Pristina, March 8, 2024 – On the occasion of the International Women’s Day, the Ombudsperson, Naim Qelaj, today hosted the group of parents advocating for the rights of children with disabilities from the Handikos organization, presenting an exhibition of their paintings.

The Ombudsperson’s Institution showcased the exhibition “Bouquet of Hearts” in its premises through which 16 mothers of children with disabilities have conveyed the message of motivation, strength and support in the face of the challenges they go through.

The Ombudsperson said that this day, in addition to the festive symbolism, will offer us the experiences and challenges of mothers of children with disabilities and the disabled women too, who can be an important source for the Ombudsperson within the framework of the constitutional and legal mandate to address those issues to the relevant authorities.

Gresa Stublla, program manager at Handikos, said that during the provision of social services for children, the need appeared to care for and support mothers as well, so that they are safe with someone too, thus starting projects that include parents of children with disabilities.

Mimoza Rrahmani, coordinator of this group, said that on the occasion of women’s day, we show the paintings of 16 mothers who symbolize the embodiment of strength, courage and above all the great love that comes from their hearts.

The Ombudsperson heard about the experiences and challenges of mothers of children with disabilities, who listed several things, such as limited access to public spaces for people with disabilities, equipping them with assistive devices, and including the Convention of the rights of persons with disabilities in the Constitution of the Republic of Kosovo, which will guarantee more complete rights for these citizens.

He added that together with his colleagues he will continue to work to change and improve the situation of people with disabilities, emphasizing his recent reports regarding free access to public spaces, their well-being and facilitation of care for families by the authorities.