of Lipjan’s Strategy 2025–2032. 

As part of its gender equality programme, YAHR works to empower women in politics and increase their participation in decision-making. Its work in this area also focuses on women’s rights and the prevention of violence against women and domestic violence. The organization has also worked with the Informal Women’s Caucus at the Municipal Assembly, supporting women’s inclusion and representation in local decision-making processes. 

Last friday, the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) met with Bekim Krasniqi, Director of YAHR, and Zoja Osmani, Project Coordinator. The discussion focused on the organization’s development, its programmes, cooperation with institutions, and its longstanding contribution to advancing human rights, civic activism, youth engagement, and gender equality. 

A member of KWN since 2021, YAHR has shared experiences and knowledge with other member organizations, built new connections, and contributed to joint initiatives to advance women’s rights and gender equality. Cooperation with KWN has also helped strengthen YAHR’s programme focused on empowering women in politics. 

KWN will continue to work with YAHR and other member organizations, supporting their efforts to empower women and young people, protect human rights, and increase citizen participation in decision-making processes. 

You can learn more about YAHR’s work and activities on its official website.