International Women’s Day 2025 Event in Peja Brings Art, Business, and Communities Together

Peja. International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8 is a global occasion to recognize the achievements and contributions of women in all areas of life while advocating for gender equality and women’s rights. It is also a call to action to address ongoing challenges, ensuring that every woman and girl—regardless of her background—has an equal opportunity to thrive. This year’s theme, "Rights, Empowerment, and Opportunities for Every Displaced Woman and Girl, Everywhere," highlights the importance of creating inclusive spaces where migrant, displaced, and diaspora women can access opportunities and shape their own futures. 

In Peja, IOM marked the date with an event that brought together around 100 people, including representatives from NGOs, civil society, local institutions and community members. The event served as a platform for both artistic expression and economic empowerment, featuring a business fair and an art exhibition.  

Most women who participated in the business fair have been supported through the EU-IOM Community Stabilization Programme (CSP), which fosters economic empowerment and social inclusion. Many of these beneficiaries have been working with IOM for several years, receiving support in the form of business development training, financial assistance, and mentorship to help them establish and grow their businesses. Through this programme they have been able to expand their market reach, develop sustainable business models, and strengthen their role in the local economy. The fair featured a diverse range of businesses from different municipalities, representing various ethnic backgrounds. 

Several businesses specialized in food production and processing, offering traditional and organic products such as ajvar, jams, pickles, dried fruits, honey and homemade sweets. Among them were agriculture cooperatives and small-scale producers from Istog, Peja, Klina, and Gjakova, each bringing their own local flavors and expertise. 

The fair also highlighted handicrafts and artisanal products, including embroidery, handmade jewelry, clothing, decorative candles, postcards, and handcrafted bags, created by talented women artisans and members of NGOs “Center for Independent Life” supporting people with disabilities.

In parallel, students from Peja’s art high school displayed their artworks dedicated to International Women’s Day. The paintings and installations reflected themes of empowerment, resilience, and equality, drawing admiration from attendees.

The event was well received by the community, with many attendees emphasizing the importance of such initiatives in fostering inclusion and empowerment. 

By combining art, business, and community engagement, this year’s IWD event in Peja reinforced the need for continued efforts in supporting women’s empowerment and economic independence. 

This initiative was made possible through the EU-IOM Community Stabilization Programme (CSP), supported by the Ministry for Communities and Return and the European Union in Kosovo.