On 11^th November 2025, the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX), in cooperation with the Association of Women in the Kosovo Police, organized the high-level forum discussion “From Resolution to Action: 25 years of Women Transforming Peace and Security in Kosovo,” marking the 25th Anniversary of UN Security Council resolution 1325 and the launch of the Women, Peace and Security Agenda.

Opening the forum, Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani Sadriu emphasized how this anniversary is a testament to an entire chapter of resistance, vision and transformation of a whole system of values in the sector, connecting women with the values of peace and the mission to strengthen and guarantee security.

Recalling that protecting peace, law, equality and human rights are leading principles behind Kosovo’s commitment to implementing the Agenda, President Osmani recalled that: “The progress achieved should not satisfy us, since challenges still remain; especially in achieving equal representation in high managerial positions. Only by removing barriers to women’s participation, can we ensure women’s presence in security decision-making, based on meritocracy.”

The EULEX Head of Mission, Giovanni Pietro Barbano, called for a collective recognition of the indispensable role of women serving in police and correctional services, stressing how their presence transforms the way justice and security are delivered.

“When women serve in these critical roles, peace is strengthened from within, grounded in fairness and resilience,” Barbano stated, reminding how EULEX, over the years, has steadfastly supported women's participation in Kosovo security sector, their retention and professional development, as well as their advancement to management positions.

The General Director of the Kosovo Police, Gazmend Hoxha, reaffirmed Kosovo Police’s dedication to continuously support the role of women, including in leadership positions, as pivotal for the professional development of this Institution. “The commitment of women in the Kosovo Police proves that Kosovo has a strong voice in implementing the Women Peace and Security Agenda”, Hoxha said, adding that placing women at the centre of peace and security and decision-making is vital for sustainable stability.

The General Director of the Kosovo Correctional Service (KCS) Ismail Dibrani pointed out the gender-responsive approach of the Kosovo correctional system recalling that, within the KCS, there are several departments at different organizational level led by women. He concluded that “Women play a crucial role in promoting human rights as well as in promoting a dignified and humane treatment within correctional institutions.”

The Head of the Training Division in the Kosovo Police, Major Tahire Haxholli, highlighted the importance of marking this day to celebrate women as key contributors to peace and security. She emphasized the progress made in changing perceptions about women’s role in security institutions, recognizing their professionalism, courage, and dedication. Major Haxholli also underlined the role of UNSCR 1325 and the gender equality agenda in advancing women’s positions within the Kosovo Police and strengthening their leadership capacities.

During the panel discussion, Colonel Aferdita Mikullovci, Director of the Regional Directorate of Police in Mitrovica South, reflected on the significance of establishing associations as platforms to support and empower women in the security sector. She explained that the Association of Women in the Kosovo Police has been essential in capacity building, professional development, and advocacy for gender equality.

Colonel Mikullovci recalled that, with the support of Kosovo Police management and partners like EULEX, the Association has grown over the years and the achievements of its members have been recognized both locally and from international security institutions. The Association has also played a vital role in promoting gender-responsive working conditions within the police that would increase recruitment and retention of female officers. This has also included the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with healthcare providers in Kosovo and the raising of health awareness among officers .

The President of the Kosovo Correctional Service Women Association, Hasa Gucati, spoke about the Association’s vital role in amplifying women’s voices within the correctional system. She noted the importance of strengthening collaboration with the Kosovo Police Association to support women across security institutions and enhance their contribution to peace and security.

The Director of the Pre-Trial Detention Centre in Pejë/Peć, Ardita Blakaj, shared insights into women’s career development within the Kosovo Correctional Service. She acknowledged the challenges faced by women in advancing to decision-making roles, but she also emphasized that, with strong support from management and international partners, progress is visible and women’s contributions are increasingly being recognized, proving that unity and mutual support can drive institutional change.

The Head of the Kosovo Police Complaints Commission, Colonel Ahmet Nuredini, addressed the essential role of men in advancing the implementation of the Women, Peace and Security agenda. He underscored that gender equality is not just a women’s issue, but a collective strength that starts from within families and communities, and it extends to institutions. He stressed the need for engagement from all levels to ensure mutual respect, equal treatment, and inclusive leadership.

After hearing the inspiring stories shared by several female police and correctional officers, the Forum concluded with remarks from Velime Brestovci, Coordinator of the Association of Women in the Kosovo Police. who expressed gratitude to EULEX for its long-standing partnership and support. She reflected on the progress achieved since the adoption of UNSCR 1325, noting that women in uniform symbolize strength, resilience, and hope. Brestovci emphasized the need for a unified commitment to building trust, equality, and opportunity across all institutions for women in uniform.

Since 2013, EULEX has supported women’s participation, leadership, and professional development in the security sector, including the establishment of women’s associations in the Kosovo Police and Correctional Service, which act as vital platforms that empower, mentor, and inspire women in peace and security.

Women are not only part of peace and security, but they are also shaping it.