Policy Pitch Night 2025

December 2025

Prishtina Institute for Political Studies (PIPS) hosted the Policy Pitch Night, where participants of the School of Politics 2025 presented the Policy Briefs they have been developing over the past months.

Through rigorous analysis and collaborative work, the groups addressed some of Kosovo’s most pressing policy challenges, offering fresh perspectives and actionable recommendations. 

The first Policy Brief, “The Role of the EU Growth Facility in Advancing Reform and Integration,” was presented by Alma Bajramaj and Sara Dumani. They highlighted Kosovo’s pivotal stage in its EU integration journey, with the new Growth Plan offering phased access to the Single Market and increased reform-linked support. The brief outlined how Kosovo can seize these opportunities for sustainable growth and EU convergence. 

Panel contributions:

Ilir Deda noted that Kosovo’s institutions still do not treat EU integration as a strategic priority, citing weak alignment and the absence of a dedicated ministry.

Artan Çollaku emphasized the need for timely reforms, political will, and investment-ready projects to avoid delays that could hinder Kosovo’s EU trajectory.

The second Policy Brief, “Rising Political Apathy among Youth in Kosovo,” was presented by Ardita Zeqiri and Lekë Morina. They highlighted the sharp decline in youth political engagement despite Kosovo’s young population and history of mobilization. The brief examines the socio-economic and institutional factors behind this trend and proposes ways to boost youth participation.

Panel contributions:

Butrint Berisha pointed to worrying disengagement trends among Gen Z and the lack of civic mobilization despite economic pressures.

Adri Nurellari underlined that while youth remain engaged, emigration and low social trust reduce their local presence; political youth forums often serve as career steps rather than empowerment spaces.

Paris Guri highlighted how criticism - online and within political circles - discourages youth from participating.

Trim Syla encouraged optimism, citing recent successes of young people in politics and calling for a stronger youth-centered agenda.

The third Policy Brief, “Hate Speech and Disinformation Targeting Women in Kosovo,” was presented by Artiola Babuni and Nora Dragaj. They discussed how digital communication has expanded participation while exposing women in public life to gendered harassment and disinformation. The brief proposes concrete measures for fostering a safer and more inclusive digital environment.

Panel contributions:

Flutura Kusari stressed that while media can amplify harmful narratives, politicians are often the main source of gendered attacks, making institutional action essential.

Festim Rizanaj warned about rising AI-generated content in political campaigns and its risks, underscoring the need for media literacy and responsible reporting.

This was an inspiring evening of discussion, learning, and collaboration—young leaders presenting bold ideas and receiving invaluable insights from expert panelists, shaping Kosovo’s future one policy at a time. 

This Policy Pitch Night was organized with the support of Demo Finland and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland.