#LetsTalk - OSCE Mission launches local dialogue and community engagement series on violence against women in Kosovo

The OSCE has launched the #LetsTalk series of sustained and structured initiatives across Kosovo - intermunicipal and interinstitutional dialogues and community engagements - aimed at identifying root causes of violence against women (VAW) and strengthening the response to it.

The initiatives will be implemented throughout 2026, leading up to the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign in December, when findings and recommendations generated will be presented to relevant institutions and partners to support concrete and measurable actions. The intention is to connect local voices with central decision-makers and support local actors to foster an environment of zero tolerance towards violence against women. #LetsTalk also aims to improve information sharing, implementation of preventive and protective measures, and the availability and accessibility of quality services for victims and survivors across Kosovo. 

By offering open and constructive space, the Mission will bring together representatives of key institutions, municipalities, and service providers to exchange experiences and strengthen co-operation for a stronger response to VAW. In parallel, inclusive discussions with local communities, particularly women- and youth-led civil society organisations, will follow a participatory approach to collect perspectives and recommendations from participants on the root causes of gender inequality and the effects on VAW.

Through this approach, the Mission promotes continuous dialogue, strengthens co-ordination among stakeholders, and supports the development of practical, community-informed responses to all forms of VAW.

“Tackling violence against women requires sustained effort, co-ordinated action and active listening to community perspectives,” asserts Cornelia Taylor, Deputy Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo. “Through this series, we aim to ensure that diverse voices are heard and inform institutional responses, ultimately translating into concrete and lasting improvements in prevention of violence against women and protection of victims.”

The series builds on the Mission’s long-standing engagement in promoting human rights, community safety, and inclusive governance, as well as its established co-operation with institutions at central and local levels, and its field presence across Kosovo. 

The OSCE Mission remains committed to supporting efforts to prevent and address violence against women in close co-operation with institutions, service providers, civil society, international partners, and communities.