Country Information
Founded: 1918 – Formation of Yugoslavia; Kosovo declared independence in 1991 but still struggles to gain international recognition.
Land Area: 10,887 Square Kilometers (¾ the size of Connecticut)
Climate: continental to Mediterranean
Agricultural Land Usability: unavailable data
Natural Hazards: earthquakes
Environmental issues: unavailable data
The People
Population: 2 million (estimated)
Infant Mortality Rate: unavailable data
Life Expectancy: 74 years
Major Diseases: unavailable data
Religions: unavailable breakdown Predominantly Muslim
Literacy Rate: 96%
Unemployment rate: 32%
Population below the UN-established Poverty Line: 30% (estimate, NGOs operating in area have claimed more than 40%)
Special Conditions
The issue of Kosovo independence is hotly contested. Currently several thousand UN Peacekeepers are on mission in the region since 1999 with Kosovo Albanians (roughly 87% of the population) supporting the cause of independence.
This ongoing conflict has caused a great deal of economic strain on Kosovo as well as a spiritual demoralization of the population.
Identifying the Need
Currently the best aid which NGOs can provide is food and basic supplies distributions to the families in poverty.
Once Kosovo independence is solidified it will be easier to clarify broader areas of need for sustainable projects.
How The Zakat Foundation Has Responded
Ramadan Programs
Kosovo is in a constant state of upheaval; as such the month of Ramadan comes as a welcome respite from the ongoing struggles. Community iftars and food package distributions help the people of Kosovo to have joy and prosperity for a time of spiritual uplifting. Ramadan is a blessed month to the whole world; but for those who benefit from Zakat Foundation’s food distribution it becomes especially blessed.
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Udhiya / Qurbani Distribution
The meats of Eid al-Adha are a wonderful supplement to the Kosovo people who suffer under oppression and conflict.
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