This research project was implemented by NGO Optima and NGO New Elite of Social Empowerment (NESE) with the aim of identifying the real needs and challenges faced by the Ashkali community in the municipalities of Prishtina and Fushë Kosova.
Through direct engagement with the community, the project provides a comprehensive overview of their living conditions, focusing on social, economic, educational, and health-related aspects.
The findings of this research are intended to support institutions and stakeholders in designing realistic and impactful development programs.
By providing data-driven insights, the project contributes to building sustainable strategies that promote equality, inclusion, and long-term empowerment of the Ashkali community.
Scope
- Research
- Social Inclusion
- Community Development
Partners & Support
- NGO NESE (New Elite of Social Empowerment)
- Office of the Prime Minister – Community Affairs Office
The Results
“Unemployment, lack of basic living conditions, and limited access to education remain some of the most pressing challenges faced by the Ashkali community.”
Understanding the Reality…
The research was conducted through direct fieldwork, including interviews and surveys with 614 members of the Ashkali community over a period of 40 days.
It explored key dimensions such as economic conditions, education, health, and community participation, offering a holistic understanding of the challenges faced by this community.
The results reveal high levels of unemployment, limited access to education, and significant socio-economic difficulties. At the same time, the research highlights a strong willingness within the community—especially among youth—to improve their conditions through education and employment opportunities.
The Results
This project brought forward the lived realities of the Ashkali community, transforming individual voices into concrete data that can no longer be ignored. By identifying urgent needs in education, employment, and social inclusion, the research has laid a strong foundation for institutions to take informed, targeted, and meaningful action.
Impact & Contribution
This project has contributed to creating a clear, evidence-based understanding of the socio-economic realities faced by the Ashkali community in Prishtina and Fushë Kosova. By collecting and analyzing first-hand data, the research provides institutions with reliable insights that are essential for designing targeted and effective development policies.
Beyond identifying challenges, the project plays a key role in shifting the approach from generalized interventions to tailored, community-specific solutions. It supports public institutions, NGOs, and development actors in aligning their programs with the real needs of the community, particularly in areas such as education, employment, and social inclusion.
The contribution of this research extends further by strengthening advocacy efforts for equal access to education and opportunities. It establishes a foundation for long-term engagement, enabling stakeholders to implement sustainable initiatives that directly improve the quality of life and future prospects of the Ashkali community.
614
Community members surveyed
60
Families without employed members
75
Completed only primary education
