SDG Talks with Atifete Jahjaga
The Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AJK) and the Kosovo Women Journalists Network had the honor of welcoming the first woman President of Kosovo, Ms. Atifete Jahjaga, as part of the latest edition of the SDG Talks.
In an inspiring conversation, Ms. Jahjaga shared her journey, starting from her early days as a police officer in Kosovo. As a young woman in the security sector, she faced prejudice and gender-based challenges, but through determination and commitment, she turned every obstacle into a source of strength to move forward.
Her career took an extraordinary turn when, from 2011 to 2016, she served as the President of the Republic of Kosovo. Holding this position was a great honor for Ms. Jahjaga, but also marked the beginning of some of the biggest challenges in her life. At a crucial time in Kosovo’s early statehood, she had the responsibility to represent unity and to build partnerships and alliances to strengthen Kosovo’s international standing. Despite all the difficulties and biases she faced as the first woman president, Ms. Jahjaga described the experience as:
"The greatest honor of my life — to serve my people and my country."
She encouraged girls and women to believe in themselves and their abilities, emphasizing that there is nothing a woman cannot achieve if she has the confidence and courage to move forward. She used criticism and prejudice as fuel to persevere. She also highlighted the importance of support and solidarity among women, recalling her mother’s advice to never forget women and to always work for their empowerment.
In 2018, Ms. Jahjaga founded the Jahjaga Foundation, which focuses on four main pillars: women, youth, security, and regional reconciliation. Through the Foundation, she continues to contribute to the country’s development and the advancement of human rights.
The conversation concluded with an open discussion and questions from attendees, creating a meaningful space for sharing ideas and experiences.
Thank you to everyone who took part in this inspiring dialogue!
This activity is part of the UN Women Kosovo project “Addressing the impact of gender-based violence in Kosovo and empowering survivors to fight stigma and speak out,” supported by the British Embassy Pristina.
