Women who survived sexual violence during the war in Kosovo are using art and agriculture to share their stories and reclaim their lives. Their handmade works, ranging from colorful paintings to homegrown produce, were displayed on Monday at the “Empowerment Fair – Products with a History of Life and Resilience” in Pristina.
The three-day fair, held in Adem Jashari Square from May 19–21, is organized by Medica Gjakova with support from the United Nations Trust Fund and partner organizations of the “Be a Voice” platform.
“The aim of the fair is to tell another side of the survivors’ stories – one of strength and economic empowerment,” said Dorina Babuni Krelani from Medica Gjakova. “All the products here are made by survivors. Through this, we advocate for their resilience and offer them new economic opportunities.”
On display are paintings, handwoven items, bags, brooches, and decorative frames, all crafted by women who endured sexual abuse during the 1998–99 conflict. Agro-cultural goods such as honey, jams, and nuts are also being sold.
“All profits from the sales go directly to the survivors who made the products,” Krelani said. “Economic empowerment changes a woman’s role in the family and in society. It also plays a key role in her personal healing.”
After Pristina, the fair will continue in six other major municipalities across Kosovo – Gjakova, Prizren, Peja, Ferizaj, Gjilan, and South Mitrovica.
While the exact number of women raped during the war remains unknown, estimates suggest around 20,000. Many survivors still fear stigma and remain silent, making platforms like this vital for visibility and support.