Youth Study Kosovo 2018 / 2019 the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung

YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018 / 2019 THE FRIEDRICH-EBERT-STIFTUNG

The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) is the oldest political foundation in Germany, with a rich tradition in social democracy dating back to 1925. The work of our political foundation revolves around the core ideas and values of social democracy – freedom, justice and solidarity. This is what binds us to the principles of social democracy and free trade unions. With our international network of offices in more than 100 countries, we support a policy for peaceful cooperation and human rights, promote the establishment and consolidation of democratic, social and constitutional structures and work as pioneers for free trade unions and a strong civil society. We are actively involved in promoting a social, democratic and competitive Europe in the process of European integration.

YOUTH STUDIES SOUTHEAST EUROPE 2018/2019:

“FES Youth Studies Southeast Europe 2018/2019” is an international youth research project carried out simultaneously in ten countries in Southeast Europe: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Kosovo, Macedonia, Montenegro, Romania, Serbia and Slovenia. The main objective of the surveys has been to identify, describe and analyse attitudes of young people and patterns of behaviour in contemporary society. The data was collected in early 2018 from more than 10,000 respondents aged 14–29 in the above-mentioned countries who participated in the survey. A broad range of issues were ad- dressed, including young peoples’ experiences and aspirations in different realms of life, such as education, employment, political participation, family relationships, leisure and use of information and communications technology, but also their values, attitudes and beliefs. Findings are presented in ten national and one regional study and its accompanying policy papers, which have been published in both English and the respective national languages. YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

Oltion Rrumbullaku IDRA Research & Consulting

1 Introduction ...... 3

2 Executive Summary ...... 5

3 Methodology ...... 9

4 Values, religion and trust ...... 13

5 Lifestyle and leisure ...... 21

6 Family and Society ...... 31

7 Education ...... 39

8 Employment ...... 45

9 Democracy and Government ...... 53

10 Aspirations to Migrate ...... 67

11 Kosovo identity, EU and neighbour countries ...... 75

12 Conclusions ...... 83

Footnotes ...... 84 References ...... 84 Table of figures...... 85 Table of tables ...... 86

3 1

INTRODUCTION

The main objective of this study is to measure, describe and ex- In particular, young people from the countries of the former Yu- plain the main attitudes, beliefs and values of the young Kosovar goslavia, and more specifically, the Kosovars, have witnessed population in terms of: society, economy, education and employ- more dramatic and striking events: the war, the collapse of the ment, integration into the European Union, religion, family, social federal country and separation into smaller independent states, life and lifestyle preferences. the transition from communism to capitalism, the long process of It is believed that the young generation of this group (born transition, privatisation of social ownership, visa bans, changes in between 1989 to 2004), considered to be mostly similar to Gen- currencies, high rates of unemployment and poverty, high rates eration Z or post-millennials, have a very specific and unique set of migration, etc. On the other hand, they witnessed an era char- of values, characteristics and preferences because these young acterised by innovations such as computers, mobile phones and people have witnessed many social and economic transformations the Internet, which have amounted to a kind of revolution and in their recent past, while it is a generation that has been using the beginning of a new, contemporary way of life, features of the the Internet since a young age and its members are generally 21st century. comfortable with technology and interacting using social media. The research is based on a country-wide, representative sur- Like many Western Balkan states, Kosovo is still in transition. vey that was conducted in Kosovo among young people aged Kosovo is still trying to find its way between Europe and its past between 14 and 29 from December 2017 to January 2018. It is as it wrestles with values, integration models, and the security orientated towards the Shell Youth Study, which has been peri- issues associated with this transition. odically conducted in Germany since 1953 and has proven to be The long road to building a new country with a democratic a valuable indicator of a society’s mid-term development. The society and a free market economy is far from being completed. Friedrich Ebert Stiftung has carried out a series of similar studies In addition, the country faces challenges in the form of its com- in Western Balkan countries as well as a previous study in Koso- plicated relations with Serbia, which are responsible for its isolation vo in 2012. as well as difficulties in the process of Europe Integration. Most young people live with their family, mostly for practical This study explores the worries, aspirations, values, and life- reasons, or simply because it is the traditional way of living. In the styles of Kosovo’s youth. Young people who are today aged be- future, they wish to get married – at the age of 26 – 28 – and tween 14 and 29 grew up mostly after the separation of Kosovo generally have three children. There is a low level of participation from Serbia in an independent Kosovo, so we can refer to them in voluntary activities and a high degree of homophobia, suggest- as “the generation of independence”. This generation is an impor- ing a low degree of diversity. tant factor in the future development of Kosovo society.

5 2

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Applying a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, Kosovo. Young people in Kosovo are overly optimistic about the Youth Study in Kosovo 2018 reveals the attitudes, opinions, their personal future. They are also very optimistic about the and expectations of the country’s young people. The findings future of Kosovar society in general. Females and people living show the present-day life of young people in Kosovo in the con- in urban areas are more optimistic than their counterparts. text of family-based values, contradictions between education —— There has been a significant increase in the preferred age of and employment realities, as well as in the traditional cultural and marriage for men, both among males and females, amount- national context. ing to at least two years compared to the previous Youth This study aims to present the key issues regarding family life- Study of 2012. Although young people plan to marry and style, political participation, education, employment, mobility and have their first child after the age of 25, they still want to relations with neighbouring countries from the perspective of have a large number of children and large families. Kosovo youth. —— Young people are mostly dissatisfied with the quality of edu- Young people in Kosovo are fairly traditional. Our study showed cation in Kosovo. Only 23 % can be considered satisfied with that they are very dependent on their parents – mostly in moral the quality of education, which is one of the lowest percent- and material terms – and they would still prefer to be part of large ages in the entire region. Moreover, Kosovo is the only coun- families in the future. This young generation has a very specific set try that has seen a decline in the level of satisfaction with the of values based on tradition, is starting to witness some social quality of education. More than 56 % of young people most- changes, and all in all is growing up in a very intense period of ly agree that there are cases of bribery in institutions/univer- technological innovation. sities in Kosovo. This phenomenon is more widespread in urban areas. —— The majority of young people that participate in the job mar- MAIN FINDINGS ket appear not to work in their occupation. As a result, there is a considerable mismatch between young people’s expecta- —— The family represents the most important institution for tions of the job market and existing needs regarding the la- Kosovo youth in almost all the most relevant areas of life, as bour force. On the positive side, young people that have per- almost all respondents believe that a person needs a family in formed internships and practical positions during their studies order to have a better life. The family offers a stability that appear to have greater chances of finding a job more related cannot be provided by friends, job, or political situation. to their occupation. —— Young people in Kosovo are generally very satisfied with their —— Job security is the main factor that young people in Kosovo lives. The fact that the country is considered not to be devel- consider in choosing a job. This implies a strong concern with oped and that young people are satisfied with their life employees’ rights, lengthy hours of work, problems with sal- should be considered problematic, as there is less motivation aries, etc. Those who are more concerned about job security for young people to contribute to the development of have a greater desire to work in the public sector and are less 6 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

satisfied with the quality of education in Kosovo. In the last —— Nearly half of young Kosovo Albanians have a moderate to five years, there has been a notable increase in the preferenc- very strong intention to leave Kosovo. Economic reasons are es of young people regarding work in the public sector. This cited as the main cause for migration by those who want to large appetite for the public sector appears to be shared by leave Kosovo for another country. On the other hand, just 70 per cent of respondents. one-quarter of young people from Kosovo who are willing to —— Just 10 % of young Kosovars are of the opinion that their in- migrate have a good working knowledge of the language terests are “well” represented in national politics. This view- spoken in their planned country of destination, indicating point about a lack of representation closely aligns with the that they do not prepare in advance for migration. main demographic traits of the young population (urban, gender, age, etc.). There has been a dramatic decrease in youth people’s interest in political events compared to 2012. —— There is record distrust and apathy among Kosovar youth towards all political institutions, and especially the political parties and national government. Moreover, there is pronounced scepticism among youth regarding civil society organisations and media outlets. On the other side of the equation, there is greater trust in religious institutions and international organisations like NATO and the OSCE.

