Who We Are
In Kosovo, as well as globally, women represent one of the most vital components of society. Throughout history, they have endured systemic abuse, discrimination, exploitation, and sexual harassment. Even in contemporary times, egregious violations of women’s rights persist. In Kosovo particularly, women grapple with achieving economic and social parity within a patriarchal framework that restricts their access to opportunities. The scars of the Kosovo War, where approximately 20,000 Kosovan women endured systematic rape, serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges. Thus, prioritizing the advancement of young women’s and girls’ human rights, economic empowerment, and political participation is paramount for catalyzing progress towards enhancing the quality of women’s lives.
Driven by a steadfast commitment to empower women within our society, “Me Dhe Për Gratë,” operating as an NGO under the auspices of “Me Dhe Për Kosovën,” was established. Our mission at “Me Dhe Për Gratë” is to champion and safeguard women’s rights through a spectrum of projects and initiatives designed to facilitate their full participation in society. Foremost among our objectives is the creation of economic pathways for women, thereby bolstering their standing within Kosovo’s social fabric.
Our vision for Kosovo is one of prosperity and inclusivity, where women rightfully occupy a central role in shaping our collective future. It is indisputable that women possess the potential and aptitude to propel our nation toward a brighter tomorrow. As eloquently stated by Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, “If you educate a man, you educate a family and a village. To educate a woman, you empower a nation.” Thus, we invite you to join us in our endeavor to dismantle the stereotypes and barriers that impede women in Kosovo, fostering a society where they can thrive and contribute on equal footing, devoid of discrimination and prejudice.
To achieve our goals, “Me Dhe Për Gratë” operates on multiple fronts. We engage in advocacy efforts to influence policy changes that advance women’s rights and equality. Additionally, we provide educational programs aimed at fostering leadership skills and self-confidence among women and girls. Furthermore, we collaborate with local businesses and stakeholders to create economic opportunities tailored to women, thus fostering their financial independence and autonomy.
Central to our mission is the promotion of a culture of respect and inclusivity. Through community outreach initiatives, we strive to challenge societal norms and attitudes that perpetuate gender-based discrimination and violence. By fostering dialogue and awareness, we aim to cultivate a society where every woman’s voice is heard, valued, and respected.
At “Me Dhe Për Gratë,” we recognize the importance of collaboration and partnerships in effecting meaningful change. We actively seek alliances with other organizations, both domestically and internationally, to leverage resources and expertise in our shared pursuit of gender equality and women’s empowerment. Together, we can build a Kosovo where every woman has the opportunity to realize her full potential and contribute to the collective prosperity of our nation.
