On 8 March, women are in the spotlight. It is an opportunity to reflect on their position in the society, their rights, the challenges they face, and the ongoing journey towards achieving gender equality in all spheres of life.

During my three-and-a-half-year tenure in Kosovo, I had the chance to witness many women shining in the spotlight and achieving great things, despite experiencing adversity. One of the most inspiring examples of women's empowerment and leadership is Fahrije Hoti, the visionary founder of the Agriculture Cooperative "Krusha." Utilizing EU’s support, which entailed the construction of a storage and production facility alongside the installation of solar panels, she increased domestic sales by 40% and export figures by 30%. She now oversees a team of 57 employees, of whom 50 are women from her village. Fahrije’s remarkable strength and resilience shone through the acclaimed drama film “Hive”, which won three awards at Sundance Film Festival. I had the honour to watch this great movie together with Ambassadors of EU Member States and the women of the Agriculture Cooperative “Krusha” during our joint visit to Krusha e Madhe/ Velika Kruša in June 2022. Acknowledging her outstanding contribution to her community and her role as a beacon of inspiration for other women, Fahrije was awarded the prestigious “European of the Year Award” in 2022.

Besarta Pajaziti is another great example. I met Besarta, a beneficiary of EU funding who operated a tailor shop in the historic Old Bazaar of Gjakova/Djakovica, during the launch of the “16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence” campaign in 2020. Utilizing the grant she received from the EU, Besarta successfully expanded her business, originally established by her father, by enhancing both the quality and quantity of the clothing production, while creating employment opportunities.

This year’s theme for International Women’s Day is “Inspire Inclusion”. This is all so inspiring. Such achievements fill both the people of Kosovo and the EU with immense pride.

Women’s inclusion in decision - making process

During my time in Kosovo, I have seen women leaders in all walks of life. Kosovo sets a notable example, with a woman President, and several women serving as Deputy Prime Ministers, Ministers, Deputy Ministers, members of parliament, and diplomats. However, the municipal elections revealed a disappointing lack of women participation, with very few women candidates and only two elected women mayors, both Kosovo Serbs.

Moreover, women are increasingly assuming positions of responsibility across diverse fields such as journalism, engineering, academia, and healthcare. Additionally, they are actively seizing entrepreneurial opportunities, with many women leading companies and creating employment avenues for other women.

The visibility of women in such roles is crucial for the development of young girls and boys alike. It is inspiring for young people in Kosovo to see women in leadership positions in all sectors, and to realise that they can also pursue their vision and realise their dreams. It is also inspiring for the whole society, as it is changing mentalities and stereotypes among all women and men.

However, Kosovo still faces considerable challenges. While it is making steady progress in the general representation of women in decision-making in public life, mere representation is insufficient for achieving gender equality. Women in leadership roles encounter heightened scrutiny and face greater demands, constantly needing to demonstrate their value. Despite holding positions of power, they frequently encounter discrimination. Women, particularly politicians and public figures, often become targets of disinformation campaigns intended to undermine their credibility. Sexist, misogynistic, and hateful speech directed at women not only jeopardizes their well-being but also, in severe cases, compromises their security.

To counter this, we should raise awareness about discrimination, take action to drive gender equality, and celebrate women's achievements. By amplifying women’s voices, we enrich political discourse with diverse perspectives, fostering inclusive policies that address the unique needs of all citizens.

The EU as a promoter of gender equality and women’s leadership

In 2020, I signed the implementation plan of Gender Action Plan III, in close cooperation with Member States' representatives, civil society organisations, women's rights activists, the youth, and key international partners. This plan includes a strategic vision: continued commitment to fighting gender-based violence, having better education, strengthening economic and social rights, and advancing women’s leadership and participation.

Since then, the EU in Kosovo works closely with the Kosovo Government, the vibrant civil society, and our international partners to advance gender equality and women empowerment through raising awareness of existing inequalities, suggesting legislative amendments to improve Kosovo’s legislation in line with the EU acquis, and implementing targeted projects.

For example, the EU’s Regional program “Empowering CSOs in Combatting Discrimination and Furthering Women's Labour Rights” aims to bring equal opportunities to women who want to get into the labor market, focusing on legislative, policy and implementation shortcomings that trigger women’s discrimination in the labor market.

In addition, the EU has implemented several projects to strengthen women’s participation in politics, mainstream gender equality in the legislative procedure, and increase the proportion of seats held by women in parliaments and local governments. We are doing this because we firmly believe that politics should not be considered men’s realm only.

Today, I make a pledge to continue to promote women’s and girls’ rights in all aspects of life though the work of the EU in Kosovo. This can only be achieved if we all recognize the value of women's inclusion.

Published in Koha