9 3

METHODOLOGY

QUANTITATIVE COMPONENT Step 2: Selection of household within PSU Enumerators were assigned a randomly selected starting point A representative survey of Kosovar youth between the ages of 14 within the Sampling Unit. Using random route methodology, and 29, the survey consists of 1000 respondents selected at ran- enumerators selected every kth2 door on their right side as the dom through a carefully designed sampling methodology. A boost- approach to be used in the survey. er of 150 K-Serb and 50 K-Turk youth was added in order to have a statistically significant subgroup for analysis. The booster sample Step 3: Selection of respondents will be weighted when the national-level analysis is conducted; this After contacting the selected household, the enumerator deter- will ensure that K-Serb & K-Turk youth are not overrepresented in mined if there were permanent members between the ages of national results. In contrast to this, no weights are to be used when 14 and 29. comparisons by ethnicity are to be made. Three sub-groups of 969 —— If only one member of the household was 14 – 29 years old, K-Albanians, 181 K-Serbs and 50 K-Turks will be compared. the enumerator approached only the young member of the family for an interview. —— If two or more members of the household were between the MARGIN OF ERROR ages of 14 – 29 years old, the enumerator approached the member who had most recently had a birthday for an inter- The margin of error for the general sample (N=1000) is ±3.1 % view. with a confidence interval of 95 %. —— If no member of household was within the target age group of 14 – 29 years old, the enumerator moved along and approached the next 3rd household for the interview. SAMPLING

The sampling methodology used is a multistage cluster sampling with stratification. Selection of respondents went through a three-layer process.

Step 1: Selection of 100 Primary Sampling Units (PSU) around Kosovo. Primary Sampling Units for this specific survey were geographical areas defined by a Voting Centre (VC). The 2010 VC list made public by the Central Election Commission in Kosovo was used for this purpose. Selection of a VC was stratified according to regions. Registered voters served as a proxy for the population density of each VC area. The method of selection was probability proportional to size without replacement (PPS WOR) with the number of registered voters serving as a measure-of-size (MOS). 10 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

WEIGHTING QUALITATIVE COMPONENT

Two weightings were used. The first was a weighting according As the main task in the preparatory phase, the Focus Group to gender and the second the combined weighting of age group guideline is designed by IDRA Research & Consulting in close con- and gender. Weighing was only performed for the representative sultations with Friedrich Ebert Foundation. The Guideline was respondents. designed here in a way to make it possible to go in-depth on certain issues and results produced by the quantitative part of the TABLE 1: Age and gender distribution before and after research which needed further exploration and understanding. the weighting Additional questions outside of the survey instrument were also part of the guideline to serve as a support for specific issues. Kosovo Six focus groups were organised within five days, from 21 to Age Before After 25 May 2018. On average, a group took 2 hrs. Beside Prishtina (3 groups), additional groups were also organised in Prizren (1), Gjilan 14–17 39 % 27 % (1) and Mitrovica (1). Three focus groups held in Prishtina were 18–23 37 % 39 % divided into age groups of 14 – 17, 18 – 24, 25 – 29, whilst in other locations it was mixed. Urban/rural area, gender and employment 24–29 24 % 34 % status were mixed. Gender Female 59 % 48 %

Male 41 % 52 %

SAMPLE STRUCTURE:

TABLE 2: Focus groups distribution

Location Urban/Rural Gender Age Employment Status Prishtina (including Podujeva, Mixed Mixed 14 – 17 Students Drenas, Lipjan) Prishtina (including Podujeva, Half of the group students and Mixed Mixed 18 – 24 Drenas, Lipjan) unemployed/half employed Prishtina (including Podujeva, Half students and unemployed/ Mixed Mixed 25 – 29 Drenas, Lipjan) half employed Prizren (including Suhareka Half students and unemployed/ Mixed Mixed Mixed and Dragash) half employed Half students and unemployed/ Gjilan (including Viti and Kamenica) Mixed Mixed Mixed half employed Mitrovica (including Vushtri Half students and unemployed/ Mixed Mixed Mixed and Skenderaj) half employed

13 4

VALUES, RELIGION AND TRUST

Values, behaviour and beliefs are very important aspects that will —— Young people in Kosovo have strong support from and belief determine the future of young people of Kosovo and their socie- in family life, which serves as a basis for their social and per- ty. Past and recent social developments have played a vital role in sonal optimism. Young people in Kosovo display the greatest shaping the values, beliefs and attitudes of young people in soci- level of satisfaction with their lives compared to their coun- ety. As a result, changes in these factors over time are a prime terparts in the region, even though they live in a country that indicator of changes in the social environment. has a lower level of socio-economic development. Kosovo society remains attached to traditional values. These —— Young people in Kosovo are overly optimistic regarding their values place a premium on traditional family values, respect for personal future. They are also very optimistic about the fu- authority, the importance of religion, the importance of marriage ture of the Kosovar society. Females and people living in ur- and faithfulness to one’s partner (Inglehart & Welzel, 2016). ban areas are more optimistic than their counterparts. Koso- vo Albanians are optimistic about the future of Kosovo in the next 10 years, as 71 per cent of young people believe that the KEY FINDINGS future will be better than now. —— Corruption is the major issue of concern to young people in —— The most important value of young people in Kosovo is being Kosovo. Corruption makes a difference, as it is singled out as faithful to one’s partner, as 87 per cent of the youth people a key concern for around 56 per cent of young people. in Kosovo consider this to be very important. Moreover, an- —— Although Kosovo has suffered from ethnic conflict in the past, other 77 per cent believe that having children is very impor- only 18 per cent of the young people are frightened or con- tant, while another 70 per cent have this view of marriage. cerned about similar conflicts in the region or worldwide. This is a strong indication that traditional values and the fam- —— The survey produces some good news, namely that young ily are the main values held by young people in Kosovo. people in Kosovo do not condone bribery and cheating on —— On the other hand, there is a high degree of abstinence from taxes. The 87 per cent of young people that categorically re- civic and political actions, as only 10 – 16 per cent of young ject cheating on taxes shows a marked sense of ethics when people consider these aspects to be very important. As such, it comes to paying taxes, reflecting stable support for the there is a lack of a bond among young people that can serve state in general, although there is a low level of trust in the as cohesion making them more co-operative when it comes main public institutions, except for the police and army. to generating and obtaining mutual benefits. —— Young people in Kosovo are very negative about bribery, but —— Young people in Kosovo are generally very satisfied with their not about leveraging personal connections, although around lives (64 percent). The fact that the country is considered un- half of them categorically reject the use of connections to derdeveloped and young people are satisfied with their lives find jobs or get things done. should be considered problematic, as young people appear less motivated to contribute to the development of Kosovo. 14 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

—— Young people in Kosovo have pretty much the greatest trust with another 70 per cent that assign the same importance to possible in the immediate family. Beyond family members, the marriage. This is a strong indication of adherence to traditional level of trust diminishes substantially. Young people have a values, underscoring that the family is one of the most important greater-than-average level of trust for friends and classmates. values of young people in Kosovo. —— More than one-third of young people in Kosovo can be con- Some other important goals include obtaining a university sidered to be very attached to religion, as they attend religious diploma, cited by 72 per cent of respondents, while another 70 services at least once a month or more. Males appear to be per cent state that getting rich is very important, too. A majority more religious than females. There is a strong correlation be- of respondents cite these values and goals and have an individu- tween attendance of religious services by young people and alistic approach. the intensity of religious belief on the part of their parents. On the other hand, there is a high level of abstinence when it comes to civic and political action, as only 10 – 16 per cent The most important value young people in Kosovo hold is being of young people consider these aspects to be very important. faithful to one’s partner, with 87 per cent of young people in As such, there is a lack of a bond of among young people Kosovo considering this to be very important. Moreover, another providing the cohesion to make them more co-operative to 77 per cent believe that having children is very important, along their mutual benefit.

