In the words of Medinë Dauti: “I call for changes in our social fabric, envisioning a society where individuals are free from discrimination and oppression.”

Medinë Dauti, a 24-year-old advocate from Gjilan, Kosovo, is the founder of several community-based initiatives and a human rights activist with a particular emphasis on women's rights and the LGBTIQ+ community. Her journey is marked by determination and a steadfast commitment to challenge societal norms. In 2022 she bravely spoke out against sexual harassment by one of her high school teachers. Despite facing systemic barriers and bureaucratic obstacles, she pursued justice, and her resistance in the face of adversity serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to break their silence and demand accountability. Today she is a researcher at the Center for Information, Criticism and Action - QIKA. Medinë joined the UN Women’s "Imagine" campaign believing in the power of collective action to empower youth and drive positive change in communities.

“Gender-based violence remains a deeply entrenched issue within our society, often normalized within familial dynamics and accepted as a form of communication. Unfortunately, in many households, violence is seen as a means of asserting authority. A significant number of men in Kosovo perceive their dominance as legitimate, believing they inherently possess control over women. Consequently, women and girls frequently endure economic exploitation and social isolation, with such circumstances considered commonplace and harmful behaviors normalized.

At the age of 18, I confronted sexual harassment from my high school teacher, an ordeal that persisted for four years until the courts finally rendered a conviction. Despite consistently reporting the case to authorities and emphasizing the violation of my fundamental rights, he persisted in pursuing a relationship, which I vehemently rejected throughout those years. The violence inflicted upon me was not sporadic but rather systematic, perpetuated by institutional negligence and a lack of professionalism in addressing such cases. Regrettably, the institutions failed to comprehend the severity of the situation, repeatedly dismissing it as mere flirtation, highlighting the normalization of violence within Kosovar society.

This traumatic experience compelled me to confront the normalized violence surrounding me, leading to feelings of anxiety and distress as I realized the disparity between my life and what should be considered normal. The journey through court proceedings further depleted me physically and emotionally, underscoring the deep scars left by this experience. It took four years of relentless struggle and perseverance, along with the courage to make my story public, to finally achieve justice.

Despite the invaluable support from my family, friends, and colleagues, disclosing my story publicly was met with mixed reactions. Many in society, often turning a blind eye to discrimination, responded with denial—an example of the entrenched patriarchal culture resistant to gender issues and domestic violence. I recognize that societal mentality doesn't shift overnight, which is why I am fully committed to tirelessly working to motivate the younger generation to raise their voices and challenge the authority of patriarchal ideology.

Everyone should intervene when someone's well-being is compromised. Hence, I respond to every instance of discrimination and violence, urging others to report and take action as well. I advocate for changes in our social fabric, envisioning a society free from discrimination and oppression. It is essential to motivate women and girls facing gender-based violence and harassment, assuring them that they are not alone. They deserve better, and together, we can advocate for a more inclusive and equal society by promoting women's empowerment for increased economic independence, freedom, and opportunities.”