By Shannon O'Donnell | Online Marketing Manager
Urime Pavaresia!
Yesterday, 17 February 2008, the Kosova Parliament has declared the Independence of Kosova. Symbols of the new state of Kosova have been approved and the constitution is being drafted.
The mood in Kosova yesterday was celebratory. In minus 13 celsius degrees weather, thousands of people -- women and men, old and young -- could be seen celebrating in the streets and in restaurants across Kosova’s cities. They were singing, dancing, holding the Albanian national flag and flags of the allies -- USA, UK, Germany and others, who helped Kosova not just during the conflict, but also continued helping in rebuilding peace and stability and security for all, and most important creating new perspectives for Kosovars.
The celebration helps us overcome some of the pain and suffering endured as Kosovars during the conflict. Yesterday, there were tears of joy and happiness, but also tears and sadness for those who could not survive the conflict and were not with us in this big moment.
Also Kosovars remembered and missed at this historical moment their leader, former President Mr. Ibrahim Rugova, who led Kosovars and was an architecht of the Kosova strategy towards its independent status. He died 2 years ago and is known as the “Gandhi from Kosova” having also won many peace prizes in the world.
All day yesterday I have received phone calls and emails from staff and women in the program and from graduates who have sent to me best wishes for Kosova independence. This is a moment for Kosova to cherish. I see a promising future for Kosova though there is still work to be done for a strong Kosova democratic state to be formed and for gender equality issues to be addressed.
The challenges for Kosova right now include:
* Keep peace and security for all * Implement a state of law to protect human rights * Create an environment for full participation of the all Kosovar citizens, women and minorities in particular * Improve education * Secure investments in the economy to create more jobs.
As of right now, Kosova has been recognized as an independent country by: Afghanistan, USA, Great Britain, France, Turkey, and Albania. Recognition of the newest country in Europe is continuing. We will keep you updated on progress. In the meantime, the best thing supporters can do right now is send a card or note to their sisters in Kosova and congratulate them on Kosova’s independence.
Ways you can show your support:
If you sponsor a woman in Kosova, send a message of congratulations to your sister.
Urime Pavaresia! (means Congratulations on your Independence)
Links:
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