FIGURE 1: Most important values of young people in Kosovo

Being faithful to partner 3 7 87

Being faithful to friends 5 12 80 Healthy eating 7 12 80

Having a successful career 7 11 79

Having children 7 11 77

Being independent 8 12 77 Being faithful to employer 7 13 76

Taking responsibility 9 14 73

Graduating from university 3 6 9 8 72

Getting / being married 2 10 15 70 Getting / being rich 17 21 58

Looking good 3 24 18 52

Doing sports 8 9 21 14 47 Wearing branded clothes 12 12 31 15 29

Participating in civic actions / initiatives 32 14 23 11 16

Being active in politics 59 9 14 5 10

% Very important Not at all

4 Don´t know

3 No answer

FIGURE 2: Satisfaction of young people in Kosovo

With your family life 6 11 82

With your circle of friends 19 21 57 With your education 4 15 17 62 With your job, if relevant 5 5 9 6 21 10 43 Not relevant (the respondents don´t With your life in general 10 25 64 64 work)

% Very satisfied Very dissatisfied

4 Don´t know

3 No answer

2 Values, religion and trust 15

Young people in Kosovo are generally satisfied with their lives. people, which has eroded their sense of family belonging. As a The fact that Kosovo is considered by the World Bank to be a result, youth in these countries have greater ambitions to grow lower-middle-income country and young people are satisfied personally while having less support from their families, produc- with their lives should be considered problematic, as there is ing a sense of dissatisfaction. On the other hand, young people less motivation for young people to contribute to the develop- in Kosovo are very satisfied with their family support and tend to ment of Kosovo. There are some significant statistical correla- display a lower level of individualisation and less drive for person- tions with satisfaction of young people with their lives in general development. al. Respondents in the youngest cohort are the most satisfied Focus-group discussions were concentrated on the need for with their lives, with satisfaction then diminishing in the older the family as the most important asset and as something to be age cohorts (Spearman’s rho=-.154, p<0.001). Young people proud about. Other values and aspects that were cited included: that are part of families with a better economic standing are respect for parents, pride and strong sense of morals. One exam- usually more satisfied with their lives (Spearman’s rho=.061, ple for a strong sense of morals could be considered the rare in- p=0.043). Moreover, those who are satisfied are less inclined to stances of divorce. “People living in other countries get married migrate in the near future (Spearman’s rho=-.129, p<0.001). if they like someone and when things go wrong they get divorced. Those who more satisfied with their lives generally have a better It isn’t the same with us. We tolerate a lot of things because of view of the educational system (Spearman’s rho=.114, p<0.001), moral beliefs and family and do not think only of ourselves as and are also satisfied with the state of democracy in Kosovo individuals” (Prishtina, female, 24 years old). (Spearman’s rho=.062, p=0.041). Young people in Kosovo are overly optimistic about their personal future. They are also very optimistic about the future of FIGURE 3: Percentage of young people declaring very Kosovo society. Females are more optimistic than their counter- high satisfaction with their life parts (Spearman’s rho=-.086, p=0.005). Young people in the oldest youth cohort (24 – 29) are generally less optimistic about their

70 % future in 10 years compared to the other group ages (Spearman’s 64 rho=-.138, p<0.001).

60 % 58 Those who expect a better personal future generally have a

51 51 52 better opinion of the educational system (Spearman’s rho=.065, 50 % p=0.037), and are also satisfied with the state of democracy in

41 Kosovo (Spearman’s rho=.066, p=0.033). 39 40 % 37 38 Kosovo Albanians are optimistic about the future of Kosovo

32 in the next 10 years, as 71 per cent of young people believe that 30 % the future will be better than now. On the other hand, only 7 per

20 % FIGURE 4: How do you see your personal future in 10 years? 10 %

0 % Serbia Croatia Kosovo Albania Bulgaria Slovenia Romania Macedonia Montenegro Bosnia and HerzegovinaBosnia and

Youth in Kosovo receive strong support from family life, which boosts their social and personal optimism. Young people from Kosovo show the greatest satisfaction with their lives compared to their counterparts in the region, although they are citizens of a country with a lower level of socio-economic development. It appears that young people in the countries that are part of EU Better than now: 87 % No answer Personal Future are generally more dissatisfied with their lives. The developed Same as now: 7 % Don´t know: 3 % countries in the region (Slovenia, Croatia and Bulgaria) have ad- Worse than now: 3 % vanced further in the process of individualisation of their young 16 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 5: The opinion of young people about the future of Kosovo

71 Better than now 19

17 same es now 25

7 Worse than now 18

0 No answer 2

4 Don´t know 35 K-Albanians (N=969)

K-Serbs (N=181) 0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 % 80 % 90 % 100 %

FIGURE 6: Concerns of young people in Kosovo

Getting robbed by someone 60 20 18 2 Being a victim of physical violence 55 27 15 1

Terrorist attack 52 22 22 2 War in the region / the world 48 30 18 3 Too many immigrants and refugees 44 33 16 6 Getting seriously ill 42 32 22 4

Pollution and climate change 30 39 27 3

Having no job 30 31 36 2

Social injustice 29 32 36 3 Increasing poverty in society 24 39 35 2

Corruption 17 25 56 2

% A lot Not at all

Somewhat Don´t know

No answer

cent of young people among Kosovo Albanians can be considered Kosovar families experienced ethnic conflict in the late ‘90s, only to be pessimistic. More than one-third of Kosovo Serbs avoid the 18 per cent of young people are anxious or concerned about question about the future of Kosovo, while another 37 percent similar conflicts in the region or worldwide. appear to think that the future will be the same or worse.

BEHAVIOUR AND ITS JUSTIFICATION FRIGHTENED OR CONCERNED The survey reveals some good news with regard to the fact that Corruption is the major issue of concern for the young people in young people in Kosovo do not condone bribery and cheating Kosovo. Corruption makes a difference, as it is singled out as a on taxes. The 87 per cent of young people who never approve major concern by around 56 per cent of young people. of cheating on taxes shows a high level of ethics when it comes More than one-third of young people appear to consider the to paying taxes, reflecting stable support for the state in gener- issues of poverty and social injustice to be problematic. Although al, although there is a low level of trust in the main public Values, religion and trust 17

FIGURE 7: Behavior that can be justified or not

Using connections to find employment 61 14

Using connections to get things done 63 13

Abortion 71 7

Homosexuality 74 4 Accepting / giving a bribe 86 3

Cheating on taxes if you have a chance 87 2

% Not justified Don´t know

Neutral No answer

Justified

FIGURE 8: To what degree do you trust the following people? On a scale from 1 to 5, where 1 means “not at all” and 5 means “very much”

Immediate family members (mother / father, sister / brother, wife / husband, partner) (N=990) 4,9 Extended family members (relatives) (N=985) 3,8 Friends (N=992) 3,6 Classmates, course mates, or work colleagues (N=948) 3,2 People of other religions (N=958) 3,2 Neighbours (N=982) 2,9 People of other nationalities (N=913) 2,8 People with different political convictions (N=907) 2,5 Political leaders (N=979) 1,5

0 1 2 3 4 5

institutions, except for the police and army. There are very few TRUST significant statistical correlations in this case. Those who justify cheating on taxes also justify using connections to get things Young people from Kosovo have the greatest possible trust for done (Spearman’s rho=.250, p<0.001). Moreover, young people immediate family members. Beyond family members, the level living in urban areas are more inclined to cheat on taxes com- of trust diminishes at lower levels. Trust is a key ingredient in a pared to their counterparts (Spearman’s rho=-.112, p<0.001). more cohesive society that could push for better policies and a On the other hand, there is a very low acceptance of abortion better life. Young people have a higher-than-average level of and homosexuality. trust for friends and classmates. Youth people in Kosovo are very critical of bribery, but not There is a high tolerance of possible refugees among young as much when it comes to using connections, although around people in Kosovo. Moreover, Roma families have a slightly half of respondents say that the use of connections for finding above-average level of acceptance. On the other hand, there is jobs or getting things done is never justified. Young people living a high level of social distance – an indicator of low acceptance in urban areas are more inclined to justify connections in this of diversity – when young people are asked about drug addicts, regard (Spearman’s rho=-.115, p<0.001). Moreover, young peo- ex-prisoners and homosexuals. ple that are not satisfied with their lives in general are more in- Sexual minorities are the group of population that meets with clined to justify connections in order to find a job (Spearman’s the highest level of intolerance, except for drug addicts. Plenty of rho=-.129, p<0.001). Those who justify connections have a statistically significant correlations can be found when we analyse stronger desire to more abroad (Spearman’s rho=.101, p=0.001). acceptance of a homosexual person or couple moving into the Surprisingly enough, those who attend religious services more neighbourhood. Young males (Spearman’s rho=-.140, p<0.001) often are more inclined to justify connections in order to find a and young people living in urban areas (Spearman’s rho=-.119, job (Spearman’s rho=.092, p=0.003). p<0.001) are more intolerant of homosexuality. Moreover, those 18 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 9: How would you feel, if the following persons moved into your neighborhood?

