Exploring Challenges, Opportunities, and Recommendations for Kosovo’s Digital Rights Framework
The Institute for Technology and Society (ITS) proudly presents its report, Legal Landscape of Digital Rights in Kosovo. This pivotal study examines the intersection of digital transformation and human rights in Kosovo, focusing on privacy, freedom of expression, cybersecurity, and governance.
Supported by the HumanRightivism project, funded by the Swedish Embassy in Pristina and implemented by the Community Development Fund, the report provides a thorough analysis of Kosovo’s progress in aligning its digital rights framework with international standards.
This report provides an in-depth analysis of:
- International and Regional Frameworks: How global standards shape digital rights in Kosovo.
- Cybersecurity and Data Protection: Assessing gaps in legislation and implementation.
- Freedom of Expression Online: Tackling hate speech, disinformation, and content moderation.
- Digital Governance and Infrastructure: Evaluating e-governance and the implications of Kosovo’s lack of a country code top-level domain (ccTLD).
Key Findings:
- Kosovo has made strides in digital transformation but lacks robust cybersecurity frameworks and effective institutional capacities.
- Despite comprehensive data protection laws, public institutions show inconsistent adherence to privacy standards.
- Freedom of expression online is hindered by inadequate content moderation policies and the absence of regulations for harmful digital expressions.
- The lack of a national ccTLD restricts Kosovo’s digital sovereignty and exposes its citizens to legal and cybersecurity risks.
- Limited public awareness weakens the exercise of digital rights, including privacy, cybersecurity, and access to information.
Recommendations:
To enhance digital rights in Kosovo, the report proposes:
- Establishing and operationalizing the Cybersecurity Agency with adequate resources.
- Strengthening enforcement mechanisms for data protection and cybersecurity laws.
- Developing a comprehensive strategy to combat misinformation and improve media literacy.
- Pursuing diplomatic and legal efforts to secure Kosovo’s ccTLD.
- Enhancing public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on their digital rights.
Why It Matters:
As Kosovo advances digitally, ensuring the protection of human rights in the online sphere is critical. This report serves as a resource for stakeholders to address gaps in policy and infrastructure, fostering a safe and inclusive digital environment.
The full report in English and Albanian is available for download. Explore its findings and contribute to the dialogue on strengthening digital rights in Kosovo: