Approximately 37,000 veterans receive benefits in Kosovo for their role in the 1998/99 war, with women constituting just over 3,600. Albina Haradinaj, a 42-year-old former soldier, exemplifies this disparity. Despite her recognition as a veteran, public acknowledgment of women's contributions is minimal. During the war, young people mobilized collectively, feeling a responsibility to contribute. While male veterans receive recognition, women like Haradinaj express frustration over the lack of appreciation for their service and experience discrimination in societal valuing of their roles.
Almost all of us young people at the time mobilized, and most ended up in the war. It was that collective energy – you knew you had no other choice; everyone had to make their contribution in their own way.
They often give certificates of appreciation, especially on March 8 [International Women's Day], to teachers or police officers, but I've never heard of one going to women war veterans.
We were there with them with Shkelzen Haradinaj, a great hero – I was there, too. But society doesn't value my contribution the same way it values my husband's. It's discrimination.
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