Drug addicts moved into your neighborhood 80 9 7 2 2 2

Homosexual person or couple moved into your neighborhood 61 11 12 8 7 6

Ex-prisoners moved into your neighborhood 53 17 17 5 7 4 Roma family moved into your neighborhood 15 12 24 17 31 3 Refugees moved into your neighborhood 8 7 20 24 40 3 Group of students moved into your neighborhood 4 5 17 22 51 2

Local family with many children moved into your neighborhood 4 3 21 20 52 2

Family from Western Europe moved into your neighborhood 4 5 19 21 51 2 Retired couple moved into your neighborhood 3 3 11 25 58 2

% Very good Very bad

4 Don´t know

3 No answer

FIGURE 10: Religiosity of main ethnic groups

Muslim 17 97

Roman Catholic 2 0

Do not belong to a 1 denomination 1

Orthodox 0 (Russian / Greek / etc.) 35 98 K-Albanians (N=969)

K-Serbs (N=181) 0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 % 80 % 90 % 100 %

who more frequently attend religious service are more inclined to Around 36 per cent of young people in Kosovo can be consid- be against homosexual neighbours (Spearman’s rho=-.097, ered to be very religious, as they attend a religious service as least p=0.002). Young people who are members of families with a once a month. Males appear to be more religious than females better economic standing are more tolerant toward homosexuals (Spearman’s rho=.219, p<0.001). (Spearman’s rho=.92, p=0.003). Those who have fewer ethical There are very few indicators that have a statistical signifi- qualms about cheating on taxes are also more inclined to accept cance with regard to the frequency of attendance of religious homosexual neighbours (Spearman’s rho=.195, p<0.001). services. At any rate, young people in Kosovo who believe that the country should join the EU appear to be less religious (Spear- man’s rho=-.100, p=0.001). RELIGIOSITY Only 7 per cent of parents are predominantly non-religious compared to 19 percent of young people who attend religious The religion denomination of young people in Kosovo is com- services from about once a year to practically never. There is a pletely determined by their ethnic membership. Albanians remain strong correlation between attendance of religious services by predominately Muslim in 97 per cent of cases, and only 1 per cent youth people and the degree of religious belief that respondents admit that they do not belong to any religious denomination. On perceive their parents to have (Spearman’s rho=.329, p<0.001). the other hand, 98 per cent of Kosovo Serbs are Orthodox. Half of young people from predominantly religious families are still very likely to attend religious services, implying a considerable Values, religion and trust 19

FIGURE 11: How often do you attend religious services? (apart from weddings and funerals)

TOTAL Total (N=1.000) 11 4 4 44 8 16 12

GENDER Female (N=587) 14 5 5 51 6 7 10 Male (N=413) 9 3 3 38 10 24 13

More than once a week Only on special holy days Practically never

About once a week About once a year Don´t know

About once a month Less than once a year No answer

FIGURE 12: Young people religious practice/attendance frequency according to different parents religiousness

About once a year to 57 practically never 21 11

Only on special 30 holy days 50 40

Once a month to more 13 than once a week 29 Predominantely not religious (N=69)

49 Moderately religious (N=517)

Predominantely religious (N=390) 0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 % 80 % 90 % 100 %

transfer or legacy with regard to religious behaviour. Moderate- DISCUSSION ly religious families appear to have a more neutral distribution among their younger members when it comes to attendance of The young generation of Kosovars continues to attach special religious services. importance to family and other related events, with this impor- Participants in the Focus Groups considered themselves to tance being much greater that that assigned to friends and work. be liberal Muslims with regard to religion. Religion is seen as a There is a low tolerance for corruption, cheating on taxes and personal matter and not something to be imposed on others. bribery, which could be leveraged to provide a strong base to “My American friend visited Kosovo last year and he thought that support public-sector policies. The marked sense of ethics when he would find an unsafe country dominated by conservative it comes to paying taxes can be used to promote certain youth Muslims. When he was here, he saw normal people consuming policies that could generate additional expenses and require some alcohol. Religion doesn’t affect our lifestyle.” (Prishtina, male, changes in the tax system. On the other hand, the more indirect 25 years old). form of “unfair play” has a lower rate of rejection.

21 5

LIFESTYLE AND LEISURE

The generation aged 14 – 29 were born in the late 80s and 90s cases are related to communicating and keeping in touch and grew up in an era of rapid development of technology, the with relatives and friends. Half of the respondents use the Internet and devices. Lifestyle depends on a person’s attitudes, Internet for educational or work-related purposes. morality, values, preferences and opportunities. Leisure activities —— Behaviour with regard to smoking cigarettes has not changed constitute an important part of the well-being of young people, since 2012, as 71 per cent of young people still do not smoke. of their work, school, and family obligations, and can reflect the Nineteen per cent of males appear to be regular smokers, true aspirations and passions of young people. The way that whereas only seven per cent of females smoke on a regular youth spend their free time can influence many aspects of their basis. Young people from families which are economically social activities. better off have a greater tendency to smoke. This study comprises a set of questions regarding the lifestyle —— Nor has behaviour with regard to use of alcohol changed in of young people in Kosovo. This set of questions is aimed at de- the last six years, as the survey results show that once again termining the way that young people spend their free time, and 73 per cent of young people in Kosovo do not drink alcohol. how they behave with regard to certain activities that involve risks. Young people in urban areas have a stronger tendency to drink. Those young people that attend religious services more often are more inclined to refuse to drink alcohol even though KEY FINDINGS the same does not apply to smoking cigarettes. —— 46 % of young people in Kosovo confirm that they have not —— Asked about the most frequent activities that young people had sexual intercourse yet. On the other hand, 19 % of them in Kosovo usually engage in, it appears that they still concen- did not answer this question or did not feel comfortable an- trate their free time on ‘spending time with family’ as the swering it. most frequently mentioned activity. Listening to music and —— Contraceptives are used by 40 percent of the young people watching movies are the most common way to spend time. who have had sexual experiences. There is a very high statis- —— Less than half of young people spend a lot of time hanging tically significant correlation between the use of contracep- out and doing nothing. This is very common among fo- tives and young people who drink alcohol, who are members cus-group participants and usually takes place in the form of of families with a better economic standing, and who have spending time in bars. completed high levels of education. —— The majority (56 %) of youth in Kosovo access the Internet all the time in one form or another (Wi-Fi, smart phone, public, In the survey, a list of activities is shown to all the respondents PC and/or other means). This is more common among boys, and they say how often they engage in them. As is to be expect- especially in urban areas, and among respondents who tend ed, ‘spending time with family’ is the most frequently mentioned to be members of families with a better economic standing. activity (70 % very often and 23 % often). Being so attached to —— The main reasons for using the Internet in almost 85 % of the the family is something that will be discussed in more detail later 22 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 13

