On 18 December 2025, Terre des hommes in Kosovo, together with the Coalition of NGOs for Child Protection in Kosovo (KOMF), held the Annual Awards Ceremony for Journalism in Child Protection and the annual recognitions “Friend of Children 2025”, celebrating individuals and institutions whose commitment has made a meaningful difference in the lives of children in Kosovo.
The ceremony brought together representatives of civil society, institutions, media, and partners, highlighting the power of collective action in promoting children’s rights, protection, and well-being, particularly for those most at risk.
Friend of Children 2025: Recognising long-term commitment and impact
The Evaluation Panel for the “Friend of Children” nominations – composed of Blerta Perolli Shehu (Faculty of Education, University of Prishtina), Anita Çavdarbasha Korenica (Ombudsperson Institution), and Natyra Agani (Faculty of Philosophy, University of Prishtina), awarded four annual recognitions to four personalities and entities whose contributions throughout 2025 strengthened protection systems and improved children’s well-being.
Awardees
Embassy of Luxembourg in Kosovo
Under the leadership of Ambassador Eric Dietz, the Embassy has been a driving force behind one of the most transformative investments in early childhood health: the Home Visiting Programme for children aged 0–3. Implemented in 30 municipalities, the programme delivered 25,776 home visits, strengthening primary healthcare through early, preventive, and personalised support, especially for the most vulnerable families.
Watch the video to learn more about the impact.
Foster Family Mihrije and Imer Ahmeti (Municipality of Prishtina)
Honoured for providing shelter and care to 10 children without parental care, including children of different age groups, nationalities, and children with disabilities. Their dedication has profoundly supported children’s emotional and social rehabilitation, rebuilt trust, and fostered stable development, offering a healthy family model at a critical stage of life.
Watch the video to learn more about the impact.
Banka Kombëtare Tregtare (BKT Kosova)
Recognised for sustained support to children without parental care and those at risk of losing care. Bank employees donated hundreds of volunteer hours (with measurable monetary value) benefiting 30 children in alternative care and over 600 children in empowerment programmes. The bank doubled employees’ financial contributions, creating a matched-giving model that amplified real and lasting impact.
Watch the video to learn more about the impact.
Diaspora Donors: Irfan Perçuku, Bali Baliu, Arbren Grajqevci, Kenan Dema, Naser Dervishaj, Fitim Merovci
Awarded for their vital support to children with autism from families facing severe social and economic hardship. Between 2023–2025, their dedicated funding directly covered individual therapeutic services, ensuring continuity of care and improved outcomes for beneficiary children.
Watch the video to learn more about the impact.
Annual Journalism Awards 2025: Reporting that protects children
The Evaluation Panel for journalistic works – comprising Evliana Berani (journalist), Luljetë Prekazi (psychologist), and Imer Mushkolaj (journalist), selected four journalists whose investigative and human-centered reporting brought urgent child-related issues to the public agenda and prompted institutional action.
Awarded journalists and works
Besian Beha – Nacionale
Video report: “A Kick Against Racism”
The report centred on Belgin Jashari, a 15-year-old Ashkali footballer from Fushë Kosovë who was physically attacked and racially abused during a match. After three days of silence, the investigation broke the case open, triggering responses from institutions and civil society. The attacker was arrested, and the Football Federation of Kosovo sanctioned the responsible team. The story became a national moment of awareness against racism and violations of children’s rights, also highlighting solidarity from teammates, coaches, and the local club.
Albijona Hoxhaj – Betimi për Drejtësi
Investigative documentary: “Armed Adolescents Appear Fearlessly Online”
Over two months of fieldwork, the documentary exposed digital risks facing children, including the glorification of violence and weapons in Snapchat "shared stories". The investigation identified dozens of groups with around 500 members each, largely primary and secondary school students, operating without parental or institutional oversight. Following public pressure, several groups were shut down and others targeted by security institutions, underscoring the urgent need for shared responsibility and media literacy.
Herolind Ademi – Klan Kosova
Story: "What Is Happening in Schools?"
The investigation revealed the presence of narcotics in schools, documenting serious risks faced by children due to gaps in institutional care and social protection. Conducted in cooperation with the Kosovo Police—while fully respecting editorial independence and ethical standards—the report had an immediate impact, prompting police action that seized narcotics and led to official investigations by the Prosecutor’s Office.
Faton Polisi – Koha Group
Story: "Sara, the Footballer Who Inspires"
An inspiring profile of Sara Bulliqi, a 15-year-old girl missing part of her right arm, who refuses to let disability stop her dream of becoming a footballer. The story powerfully challenges stereotypes and celebrates resilience, inclusion, and children’s right to pursue their aspirations.
A shared commitment to children's rights
Through these awards, Terre des hommes in Kosovo reaffirms its commitment to strengthening child protection systems, promoting ethical and responsible journalism, and recognising those who turn solidarity into action. By amplifying voices, exposing injustice, and investing in care and prevention, this collective effort contributes to safer, more inclusive environments where every child in Kosovo can thrive.
