The Kosova Women’s Network (KWN) is deeply concerned that the Government of Kosovo has cut the budget of the University Clinical Center of Kosovo by 2 million euros.

If the budget for financing medical services is cut, it will significantly affect the lives of women in Kosovo. KWN research has shown that women in particular tend to lack access to quality medical services, due in part to insufficient finances within their families. While wealthier people can access private clinics, the poor will suffer from these budget cuts. According to World Bank studies, more than 50% of in Kosovo’s population lives in poverty, and 12% live in extreme poverty. Limited medical services are provided by Health Houses in municipalities, and the University Clinic Center remains the only provider of some services.

The government needs to reconsider its priorities. Considering its commitments to the Millennium Development Goals, the government should be seeking to expedite general reforms of the healthcare system and improve the quality of public healthcare available. A healthcare budget of only 52 euros per person per year is insufficient. These budget cuts will only further the country’s existing healthcare crisis; citizens, and especially women, will be unable to treat easily preventable diseases. KWN calls on the Government of Kosovo to immediately reconsider this decision.

The Kosova Women’s Network is a network that advocates on behalf of more than 80 women’s organizations of all ethnic groups from throughout Kosova. KWN supports, protects and promotes the rights and interests of women and girls throughout Kosova, regardless of their political beliefs, religion, age, level of education, sexual orientation and ability. KWN fulfills its mission through the exchange of experience and information, partnership and networking, research, advocacy, and service.

Sincerely,

Igballe Rogova, Executive Director
Kosova Women’s Network
Mobil: +377 (44) 111 965