What we do

Direct beneficiaries

- Organizations with a mandate to protect the interests and rights of persons with disabilities within the minority communities in Kosovo.
- Persons with disabilities in non-majority communities
- Local and central-level authorities

The situation on the field

People with disabilities (PWDs) in Kosovo, face numerous challenges that impact their daily lives. They confront social prejudices, stigmatization, and discrimination when seeking access to education, both formal and informal. Structural and institutional support is insufficient, exacerbating the difficulties they encounter. Employment discrimination further restricts their opportunities, leaving them on the fringes of society and struggling to meet basic needs.

PwDs from minority communities face additional and unique obstacles. They not only contend with the general issues mentioned above but also grapple with specific problems associated with their minority status. Institutional dualisms, such as different administrative structures and processes, create additional barriers. Challenges related to personal identification documents, language barriers in accessing vital information, limited freedom of movement, and security concerns compound their difficulties. Within this complex environment, PWDs from minority communities are often left marginalized and neglected, without adequate support systems in place to address their needs

Documents of the Coalition

  • Strategy of the Coalition – a document that defines the development objectives and means for its attainment;
  • Operational principles of Coalition – and internal system of decision-making, coordination, and implementation of activities;
  • Code of Ethics of Coalition – a document that sets out the Coalition’s ethical guidelines and best practices to follow.

Next steps

The establishment of the Coalition marks a significant step towards long-term engagement and support for project beneficiaries. The Coalition, consisting of organizations directly working with PwDs, will continue its efforts beyond the project completion. Through joint actions, the Coalition will develop tailored programs and services, addressing the specific needs of its constituents. Their increased implementation capability will enable them to secure support for PwD-focused initiatives. Acting as a partner for national-level initiatives, the Coalition will advocate for PwD rights and inclusion. Regular liaison with institutions will ensure effective communication and collaboration. The Coalition’s sustained engagement ensures that beneficiaries will remain connected to initiatives promoting their rights, leading to lasting improvements in their socio-political standing.

 

Gender-Based Analysis

Women, men, boys, and girls with disabilities living in minority communities in Kosovo are affected differently due to various intersecting factors. Women with disabilities often face multiple layers of discrimination based on their gender and disability, leading to unique challenges in accessing employment opportunities and services. They may encounter barriers such as gender-based violence, limited access to education, and societal expectations around caregiving roles. Young girls may face additional barriers such as limited access to education due to cultural norms or increased vulnerability to gender-based violence. In addition, there are many obstacles and discriminatory practices deriving from the status of minority communities.