The fog that covered Blinaja Park on Saturday is symbolic of the pain experienced by victims of sexual violence during the war, but also a symbol of proof that even the mountain was not a safe place.
Ramadan Nishori, a survivor of sexual violence during the war, continues the call for everyone.
Neither treatment, nor legal recognition, nor justice should be delayed, as many girls and women must have a certain moment in their families when they muster the courage to speak up and seek help.
Feride Rushiti, director of the Center for the Rehabilitation of Torture Survivors, emphasized that many women and girls still do not find the courage to seek help.
"We chose the mountains because, in addition to the beauty and tranquility of Blinaja Park, we believe that many times these women have been forced to leave their homes and have been forced to cross the mountains and fields, but unfortunately even there, they have had peace, sometimes the mountains have been a witness to their violence, they have not yet come to terms with the crimes that have been committed on their innocent bodies," she said.
In support of them and with the assessment that Kosovo has made significant progress in combating gender-based violence and in supporting survivors, the British ambassador to Kosovo joined this walk as he said that the rally serves to reflect on both the progress and the emotional and social challenges that survivors still face.
“This country has come a long way. There is still a lot to do. There are still many other people who we know are there who have not yet been able to discuss this, let alone make it public, so the support that is given to them is increasingly important. And I really hope and today we are thinking particularly about the fact that it is up to the survivors to decide when it is the right time for them to come out and demand their rights so that it is possible to extend the time frame within which they can continue to demand their rights, at the time that is right for them. So it is wonderful that we are all here together celebrating,” said Ambassador Jonathan Hargreaves.
The Head of the Council of Europe Office in Kosovo underlined that the healing process for victims of sexual violence is long and burdened with trauma, therefore she emphasized the importance of continuous support.
"I think Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina are places where more attention has been paid, perhaps belatedly, but still to making sure that people have the opportunity to receive support. Of course, a great merit here is the KCRT and civil society organizations that provide psychological, social and financial support to victims. I think justice is something important for everyone. Being able to find your loved ones and see them off with respect is also important for everyone," said Mary Ann Hennesey.
Statistics from various organizations show that 20 sexual assaults occurred during the war in Kosovo. The deadline for applying for recognition of this status has been extended until May 15, 2027.
