On the National Day of Survivors of Sexual Violence during the Kosovo War, acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti praised Ramadan Nishori for publicly sharing his story as a male survivor, calling it a powerful call for society to support all survivors facing stigma.
Kurti emphasized the importance of acknowledging every woman and man who endured this crime, used systematically by Serbian forces during the 1998–1999 war. “With extraordinary courage, Ramadan Nishori broke the silence and became the first man to publicly testify about surviving sexual violence during the war,” Kurti wrote on Facebook. He added that survivors, especially men, continue to face prejudices and obstacles when seeking recognition and justice.
The government, he said, remains fully committed to justice, recognition, and continuous support for survivors. Following his remarks, Kurti attended a memorial ceremony at the “Heroines” monument in Prishtina.
In line with this commitment, the Government of Kosovo held an electronic meeting today and officially extended the mandate of the Government Commission for the Recognition and Verification of the Status of Survivors of Sexual Violence during the Kosovo Liberation War until May 15, 2028. Importantly, the deadline for submitting applications for recognition has been extended until May 15, 2027.
“Sexual violence was systematically used by Serbia as a weapon of war in Kosovo,” Kurti stressed, recalling the first war crimes conviction related to sexual violence, issued against Zoran Vukotić in 2021. “These crimes are neither forgotten nor forgiven.”
He concluded that the survivors’ suffering and courage must never be overlooked. “Facing the past and seeking justice with solidarity is the only way we can build a peaceful and just future for all,” Kurti stated.
