On April 3, USAID’s Engagement for Equity activity and the Advocacy Training and Resource Center (ATRC) held a workshop on overcoming marginalization in Kosovo.  The event, which brought together stakeholders from the Government of Kosovo and civil society as well as human rights activists, highlighted the need for greater collaboration to improve the integration of vulnerable and marginalized groups. Event organizers presented achievements, best practices, and results, and used data to evaluate civil society’s impact and develop joint advocacy initiatives.

Mission Director Lisa Magno congratulated participants on the creation of the Law on the Freedom of Association of Non-Governmental Organizations, and commended civil society organizations for working together on women’s property rights and a new law protecting the rights of people with disabilities. 

Since February 2015, USAID's Engagement for Equity has been working to improve the integration of vulnerable and marginalized groups as both a matter of human rights and sustainable development. To date, through this activity USAID has provided grants to 74 civil society organizations and helped create 120 policy recommendations on women in governance and the economy, women’s property rights, and rights of people with disabilities, youth, and vulnerable communities.