Spending time with the family 70 23

Listening to music 49 27

Watching films 31 27

Going out with friends 23 31

Nothing / hang out / relaxing 22 22

Reading books 18 22

Praying 18 18

Spending time in bars, cafes, clubs 14 22

Shopping 4

Sports activities 10

Playing video games 8 11

Doing something creative 8 11

Reading newspapers / magazines 3 8

Reading about spirituality / personal growth 3

Volunteering in social projects 1

Spending time in youth centers 1 4

Meditating, practicing yoga, etc. 1 3

Very often Being abroad 1 Often 1

0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 % 80 % 90 % 100 % Lifestyle and leisure 23

in study. Although leisure time is supposed to mean spare time cafes, clubs’, ‘engage in sports activities’ and ‘play video games’. aside from the daily obligations of the school, job, or family, Furthermore, the data shows that there are no significant differ- young people in Kosovo consider the family a very important way ences regarding urbanity (urban vs. rural area), aside from ‘go- to spend their free time. ‘Listening to music’, ‘watching movies’ ing out with friends’. and ‘going out with friends’ are among the most frequent ac- On the other hand, 23 % of young people state that they tivities that young people in Kosovo usually engage in. It seems never read books. Moreover, around 70 % of youth never volunteer that ‘praying’ plays an important role in everyday life for youth for social projects or initiatives. At the same time, close to 70 % (18 % state they do this ‘very often’ and 18 % ‘often’). On the of respondents have never been abroad. ‘Spending time abroad’ other hand, young people in Kosovo appear to not be involved is affected by the visa regime in Kosovo, as a majority of young in activities that are associated with volunteering, like ‘spending people have never been to the European Union. time at youth centres’ or being part of common undertakings The table showing relationships between the most important such as ‘doing something creative’ or participating in sports. activities indicates several correlations. Young people that like to When comparing gender results, the survey exposes big differ- spend time with family are more likely to engage in other passive ence with regard to some of the activities, with female respond- activities like listening to music or watching movies, but they are ents spending less time engaging in them than males. This ten- less likely to engage in sport activities, creative activities or volun- dency has been identified in several parts of the study. With tary activities. Youngsters that like to go out with friends exhibit regard to details, females tend to ‘read books’ more than males, the most correlations with other activities, especially with spend- but are less inclined to ‘go out with friends’, ‘spend time in bars, ing time in bars and sport activities.

TABLE 3: Correlation between activities conducted during leisure time

Spearman’s rho Listening to Watching Sports Doing Volunteer- Spending music movies activities something ing time in bars creative

Spending time with family .190** .210** -.096** -.071* -.190** Listening to music .212** .079** .086** .209** Watching movies .130** Going out with friends .315** .133** .293** .140** .604** Nothing/hang out .064* .097** .249** Reading books .067* .081** .301** .130**

Around 44 % of the young Kosovars often hang out and do noth- 40 % of respondents say that they access the Internet ‘every day ing, while 22 % do so often and another 22 % do so very often. or almost every day’, implying that these young people have In- This especially holds true for younger respondents. ternet access at least every day. There are some minor changes Hanging out and doing nothing was a main concern in the when one takes into account urbanity and gender results, such as focus group discussions. The participants described young people females (especially in rural areas) having slightly less Internet access as indifferent and lacking prospects. They were said to spend time compared to males (Spearman’s rho=.085, p=0.005). Young peo- in cafes and bars in an effort to make new contacts and develop ple who are members of families with a better economic standing relationships in the hope of finding employment possibilities. “I (Spearman’s rho=.105, p<0.001) and whose parents have a high- think that the main characteristic of Kosovar youth is the time er level of education (Spearman’s rho=.116, p<0.001) usually use spent in cafes and bars. Maybe we don’t have other activities to the Internet more intensively. keep us busy.” (Prizren, male, 29 years old) The survey data indicate that the main reasons for using the Internet often, which means at least ones a week, are associated Overall, those respondents who watch television say that they with communicating and keeping in touch with relatives and friends. spend on average about 2.2 hours per day doing so. Female re- About half of respondents (51 %) state that they use the Internet spondents seem to spend slightly more time than males in this often for occupational purposes such as work or school, while about activity, especially in rural areas. About 5 % of respondents state 43 % of youth people in Kosovo use the Internet often to stay up that they watch TV for 4 – 6 hours per day. to date and be informed. On the other hand, using the Internet for Findings show that a majority (56 %) of young people in Koso- online-banking or online-shopping displays low rates. vo access the Internet ‘practically all the time’ in one way or an- Focus-group discussions indicated a belief that smartphones other (Wi-Fi, smart phone, public, PC and/or other means). About are overused and hamper real-life communication. Participants 24 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 14: Internet access

TOTAL 56 40

FEMALE Urban 56 39 Rural 50 42

MALE Urban 62 37 Rural 58 40

Practically all the time Less than once a week

Every day or almost every day Not at all

At least once a week Don´t know

FIGURE 15: Main reasons for using internet

Communication with friends / relatives 85 Using social networks 83 Downloading or listening to music 51 School, education, or work 50 Reading news online / getting information 43 Sharing pictures, videos, or music 42 Downloading or watching videos or movies 37 E-mail 27 Gaming 18 Rating products, providing feedback 7 Online-shopping 6 Online-banking 4

0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 % 80 % 90 % 100 %

think that the Internet is being used too much for social networks. people have a positive self-image, as 73 % of them were satisfied On the other hand, some young people who have good IT skills and with their appearance, or more specifically, 38 % think they are a wide array of these skills are being hired by foreign companies to very satisfied with how they look, while 35 % are satisfied, 13 % work online or as self-employed persons. Programming is becoming are moderately satisfied and only 10 % are dissatisfied or very a very prestigious area and a very common occupation among youth. dissatisfied with their appearance. The parameters indicating satisfaction with appearance are It is especially important to note that leisure time is oftentimes not affected by age, community, or education, and the only sta- associated with risky behaviour, such as alcohol consumption, tistically significant difference is related to gender, as males appear risky sexual behaviour and the like. Risky behaviour among young slightly more satisfied than girls (Spearman’s rho=.060, p=0.048). people frequently results from a series of causes and situations that young people face within or outside their family, including in connection with various social, economic, and other factors. FIGURE 16: Satisfaction with own physical appearance

Very satisfied 38 SATISFACTION WITH PHYSICAL Satisfied 35 APPEARANCE Satisfied to some extent 13 Dissatisfied 2

Very dissatisfied 8 “Looking good” is no longer a top priority for young people in

Kosovo, as only 52 per cent of them consider this to be “very 0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % important”. Nevertheless, it appears that a majority of young Lifestyle and leisure 25

FIGURE 17: Do you smoke?

AGE 24–29 y. o. (N=235) 63 4 9 22 2

18–23 y. o. (N=371) 69 3 11 13 2 14–17 y. o. (N=394) 83 3 9 2 3

GENDER Male (N=413) 60 4 13 19 3 Female (N=587) 83 3 6 71

% No, and had not smoked before quit

Occasionally Yes, regularly every day

No answer

FIGURE 18: Do you drink alcohol? (N=1.000)

2018 2012

No, never: 73 % Yes, several times a week: 4 % No, never: 73 % Yes, several times a week: 5 %

Rarely: 15 % Yes, regularly every day: 1 % Rarely: 15 % Yes, regularly every day: 1 %

Only on weekends: 5 % No answer: 2 % Only on weekends: 5 % No answer: 1 %

rho=.084, p=0.006). Kosovo Serbs appear to be heavier smokers RISKY BEHAVIOUR than Kosovo Albanians (Spearman’s rho=.226, p<0.001). Focus group participants claimed that smoking is influenced According to the survey results, 71 per cent of young people do by friends and popular singers. It is very easy to access cigarettes, not smoke cigarettes. This result is identical with the results pro- as they are sold in every shop near schools at a price of 0.10 – 0.20 duced by the same survey in 2012. Nineteen per cent of males euros and the age limit is not respected. “They have easy access appear to be regular smokers, whereas only seven per cent of to buying cigarettes. It is as easy as to buy bread.” (Prishtina, male, girls smoke on a regular basis. Smoking on a regular basis is more 28 years old). The most common reason for smoking is “being IN” prevalent among youth aged 24 – 29, with the share of non-smok- and “breaking the rules”. ers decreasing with increasing age, although the share of those According to the survey results, 73 per cent of young people who only smoke occasionally is pretty similar across different do not drink alcohol, nor have the results changed in the last six youth age groups (9 – 11 %). years. Five per cent of young people report drinking alcohol at Smoking habits are correlated with the wealth index score, as least several times a week. Generally, consumption of alcohol is young people who are members of families with a better econom- prevalent among 25 % of youngsters, including those who drink ic standing have a greater tendency to smoke (Spearman’s on a regular basis and those who are very rare drinkers. The prev- 26 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

