Kosovo’s Ministry of Justice has unveiled a new initiative aimed at transforming the behaviour of domestic violence offenders, with a strong focus on breaking the cycle of abuse and providing better support to victims. The initiative aligns with the Council of Europe’s efforts to reduce violence in the region and boost safety for survivors.
Minister of Justice Albulena Haxhiu introduced the initiative during a Council of Europe roundtable in Pristina, calling it a crucial step toward addressing domestic violence. Haxhiu noted that, up until now, offenders have faced penalties of fines or imprisonment for up to three years, although the maximum sentence has seldom been applied.
“For too long, abusers have completed their sentences and returned to society with unchanged attitudes, often leading to repeated offences,” Haxhiu said. “This initiative will focus on holding offenders accountable, making them more aware of the harm they’ve caused, and ultimately changing their behaviour.”
The project will use psycho-social methods to address aggressive behaviour and encourage respect in interpersonal relationships. It also aims to restore victims’ trust in Kosovo’s legal system by improving safety outcomes. Tankut Soykan, Deputy Head of the Council of Europe Office in Pristina, praised the initiative, describing it as a “vital step forward” in building a safer society.
According to the Council of Europe, domestic violence includes any physical, sexual, psychological, or economic abuse within a family unit or between partners. Kosovo Police report a rising number of domestic violence cases, with over 80% of survivors being women.
Kosovo’s new programme could serve as a framework for neighbouring countries in the Western Balkans, providing a model for offender rehabilitation throughout the region.
