The President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, on Monday awarded more than 200 decorations to individuals from various sectors, including journalism, sports, healthcare, education, arts, culture, activism, and public service, who have left a lasting mark on Kosovo’s freedom, independence, and state-building.
In her speech, Osmani said the decorations are not only recognition but also a testament to the sacrifice and courage of citizens who never gave up on the country’s freedom.
“The homeland is not only the place where we are born, but a calling that follows us throughout life. The Republic of Kosovo is a continuous flow of generations of those who gave everything. At the heart of this effort lies our freedom — not only as a right won, but as a deep and permanent feeling. The month of March, in which this ceremony is being held, is a heavy month in our history, a month of remembrance and reflection that takes us back to horrific events and massacres committed by Serbia. A month that proves resilience and the determination never to surrender,” Osmani said.
“The decorations being awarded are not only recognition, but also proof of the sacrifice and courage that never bowed or gave up on freedom. Our tribute begins with the heroes of the KLA, those who made the ultimate sacrifice by giving their lives for freedom. Eternal honor belongs to them. Our freedom was not built only on the battlefield, but also by many sons and daughters of this country through knowledge. Some of the decorations are dedicated to contributions to freedom and independence and will be awarded to those who stood by this country in decisive times,” she added.
President Osmani also mentioned the Kosovo national football team, which will face Turkey tomorrow in the playoff final for the 2026 World Cup. She stated that regardless of the match result, the team will be decorated with a presidential medal on Tuesday for its extraordinary contribution and the hope it brings to the people.
“We must appreciate those who today are giving hope to the citizens of Kosovo. Regardless of tomorrow’s result, the national team has already made history. Therefore, I have the honor to announce that for this extraordinary contribution and the hope they are giving to our people, the presidential medal will be awarded to the national team tomorrow, regardless of the match outcome,” Osmani said.
