On the occasion of May 15, the International Day of Families, the Ministry of Labor, Family and War Veterans organized a closing event with the participation of families, children, partner institutions, and non-governmental organizations, highlighting the importance of family and institutional support for social welfare in Kosovo.
The Minister of Labor, Family and War Veterans, Andin Hoti, said in his speech that the family remains the foundation of society and the place where the most important human values are built.
“Today is a day of joy, unity, and gratitude for the most important people in our lives — the family. The family is the place where we receive our first love, our first support, and the values that guide us throughout our lives. Precisely for this reason, today we chose to be together in a festive atmosphere with children, parents, grandparents, and young people, to appreciate the importance of the family in our society. This year’s slogan is ‘The state begins with the family,’ because education, solidarity, respect, and care for one another all begin within the family. As Minister of Labor, Family and War Veterans, I remain committed to ensuring that the family is always at the center of our policies and that every family in the Republic of Kosovo feels supported and valued,” Hoti said.
Partner organizations also participated in the event, including UNICEF, OFAP (Organization for Children without Parental Care), SOS Children’s Village, and Terre des Hommes, all of which emphasized the importance of family and support for children.
The executive director of OFAP, Ibadete Krasniqi, said that the organization she represents has been cooperating for more than 20 years with central and municipal authorities to develop foster care in Kosovo.
“The family is where everything begins: the first love, the feeling of security, support in the most difficult moments, and the strength to move forward. It is an emotional shelter where every person should feel accepted, protected, and loved. But today also reminds us of the responsibility we have as a society toward children who have not had the opportunity to grow up with their biological families. For these children, foster care is not just a social service; it is a second chance for life, belonging, and hope. Every child deserves to wake up in an environment where they hear kind words, feel the embrace and care of parents, and learn how important it is to grow up in a warm family environment,” Krasniqi said.
As part of the event, the ministry honored journalists and media representatives with certificates of appreciation for their contribution to reporting on social issues and their role as a bridge between institutions and citizens.
The event concluded with dances, music, and festive activities for children and families, in an atmosphere of unity and solidarity marking the International Day of Families.
