The Ombudsperson, Mr. Naim Qelaj, Meets with Representatives of the Kosovo Women’s Economic Forum

The Ombudsperson of Kosovo, Mr. Naim Qelaj, met with representatives of the Kosovo Women’s Economic Forum — a platform of civil society organizations advocating for improved conditions for women in the labor market. Among the key topics discussed in the meeting were the delay in amending the Labor Law, the issue of maternity leave payments, and other matters related to gender equality.

The Forum’s Coordinator, Ms. Saxhide Mustafa, emphasized that without these reforms, greater inclusion of women in the labor market cannot be achieved — a market where women's participation remains at a very low level. She noted that civil society organizations have conducted various analyses and research on these issues and expect institutions to involve them in the creation of social and economic policies. Ombudsperson Qelaj underlined the importance of aligning Kosovo’s legislation with European Union standards, especially laws focused on workers’ rights — including gender equality, workplace safety and health, respect for employees’ rights, and social dialogue.

It was mutually agreed that transparency and inclusiveness in the legislative process are essential to adopting laws that are enforceable in practice and that contribute to improving citizens’ lives and advancing human rights.