Review on the Situation of Children with Disabilities in Inclusive Education in Kosovo

Inclusive education for children with disabilities is a significant global concern, with the goal of ensuring equitable access to education for all. Kosovo’s commitment to inclusive education is reflected in its alignment with international conventions and national legislation. The Constitution of Kosovo guarantees equal rights to all citizens, including those with disabilities. Additionally, Kosovo has ratified the CRPD, committing to ensuring that persons with disabilities have access to an inclusive, quality, and free education on an equal basis with others. Despite these legal foundations, challenges in implementation persist. Legal provisions often fail to translate into practice due to limited financial resources, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient teacher training. The gap between policy and practice leaves many children with disabilities either segregated in special schools or marginalized within mainstream schools, without appropriate support. This paper provides an overview of the current situation regarding inclusive education in Kosovo from recent studies and reports focusing on the legal frameworks, implementation practices, and the socio-cultural barriers that impact the quality of education for children with disabilities. It examines key factors such as teacher preparedness, infrastructure accessibility, societal attitudes, and parental involvement, which contribute to either the success or failure of inclusive education. Additionally, it discusses the role of international organizations, local non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the Kosovo government in promoting inclusive education. The analysis concludes by recommendations to overcome the identified challenges, emphasizing the need for systemic changes, professional development for educators, provision of support services and stronger collaboration between stakeholders.