alence of alcohol consumption among males is 33 % and for fe- enced by social networks, the Internet and rap artists who promote males just 16 %. this very much. Other important reasons include being “IN” and Not surprisingly, the likelihood of drinking alcohol weekly in- curiosity. Participants claim that there is a perception that if some- creases with age from 5 % to 17 %. There is a high correlation one does not consume alcohol, he/she has at least tried it once. between frequency of smoking and consumption of alcohol “A friend of mine uses marijuana sometimes. She was surprised among young people (Spearman’s rho=.440, p<0.001). Moreover, when I told her that I never tried it. She kept saying that it is im- the consumption of alcohol correlates to the wealth index score, possible, that everyone is trying it and that it is normal. She does as youth who are members of families with a better economic not believe that she could become addicted.” (Podujeva, female, standing have a stronger tendency to consume alcohol (Spear- 25 years old). man’s rho=.241, p<0.001). As expected, young people in urban As cigarettes have started to become less “trendy”, young areas have a stronger tendency to consume alcohol compared to people have started to use drugs. “They are aware that it’s very their rural peer group (Spearman’s rho=-.062, p=0.041). Further- easy to have access to it and buy it. It’s not too expensive, they more, those young people that attend religious services more don’t use it too often, so they save money to buy it and smoke often are more inclined to refuse to drink alcohol (Spearman’s together. They don’t think that it leads to a dependency” (Prishti- rho=-.140, p<0.001). na, male, 23 years old). According to quantitative findings, drinking alcohol is unac- “I remember that when my sister was in high school and I was ceptable for 60 per cent of respondents. Moreover, a belief that a little girl, we heard about one case of a friend of her’s using the use of alcohol is partially acceptable is statistically linked to drugs. It was a big deal back then. Now, when I am at high school respondents’ gender, residence, age, and wealth index. The pro- and I tell stories about almost all of my friends using drugs, it has file of a young person who considers alcohol more acceptable is become a normal conversation and no one is surprised. It is be- male (Spearman’s rho=.127, p<0.001), living in an urban area coming acceptable in society.” (Mitrovica, female, 18 years old) (Spearman’s rho=-.120, p<0.001), has a higher level of education (Spearman’s rho=.189, p<0.001), and a better wealth index score (Spearman’s rho=.238, p<0.001). SEXUAL LIFE

FIGURE 19: Drinking alcohol acceptance levels When it comes to sexual behaviour of young people, 19 % of them did not respond or were not comfortable responding. This Is unacceptable 60 figure is much lower than in the same studies that have been or- Partially / condi- 25 tionally acceptable ganised in Bosnia & Herzegovina (48.8 %) and in Macedonia Acceptable 10 (37 %). On the other hand, 46.2 % of youth people state that DK / NA 5 they have not had sexual intercourse yet.

0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % Naturally, sexual experience is greater among people aged 25 – 29 compared to youth in their teenage years. Sexual experience is also more prevalent among males than females (Spearman’s Focus group discussions revealed that alcohol is very easy to ob- rho=.347, p<0.001). Moreover, sexual activity correlates with the tain. Overall, respondents were not opposed to drinking a beer wealth index score, as young people who are members of families or two, or having a glass of wine. Drinking is seen more as a with a better economic standing tend to state behaviour along method of socialising, but “getting drunk” is not acceptable. Al- these lines (Spearman’s rho=.207, p<0.001). cohol is less or very rarely used among the age group 14 – 17. Contraceptives are used by 40 percent of the youth that have Most of these respondents are against alcohol and associate it had sexual experiences. Four percent of young people appear to with violence and loss of self-control. “I am fasting for Ramadan be uninformed about these issues. There is a very high statistical- now, but a month ago I used to consume beer at least twice a ly significant correlation between those who drink alcohol and week. It is normal. I don’t get drunk. I like to drink it when I am young people who use contraceptives (Spearman’s rho=.355, in good company. It is even healthy for the organism to drink p<0.001). Moreover, those who are classified as “rich” in the sometimes and kill the bacteria.” (Prishtina, male, 22 years old). wealth index score and have completed high levels of education 94 per cent of young people stated that they never smoked are keener to use contraceptives (Spearman’s rho=.239, p<0.001, marijuana, with only three per cent engaging in this activity rare- Spearman’s rho=.274, p<0.001). Males are more used to contra- ly. These data do not allow one to make comparisons or to calcu- ceptives (Spearman’s rho=.196, p<0.001), while urban or rural late the statistical significance of different indicators relating to residence is not linked to any statistical difference in this regard. marijuana use. As far as respondents’ attitudes towards sex are concerned, it Focus group discussions revealed another story. Some partic- should be noted that virginity is a matter of dignity for both gen- ipants in focus groups declared that a few of their friends started ders; this is what 37 per cent of respondents believe. 23 per cent using drugs after the age of 15. They are said to be mostly influ- state that this is a matter of dignity, especially for girls. Lifestyle and leisure 27

FIGURE 20: Sexual experience

I have not had sexual intercourse yet 46,2 I have had sexual intercourse with one partner 22,2

I have had sexual intercourse with more than one partner 12,7 I dont feel comfortable answering this question 5,9 DK / NA 13,1

0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 % 80 % 90 % 100 %

Total (N=1000)

FIGURE 21: Contraceptives use behavior

TOTAL (N=435) 4 29 21 18 27

URBANITY Rural (N=273) 4 29 21 17 28

Urban (N=162) 5 30 21 19 25

GENDER Male (N=240) 5 22 23 22 28 Female (N=195) 4 41 19 10 25

% I am not informed about these things / do not know what it is Yes, as a rule

No, never Don´t know

Yes, sometimes

FIGURE 22: Opinion about virginity of young people in Kosovo

TOTAL (N=1.000) 37 23 6 9 8 17

URBANITY Rural (N=610) 37 23 5 7 9 19

Urban (N=390) 37 22 8 12 8 14

GENDER Male (N=413) 33 24 6 9 11 18 Female (N=587) 41 21 7 9 6 16

% Value / virtue for both genders Outdated concept

Value / virtue for girls Don´t know

Unnecessary psychological burden / burden for youth No answer

On the other hand, around one-quarter of the young people do regarding virginity (Spearman’s rho=-.070, p=0.048). Further- not respond or do not know how to respond to this question. more, those young people who attend religious services more There is no statistically significant difference between males and often are more inclined to advocate sexual abstinence before females, while young people in rural areas are more conservative marrying (Spearman’s rho=-.128, p<0.001). 28 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

DISCUSSION Differences between urban and rural young people are more no- ticeable in the context of leisure time and lifestyle. Young people Young people in Kosovo live mostly with their parents and some- in rural areas cannot avoid spending time with their families in a times even with their grandparents, under constant supervision more passive way due to the lack of places of entertainment or and are characterised by financial dependency. As a result, they other cultural/sports institutions. On the other hand, cigarette have a limited choice in terms of leisure time and lifestyle, and it and alcohol use are more widespread in urban areas. is striking to note that more than 80 per cent of young people Half of young people in Kosovo have still not had sexual ex- want to spend their leisure time with their family. Most young periences, although this activity increases proportionally with age. people are still in school, some of them are not undergoing edu- Responsibility for the use of contraceptives is greater among boys. cation or unemployed, and they cannot avoid spending time Virginity is still very important, especially due to the fact that with their families, so those who provided this answer spend one-quarter of young people think that it is a virtue that should their time with their family more passively, and have narrow so- be upheld only by girls. cial networks.

