The Republic of Kosovo is the youngest country in the world and gained full independence from Serbia on February 17th, 2008. Kosovo is populated by 1.8 millions inhabitants. 88% or them are ethnic-albanians and there are also strong serbian and roma minorities. 

For consultation of the Country Sheet, containing detailed information about Kosovo, please click here (English version)/click here (Albanian version)/click here (Dutch version) / click here (French version) 

Caritas Kosovo was founded in 1992, though before that some parish groups in Kosovo were already implementing and carrying out charity activities. Due to the political situation of Kosovo during the 90’s, Caritas Kosovo's main concern was to develop an aid distribution program in order to answer to the needs of the poorest. During this period only a few people were directly involved in the charity actions. In 1999, Caritas Kosovo made some positive changes in their work methodology, supported by the Caritas Network Members, who established their presence in Kosovo during the emergency period. Since that period Caritas Kosovo grew up while creating a wide range of activities spread all over the region.

Over the last years many projects, programs and staff of other National Caritas have been integrated into Caritas Kosovo. Caritas Kosovo also increased its territorial action and worked not only in Ferizaj where the Headquarter is based, but started to work also with the integrated Caritas centres in Prizren, Gjilan, Mitrovicë, Peje, Gjakove, etc. Some of the main projects are: national programs to help people with physical and learning difficulties, provision of basic needs for families in extreme poverty, social support and activities for children and orphans; health support for people, etc.

More information about the activities of Caritas Kosovo can be found on their website: http://caritas-kosova.org/

Jakup Sabedini has been the local contact person of Caritas Belgium in Kosovo since 2009. When returnees call the office of Caritas Kosovo after returning, they get in touch with him. Since 2008, 28 returnees have been assisted through the program. 

Mister Burgos returned in March 2009 to Podujevo, a town and municipality located in the district of Pristina of north-eastern Kosovo. In the beginning he had the idea to use the budget to buy some agriculture materials for him to be able to work on the land, or maybe if possible two cows. He and his family have a lot of experience in agriculture. The moment he arrived in Kosovo he took contact with Caritas Kosovo to discuss his plan.

After some time and after he looked at all the options he decided to buy 10 sheep. One sheep costs 100 Euro. He used the 700 Euros of his reintegration budget and his family also invested some money. 

For any question concerning reintegration in Kosovo, please contact:

Stefanie Duysens

+32 2 211 10 52

s.duysens@caritasint.be