Gender-Based Violence and the Challenges to Gender Equality: The Case of Kosovo and the Importance of Economic Empowerment

Women’s rights constitute an essential component of human rights, which must be guaranteed for every woman and girl, without distinction. However, in many countries around the world, including Kosovo, women continue to face various forms of gender-based violence and discrimination. Gender-based violence represents a global crisis that has reached alarming proportions, with a noticeable increase in cases of domestic violence and gender-based murders. This paper addresses the legal and institutional framework in Kosovo regarding the handling of cases of violence against women, highlighting the challenges arising from the inadequate implementation of existing laws, the lack of professional capacities in the justice system, and the failures of institutional mechanisms for the effective protection of victims. Additionally, the analysis focuses on the importance of economic empowerment for women as a key instrument for preventing violence and promoting gender equality. The paper is based on various theoretical and empirical sources, including the analysis of official statistics and national and international reports on gender-based violence. In conclusion, concrete recommendations are offered for the institutional and economic empowerment of women, with the aim of building a more just, equal, and violence-free society.