As part of activities marking May 9, Europe Day, BIRN Kosovo premiered a documentary “Kosovo’s Path Towards Integration – A Journey Supported by the European Union,” on May 8, highlighting the impact of European Union investments in and support for Kosovo over the years.
The documentary contains testimonies from institutional representatives, civil society actors, media professionals, students and business owners, reflecting on the EU’s contribution to Kosovo’s development. The film focuses on the bloc’s role in infrastructure development and capacity-building across various sectors. It showcases the tangible effects of European Union support for Kosovo’s democratic development, public institutions and broader society.
Around 60 participants attended the documentary launch, including representatives of various institutions, civil society organisations and the media and business community.
The Acting Head of the EU Office in Kosovo, Eva Palatova, described the documentary as a story of resilience and progress.
“This documentary tells a story of resilience, determination and progress. It shows how the European Union has supported Kosovo’s institutions and contributed to improving everyday life. The European Union has been and continues to be Kosovo’s strongest partner and largest provider of assistance,” Palatova said.
She noted that, since 1999, more than 3.7 billion euros have been invested in various sectors in Kosovo, while EU support continues through assistance to the country’s European integration process. According to Palatova, this support extends beyond financial assistance and includes backing for democratic development, independent media, environmental protection and equal opportunities.
Speaking on behalf of the government of Kosovo, Jeton Zulfaj, Kosovo’s Chief Negotiator with the EU, underlined the importance of European values for Kosovo’s future and development.
“Europe Day reminds us of the importance of peace as a precondition for socio-economic prosperity, as well as the importance of shared institutions, cooperation, and solidarity that bring well-being and development,” Zulfaj said during the launch of the documentary.
One of the sectors that has received significant EU investment in Kosovo is the judiciary. Arjeta Sadiku, Deputy Chair of the Kosovo Judicial Council, praised the EU’s contribution to strengthening Kosovo’s judicial system.
“The EU’s contribution has been concrete and multidimensional. One of the most important developments has been the support for the establishment of the Central Criminal Records system,” Sadiku said.
This activity is supported by the EU-funded project “Strengthen the Role and Capacities of Investigative Journalism in Kosovo”, implemented by BIRN Kosovo, the Press Council of Kosovo, and TV Mreza.