On the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence as a Weapon of War, the Acting Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Justice Donika Gërvalla and the Acting President of the Republic of Kosovo Albulena Haxhiu held a meeting with Vasfije Krasniqi Goodman, Ramadan Nishori, as well as representatives of the organizations Medica Kosova, Medica Gjakova, KRCT and the Center for the Promotion of Women’s Rights in Drenas.

“At such a moment, as a sign of respect for those who, for years, have stood by the survivors of sexual violence during the war, offering them support, documenting the truth and defending their right to justice and dignity. At a time when many were silent, they chose to listen. At a time when stigma weighed heavily on the victims, they chose to stand by them”, said Minister Gërvalla.

The courage and contribution of Vasfije Krasniqi Goodman and Ramadan Nishori who contributed by breaking the silence and stigma to advancing social and institutional awareness of this war crime was recognized in this meeting.

“Vasfije Krasniqi Goodman and Ramadan Nishori, with their extraordinary courage, gave voice to a pain that had been silenced for many years. It is thanks to them and organizations supporting them that our society progressed to recognizing the truth and respecting the dignity of survivors”, declared Minister Gërvalla.

There were discussions also on concrete steps to be taken by institutions to ensure more easy and dignified access for the realization of the rights of survivors, including reviewing the deadlines for application, exemption from court fees, creating more appropriate conditions for the functioning of the Verification Commission and guaranteeing a process that respects their dignity at every stage.

“Justice for wartime survivors of sexual violence is not just an institutional obligation. It is a state, moral and human responsibility. The Republic of Kosovo has a duty to continue to stand by them, by respecting, supporting and to show unwavering commitment for the truth, dignity and justice,” said Minister Gërvalla.