KDI: Online violence is becoming a serious barrier to women’s political participation in Kosovo

Prishtina, March 24, 2026 – The Kosova Democratic Institute (KDI), in cooperation with the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD), organized a roundtable discussion titled “Is online violence becoming a barrier for women in politics?”, bringing together representatives of institutions, political parties, civil society, and international partners.

In his opening remarks, KDI Executive Director Ismet Kryeziu emphasized the growing impact of online violence on the quality of democratic processes in Kosovo. The British Ambassador to Kosovo, Jonathan Hargreaves, underlined that online abuse against women in politics should be clearly recognized as a barrier to political participation and, consequently, to democratic outcomes. He called for joint efforts to improve reporting mechanisms, ensure faster removal of harmful content, and provide stronger support to women facing abuse, while also stressing the need to hold online platforms accountable for the public spaces they shape.

Similarly, Damir Neziri noted that while Kosovo is often seen as a positive example in the region in terms of women’s political participation, this should not obscure the persistent barriers women face—particularly online violence—which continue to undermine equal and meaningful engagement in political life.

During the event, findings from two key studies were presented, showing that online abuse—ranging from hate speech and sexist language to coordinated attacks—directly affects women candidates’ visibility, confidence, and willingness to participate in political processes. The discussion also highlighted gaps in Kosovo’s legal and institutional framework in addressing technology-facilitated gender-based violence.

Panelists, including MP Janina Ymeri and mayoral candidate Besa Shahini, shared personal experiences of being targeted online, stressing that such attacks go beyond individual harm and create structural barriers for women in politics.

The roundtable concluded with a call for stronger institutional action, improved legal safeguards, and greater responsibility from political parties, media, and online platforms to ensure a safer and more inclusive political environment.

This activity is part of a broader mentorship program aimed at strengthening women’s leadership, political engagement, and networking in Kosovo

This project is supported by the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD), with funding from the Government of the United Kingdom, and is part of a mentorship program aimed at strengthening women’s leadership, political engagement, and networking in Kosovo.