31 5 FAMILY AND SOCIETY

In Kosovar society, the family is traditionally considered to be the —— One-fourth of young people would raise their children differ- most important value. This is very evident in the findings in the ently than their parents. On the other hand, only 30 per cent previous sections, which underscore the importance of the fami- of them would raise their children in the same way. Young ly in many aspects. The family in Kosovo is still strong and not people living in families with better economic conditions and going through certain transformations as much as is the case in having a mother with a higher level of education are more other countries. Kosovo is an absolute stronghold of “familyism”, likely to raise their children in the same way. where the primacy of family interests is much more important —— Father and mother both have a very strong influence on im- that individual interests. The age of marriage is still low, the num- portant decisions of young people in Kosovo. Close to 60 per ber of children desired is still high, and the custom of living to- cent of the young people make important decisions together gether with one’s parents is still widely shared, with few young with their parents. Males have a higher tendency to make people living away from their parents. decisions by themselves, as do educated young people. —— There is a significant increase in the preferred age for marriage for men among both males and females, from 26 to 29. KEY FINDINGS Moreover, young people prefer to have their first child after they are 25 years old on average. —— Young people in Kosovo live in very large families. The aver- —— 54 % of young people in Kosovo are planning to have three age number of family members in respondents’ households is or more children. On the other hand, only 1 per cent of young 5.7 members. Big families tend to be poorer than smaller people in Kosovo want only one child. The youngest cohort families, exhibiting a lower level of education among younger of youth in Kosovo generally want a lower number of chil- family members. Moreover, the higher the level of education dren, while those who are part of families with a better eco- of the respondents’ mother, the smaller the families. nomic standing want a greater number of children. —— Most young people (81 per cent) still live with close family —— The most important factors that influence the choice of a members and another 8 per cent live in inherited flats/houses spouse are personality, family approval and religious belief. or flat/houses bought by their parents. Out of those who live Family approval in choosing a marriage partner is very impor- with their parents, around 83 per cent of young people aged tant to females as well as those persons living in families 24 – 29 prefer to live with their parents because it is the sim- which are not as economically well off. plest and most comfortable solution. —— Almost all young people surveyed (98 per cent) said that they Young people in Kosovo live in very large households. The aver- have good relationship with their parents, with two-thirds of age number of family members in respondents’ households was them being in a very good relationship and the other one- 5.7 members. These extended families are the main factor in third having good relationship, albeit some differences in transmitting the values of the family from the older generation to opinions. This confirms a very stable position of the family on younger ones. The distribution of family members in rural and the list of values held by young people in Kosovo. urban areas is very similar, with more than one-quarter of young 32 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 23: How many persons live in your household, including you?

30 25 20 15 10 5 Urban 0 2 3 4 5 6 7 8+ Rural

FIGURE 24: Young people living preferences

TOTAL (N=1.000) 81 8 6 3

GENDER Male (N=413) 90 6 Female (N=587) 71 6 12 6

AGE 24–29 y. o. (N=235) 63 9 15 6 18–23 y. o. (N=371) 88 5 3 2

14–17 y. o. (N=394) 93 4

In parental home In rented flat / house paid by someone else

In inherited flat / house In students´ dormitory

In the flat / house bought for me by my parents Other

In my rented flat / house that I bought on my own or with my partner Don´t know

In rented flat / house that I pay on my own No answer

people living in households with 7 or more members. There are RELATIONSHIP WITH PARENTS just a few more smaller families in urban areas, as 13 per cent of all urban households of young people have 2 – 3 members, com- The role of parents is very important to young people in Kosovo. pared to 11 per cent of rural households. There is no single-per- The majority of 81 per cent of respondents have lived with their son household in the whole sample. Families often consist of parents in the past year and another 8 per cent are living in in- three generations, as quite frequently grandparents live with par- herited flats/houses or flat/houses bought by their parents. ents and children, sharing the task of raising them. Moreover, Even youth people aged 24 – 29 live in the parental home in 63 having big families is statistically linked to the wealth index score, per cent of cases, which shows that the process of living on language, respondents’ education and respondents’ mother’s their own in general takes a long time. Only 14 per cent of education. Bigger families tend to be poorer than smaller families these respondents would like to live alone, but are impeded by on the wealth index score (Spearman’s rho=-.153, p<0.001). Fam- financial circumstances. ilies that speak Albanian are also more numerous. The higher the Relationships with parents remain very strong and have level of education of the respondent (Spearman’s rho=-.142, stayed almost constant over the last six years compared to the p<0.001) and of the mother of the respondent (Spearman’s rho=- previous wave of 2012 (W1 on the graph). Almost 98 per cent .112, p<0.001), the smaller the family tends to be. Moreover, of young people in Kosovo confirm that they generally have a young people living in bigger families plan to have children at a good relationship with their parents, including 35 per cent who younger age (Spearman’s rho=-.84, p<0.001). admit some differences of opinions. This confirms a very stable position on the part of the family on the list of the values held by young people in Kosovo. Only 1 % of young people state that they have a conflictual relationship with their parents. There are very few indicators that show a statistical significance with regard to this aspect, while gender, age and educational level do not influence this relationship. Young people living in rural areas tend Family and Society 33

FIGURE 25: Which of the following statements best decribes your relationship with your parents?

W1 66 31 3 W2 63 35

We get along very well Very conflictual relationship

We get along, although sometimes we have differences in opinion Don´t know

In general, we do not get along, we often argue No answer

to be in a more conflictual relationship in their families (Spear- p=0.011). On the other hand, the higher the level of the educa- man’s rho=-.180, p<0.001). Moreover, those who are generally tion of the mother as a parent, the better the chances are of not satisfied with their lives in general tend to have a conflictual having set a good example even for the next generation (Spear- relationship with their parents (Spearman’s rho=-.172, p<0.001), man’s rho=.119, p<0.001) suggesting that these young people have a more individualistic approach. Although young people appear to get along well with their HOW DO YOUNG PEOPLE parents, only 30 per cent of them would raise their children in MAKE DECISIONS? the same way, with another 41 per cent stating that they would raise their children almost the same as their parents. A quarter Young people were asked about which family members have the of young people would raise their children differently than their greatest influence on the decisions they make for the important parents. things in life, including themselves. Both parents have a very strong influence on important decisions. The patriarchal struc- FIGURE 26: Would you raise your children like ture of the family appears to be responsible for an orientation your parents raised you, or differently? toward a more collegial principle in decision-making, as 58 per cent choose the father, while half of young people also mention the mother. Depending on respondents’ gender, age and residence, the answer to this question also varies. Females have a very close influence by both parents, while males are more influenced by their fathers (Spearman’s rho=.209, p<0.001). In general, 26 per cent of respondents appear to be independent, which means that they are free in their decision-making process. There is a slight increase of 4 per cent here compared to the previous wave (2012). Close to 60 per cent of young people make important decisions together with their parents. Males have a greater tendency to make decisions by themselves (Spearman’s rho=.092, p=0.003), while there is a notable increase in females who give the same response comparing 2012 with 2018 (jumping from 17 per cent to 23 per cent). Young educated people (Spear- man’s rho=.325, p<0.001), those living in families with better Almost the same: 41 % Totally differently: 4% economic conditions (Spearman’s rho=.121, p<0.001) and older The same: 30 % DK / NA: 3 % respondents (Spearman’s rho=.412, p<0.001) exhibit much high- Differently: 21 % er rates of independency in taking decisions.

There are very few indicators that show a statistical significance with regard to this aspect. Young people living in families with a better economic situation would raise their children in the same way (Spearman’s rho=.076, p=0.011). The younger part of the oldest cohort in this survey (24 – 29 years of age) would mostly try to raise their children differently (Spearman’s rho=-.125, 34 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 27: Who, among your family members or acquaintances, has most influence on your important decisions:

Father 58

Mother 50 No one, I decide independently 12 Spouse / partner 11 Brother 8 Sister 5 Somebody else 3 Grandfather 2 Grandmother 1 Friends 1

0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 % 80 % 90 % 100 %

FIGURE 28: Which of the following statements best decribes your situation?

W1 71 22 6 W2 60 26 8 4

% My parents and I take decisions jointly Don´t know

I decide independently No answer

My parents decide about everything

FAMILY PLANS FIGURE 29: Family plans

Young people in Kosovo are very resolute and unanimous in the way they predict their family’s future, as 88 % of respondents selected the option of “marriage with children”. In this case, both official marriage and children are important, but another 5 per cent select “unofficial marriage” with children as a possible family plan. The models of a family without children, or living single with or without children altogether receive a very minimal “approval rate” of less than 3 per cent.

