A new Supreme Court decision allows Kosovo War Veterans to work under a regular employment contract without losing their entire pension, potentially providing much-needed relief for thousands.
Bahri Shala, a former UÇK member, has long struggled financially, relying mainly on his veteran’s pension of €204 and occasional daily work. Previously, receiving a pension meant he could not have formal employment.
“I couldn’t work under a regular contract before. Now that the court approved this, I hope it becomes easier to find a contract. With only €200, how could we manage electricity, water, trash… what’s left?” Shala explained.
The Supreme Court ruling, issued in late November, abolished the requirement for veterans to prove unemployment to qualify for a pension. After this decision, any veteran employed in the private sector can also receive 50% of their pension.
Implementation details are still unclear. The Ministry of Finance is reviewing the possibility of immediate implementation, although additional legal changes may be required, pending the formation of a new government.
The Kosovo War Veterans Organization estimates that around 80% of veterans will benefit, as few are employed in the public sector. Currently, approximately 37,000 individuals receive the veteran’s pension.
