Hoti: Kosovo’s laws mandate women’s participation in political processes

University professor Afrim Hoti emphasized that Kosovo’s laws mandate the participation of women in political processes, and that women play an important role in politics in Kosovo. However, he noted that despite this, there are still obstacles women face.

Hoti pointed out that the position of women in politics is contradictory and complicated, not only in Kosovo but worldwide. Nevertheless, he believes that Kosovo is among the leaders in this respect in the Western Balkans and beyond.

“If we look at Kosovo, it is definitely one of the leading countries, not only in the Western Balkans but also more broadly, where women have the position or readiness to contribute to politics. After the war ended, laws were adopted that mandated women’s participation in political processes. But at the same time, we must acknowledge that there are many other obstacles that women face in the political process, and sometimes it is very difficult for women to overcome them,” Hoti stressed.

He added that perhaps not in the local elections scheduled for October 12, where only a small number of parties nominated women as candidates for mayors, but overall, when it comes to women’s participation in politics, Kosovo stands quite well.

He underlined that this is also demonstrated by the fact that the position of President of Kosovo is held by a woman, Vjosa Osmani.

“In any case, even if not at the local elections, I think Kosovo is not doing badly regarding women’s participation in politics in other bodies, including the position of head of state,” Hoti concluded.