UNICEF Kosovo has launched a new campaign as part of an EU-funded initiative. The campaign aims to raise public awareness of the challenges children with disabilities face and to advocate for their rights to be fully realised. This effort is part of a three-year project called ‘Protecting Vulnerable Children in Kosovo,’ implemented by UNICEF with financial support from the European Union in Kosovo.
In partnership with the Office of Good Governance, a 22-month campaign will be launched online and in Kosovo municipalities. The campaign’s primary goal is to advocate for the rights of children with disabilities, increase accessibility to public spaces, expand the availability of quality inclusive services, and fight against stigma and discrimination against children with disabilities and their families. Additionally, the campaign aims to raise awareness of the draft Law on the Status and Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which, when approved, will be a significant reform milestone in Kosovo.
The upcoming campaign will showcase a symbolic installation called the “knot”, which represents the various challenges faced by children with disabilities in Kosovo. This installation will be open to the public for a week at the heart of Pristina, providing a visible and impactful platform for parents and children to demand change and promote inclusion within their communities.
Present at the event were parents and children, as well as esteemed guests, including Mrs. Emilija Redžepi, Deputy Prime Minister of Kosovo; Mr. Johannes Madsen, Head of Cooperation at the EU in Kosovo; Mr. Alban Zogaj, Deputy Mayor of Pristina Municipality and Ms. Nona Zicherman, Head of UNICEF Kosovo.
“The launch of this significant campaign today is a momentous occasion for the European Union, UNICEF, and the people of Kosovo. Together, we stand united in our commitment to promoting the inclusion of children with disabilities, breaking down barriers, and championing their rights,” said Johannes Madsen, speaking at the event.
“We are grateful to the European Union in Kosovo for partnering with us for such an important cause. UNICEF and the EU share the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive and realize their full potential, regardless of their abilities, and we call on parents, development partners, and decision-makers to join our campaign and take concrete actions to ensure the full inclusion of all children in Kosovo,” said Ms. Nona Zicherman, Head of UNICEF in Kosovo.
The UNICEF, supported financially by the European Union in Kosovo, is committed to achieving equal access to comprehensive community services and inclusive education for children with disabilities. This involves collaborating with civil society partners to provide inclusive early childhood development programs and other services, training social service professionals, strengthening community-based rehabilitation centers, and enhancing the quality of education for children with disabilities by providing trained teacher assistants.
