Modern queer history is filled with rich, vivid and diverse experiences. LGBTQ+ people have resiliently fought for greater visibility, solidarity and progress as individuals and as a collective. Wars, education, science, mainstream media, arts, music, theater, entertainment, design and poetry have all influenced queer people in one way or another. Each individual, through their unique personal journey, has played a role in crafting the formation of queer history, leading us to where we are today.

Political and social development occurs differently in various countries and regions around the world; the case of Kosovo’s mass queer movement is no exception. While we can never pin down the specific moment in which the movement started, we see that from the early 2000s and onwards, more visible efforts have brought it into the public eye. LGBTQ+ individuals from across Kosovo and beyond moved to Prishtina — for work, education or to find freedom — people gradually began exchanging experiences and interactions. Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) were established and parties started organizing on a larger scale, no longer confined to gatherings in private homes. Notably, Aldi Hotel, which opened in the early 1990s, embraced queer guests without discrimination, a first and only queer friendly establishment open at the time.  

Nevertheless, this progress was met with backlash. Queer individuals faced occasional attacks, encountered refusal of treatment for their wounds from doctors and endured mockery from police officers when reporting assaults. The first queer bar had to close and its owner fled the country. K2.0 was attacked at a discussion and launch event for its SEX issue. Despite these challenges, a revolution was underway in this small country.

Kosovo has made remarkable progress in the last decade. 12 years ago, we wouldn’t have felt safe writing this article. Based on our observations and conversations with people, Kosovars’ mindset and attitudes, especially in Prishtina, are increasingly respectful of everyone’s personal freedom to live and love as they choose. In other words, the country is becoming more tolerant — and indifferent — towards queer progress. 

Legal steps forward

The most significant legal achievement to date came in 2019, when Blert Morina won legal affirmation of his right to legally change his sex identification. This ruling set an important precedent for future cases in Kosovo, confirming that individuals have a say in their personal identity and marking a major step forward in the fight for transgender rights. 

Although Morina’s legal victory offered hope to many in the community, the legal landscape for same-sex marriage in Kosovo remains ambiguous. While the constitution grants everyone the right to marry based on free will, Law No. 2004/32 Family Law of Kosovo explicitly defines marriage as a union between “two persons of different sexes.” In 2022, Kosovo’s parliament rejected a proposed law that would have allowed same-sex couples to form civil partnerships, leaving the issue unresolved and highlighting the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights in the country. 

Consistent progress requires persistent vigilance and effort. “The problem with queer progress is that we always have to fight for our voices to be heard,” said Morina, when we talked to him about queer history in Kosovo. “Each step forward often feels like an ongoing struggle for fairness. As soon as one milestone is reached, there’s already a need to push for the next cause to ensure equal treatment.” 

Morina, who is now the executive director of The Center for Equality and Liberty (CEL), added that “Sometimes, progress can appear as no more than a passing show for mainstream audiences to acknowledge our pleading case before moving on to the next issue that captures their attention.” 

Local activists making a difference

Every year, Prishtina bursts with life during the week-long annual Prishtina Pride festivities, thanks to the dedicated efforts of queer NGOs and their allies. This celebration of unity and diversity honors the struggles for equality and is a vital event for advocacy and visibility. A number of the organizations whose unceasing advocacy has made these festivities possible are worthy of being highlighted.

Dylberizm is the premier Albanian language online platform dedicated to LGBTQ+ issues. This forum emerged in 2018 from a necessity for dignified representation and storytelling.

The upcoming Prishtina Queer Festival, in its second year, promises an enriching experience, celebrating local and international queer culture through a diverse program of events and films.

Hyjneshat, a cultural movement, focuses on creating safer spaces and promoting queer culture in Kosovo. 

CEL’s Support Program ensures that individuals in the queer community have access to a secure and supportive environment. The program fosters a sense of belonging and solidarity among members and offers a range of services, including counseling, support groups, legal aid and community resources.

CEL has also created the Archive of LGBTI+ Movement in Kosovo, aiming to preserve and present the authentic experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals across historical journeys, personal narratives and newspaper articles.

Similarly, the Center for Social Group Development (CSGD)’s drop-in center offers a welcoming space for community members, providing access to resources and services such as legal aid, counseling and HIV testing.

Sekhmet, a young queer NGO, contributes to the democratization of Kosovo by supporting inclusive social and cultural change. Its research, documentation and cultural and artistic productions, aim to reshape societal norms. One of its notable achievements is a mural on the University of Prishtina campus depicting our two queer pioneers, Mustafa and Qerkica, in a heartwarming display of affection.

Bubble Pub, the sole queer pub in Prishtina and a haven for LGBTQ+ individuals in Kosovo, recently marked its second anniversary with spirited DJs, captivating drag performances and a dance floor, all of which offered vibrant entertainment and a sense of belonging.

Finally, Queen’s Corner, a salon that employs queer people and caters to the queer community and beyond, embodies empowerment and inclusivity, striving to redefine beauty and contribute to social change.

Individual activism

Individual queer activists have also made an indelible mark on the movement in Kosovo, with many pioneering figures shaping the landscape of queer activism. The progress since 2000 is a testament to how far the movement has come. Many queer activists who once lived in the shadows now have their voices heard louder than ever before. This bravery itself should empower the next generation to carry the torch until equal rights are achieved.

Mustafa found his true calling by opening his home to queer individuals, providing refuge and support to those in need.

Igballe Rogova — the executive director of the Kosovo Women’s Network and pioneering human rights activist over the past decades — has dedicated her career to championing equality and is a luminary in the field of human rights advocacy. Her commitment to justice and equality has left a lasting mark on the field. Should our government ever institute honorary awards for those who fight for equality, Rogova undoubtedly deserves to be the first honored.

Qerkica embodies more than just a mother figure within the community; she serves as a maternal figure to many. Her compassion knows no limits, offering shelter to queer individuals rejected by their families. Her dedication to the LGBTQ+ cause is further evidenced by being chosen as an honorary grand marshal of the Prishtina Pride for several consecutive years.

Since 2006, Rajmonda Sylbije-Mona has been a prominent human rights activist in Kosovo. She stands out as one of the pioneering voices addressing LGBTQ+ issues openly in the region. In 2014, she initiated a groundbreaking project to provide free psychological assistance to LGBTQ+ individuals. Today, she continues her advocacy and leadership as the Director of Programs at the CSGD.

Morina and Lend Mustafa have since carried the torch forward, fearlessly displaying vulnerability and sharing their inspiring personal journeys. Their advocacy resonates loudly, and they are widely recognized as public figures. Just a quick Google search of their names reveals the impact they’ve made, their efforts intertwining seamlessly to champion their cause. Morina’s boundless energy fuels his ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights, while Mustafa’s commitment extends to managing Bubble Pub, Bubble Foundation and assisting those in need in any way required.

Liki’s avant-garde performances challenge audiences to look beyond the familiar, pushing the boundaries of art and expression. Through her work, she continues to shape queer history and inspire imagination.

Adelina Rose, a multifaceted artist, activist and drag queen, has graced stages with performances that resonate deeply within the LGBTQ+ community. Their captivating presence not only entertains but also uplifts and inspires queer attendees, both locally and internationally.

And, Diva commands attention as an activist, performer and makeup artist. With over 14,000 followers on Instagram, he defies societal norms with confidence.

These individuals, among others, with their courage, have cemented their place in Kosovo’s queer history, paving the way for a brighter and more diverse tomorrow.

Queer history teaches us that visibility matters. From Harvey Milk to Ellen DeGeneres to Sir Elton John to Kosovo’s latest sensation, Edona James, coming out has not only liberated individuals but also sparked movements that reshape our cultural landscape. 

The unfinished story of queer history and the journey toward acceptance is ongoing. With each step forward, we draw nearer to a world where love triumphs over discrimination and prejudice. We must persist in our fight for what we deserve in our society that often undervalues and diminishes us, and that includes equal rights. Indeed, let us envision a future where queer history is not just acknowledged but celebrated, honored and cherished by succeeding eras.

Feature image: Photo courtesy of CEL

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