Married, with own family: 88 % Single without children:2

Married but without children:1 single parent: 1

Unmarried relationship with partner Don´t know: 1 and with own family: 5 % No answer: 1 Unmarried relationship with partner without children: 1 Family and Society 35

MARRIAGE AGE Although young people plan to marry and have their first child after they are 25 years old, they still want to have a large number There is a significant increase in the preferred age for marriage of children. The results show that young Kosovars still want large for men among both males and females amounting to at least families and do not want to change the current situation signifi- two years compared to the previous Youth Study of 2012. Boys cantly. Moreover, the survey produced some very peculiar results. prefer a lower age for marriage for both males and females. Only 1 per cent of young people in Kosovo want only one child. Girls prefer on average an age of 26 for themselves and 29 for On the other hand, close to 22 per cent of young people do not marriage of males. know the number of children they want to have, or do not want to answer this question. Despite having a greater percentage of TABLE 4: Adequate age for marriage non-responses from the youngest respondents, the remainder appear to have a more confused opinion about this issue. In 2012 Adequate age for marriage for women around 59 % of young people in Kosovo were planning to have 2012 2018 three or more children. In 2018, 54 % want to have three or more Male 23 25 children (the graph includes even those who did not answer the Female 24 26 question, resulting in a lower figure of 41 %). The youngest age group (Spearman’s rho=.120, p<0.001 and females generally Adequate age for marriage for men want to have fewer children (Spearman’s rho=.077, p=0.024). 2012 2018 Furthermore, those who are members of families with a better Male 26 28 economic standing generally want to have more children (Spear- man’s rho=.090, p=0.090). Female 27 29 The most important factors contributing to the choice of a spouse when starting a family are the following: personality (78 When asked about the age when young people want to have per cent), family approval (68 per cent), religious belief (65 per their first child, females state that they would like to have their cent), common interests (64 per cent) and virginity (62 per cent). first baby on average at the age of 25, while males would like to Less important factors include appearance (30 per cent), econom- be a father at the age of 27 on average. ic standing (29 per cent) and national origin (28 per cent). Young people in rural areas (Spearman’s rho=-.093, p=0.015), Young people in Kosovo confirm the role of the family even and youngers who are generally satisfied with their lives (Spear- when making very personal decisions like marriage. The consent man’s rho=-.076, p=0.045) want to have their first child at a young- of the family when choosing a marriage spouse is important in 68 er age. Young people coming from families with a better econom- per cent of cases. There are some statistically significant correla- ic standing (Spearman’s rho=.164, p<0.001), and who have parents tions between obtaining family approval and other factors. Those with higher levels of education (Spearman’s rho=.192, p<0.001) who would raise their children in the same way as their parents are generally planning to have their first child at an age that is raised them are more inclined to seek family approval before get- higher than the average. ting married (Spearman’s rho=.169, p<0.001). Moreover, females In focus group, discussions revolved around the fact that per- are more dependent on receiving family approval compared to ceptions about marriage have changed. Some years ago, the ap- males (Spearman’s rho=-.153, p<0.001). Those who live in families propriate age for getting married was 18 – 19, and now it is about whose economic standing is not good are also more inclined to 27. “Before, because of the mentality, we were taught to get seek family approval before getting married (Spearman’s rho=- married young at the age of 18. Nowadays, our parents don’t .082, p=0.007). The younger respondents are, the more they think pressure us to get married so we can wait until we find the right that they have to get family approval before choosing a spouse partner”. (Prishtina, female, 23 years old). (Spearman’s rho=-.120, p<0.001). 56 per cent of young people in Kosovo consider the level of

FIGURE 30: How many children do you plan or education to be of primary importance when choosing a spouse. imagine to have? Females are more interested in the level of education of their partner compared to males (Spearman’s rho=-.113, p<0.001). DK / NA 22 Interestingly, young people who are members of families better More than 3 13 off economically are more inclined to seek partners with a bet- Three 28 ter level of education (Spearman’s rho=0.084, p=0.005). The Two 34 younger the respondent, the more likely they are to believe that One 1 the level of education has an influence on their decision to choose None / never 0 a spouse (Spearman’s rho=-.183, p<0.001). The most surprising

0% 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % significant correlation is the fact that the higher the level of education of the father, the more important the level of educa- 36 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 31: Most important factors to choose the spouse

Personality 7 12 78

Family approval 3 3 11 14 68

Religious beliefs 9 4 10 11 65 Common interests 15 16 64 Virginity 10 10 9 62

Education level 3 3 18 19 56

Appearance 8 7 36 20 30 Very important Not at all important

Economic standing 19 7 29 16 29 4 Don´t know

National origin 34 9 18 11 28 3 No answer

2 %

tion becomes when choosing a spouse (Spearman’s rho=.140, expect to complete their education and find jobs through family p<0.001). support, while the family itself serves as a replacement for social When choosing a spouse, females tend to attach more impor- space that young people should have in the outside world. tance to family approval, economic standing and personality, while On the other hand, the fact that only 30 % of young people males focus more on appearance, virginity and religious beliefs. would raise their own children exactly the same as they were raised by their parents demonstrates that a section of young people have started to think above and beyond the traditions and norms with DISCUSSION which they were raised. In conclusion, the paradigm of the traditional Kosovar fami- Family is considered to be the most important value in Kosovo. ly is still very important among young people. All informal social The study revealed a strong desire to preserve traditional features mechanisms are still related to traditions, which means that pol- of the Kosovar family as well as weak tendencies to modify some icies instituted by the government should be targeted more to specific aspects. Kosovo families are still large in terms of the individuals instead of families. Values relating to personal devel- number of members and it is easy to transfer traditional values of opment, individualism and independence are the main ingredi- the families from the older generation to younger ones. Parents ents needed to build a developed society and economy, i.e. there are very involved in making sure that young people have accom- is a need for these new values to be conveyed to Kosovar youth modations and attend to their financial needs as well. Sometimes so that young people can develop the individualism that is need- parents find jobs for their children, or attempt to influence their ed to become more ambitious in life and to search for success school marks. All these factors lead to a strong dependency on outside of the family. the part of young people on their parents. The need to become independent and live separately increases at a very late age, and young people are slow in becoming concerned about providing for their own living. Broadly speaking, there is huge gender differences in the traditional structure of the Kosovo family. Family supervision and decision-making are certainly more common for girls than boys. As stated above, females are more dependent on obtaining family approval when choosing a spouse. Females usually take decisions together with their parents, while males are more independent in decision-making. The most important change in this aspect it that females are not being pushed to get married in a lower age, and are receiving more time to choose their spouse. For young people, their most important matrix of values begins in their parents’ family and ends in their own family. Although initial social supervision of young people is performed by the family itself, young people do not question the family at any point, only expressing confidence in family members. Moreover, they

39 6

EDUCATION

Last year, Kosovo spent around 4.3 % of GDP on education 1 and secondary education at 96 % and 88.1 %, respectively. Enrol- (including higher education), although almost 60 % of these ex- ment at the tertiary level is very high with 120,000 students in penditures were allocated to the wages and salaries of teachers both public and private institutions of higher education. However, in primary and secondary education. In 2014 – 2015, nearly low PISA scores and a high unemployment rate among higher-ed- 110,000 students were registered in institutions of higher edu- ucation graduates (26.7 % in Q3 2017) reflect the poor quality of cation2, mainly in public institutions, although around 35 % of education in general and its misalignment with labour-market students are registered at 29 private institutions of higher edu- needs in particular. Given this situation, Kosovo needs to work on cation that are approved by the Kosovo Accreditation Agency. fostering closer cooperation between the educational system and Although Kosovo has not yet officially joined the Bologna Pro- the private sector (European Commission, 2018). cess, its implementation is one of the main trends in policy towards higher education. Education is expected to ensure competences and skills need- KEY FINDINGS ed for employment, and the achievement of an adequate standard of living whether it be in the home country or abroad. Kosovo is —— Young people are mostly dissatisfied with the quality of edu- mirroring the global trend towards a rapid increase in young peo- cation in Kosovo. Only 23 % can be considered satisfied with ple entering the higher-education system (GoK, 2016). Moreover, the quality of education, which is one of the lowest figures in education takes up a sizable part of young people’s lives in Koso- the whole region. Moreover, Kosovo is the only country that vo society, and can influence their personal and professional ful- has seen a deterioration in the level of satisfaction with the filment and development. Another reason for the high rate of quality of the education. The youngest cohort of young peo- enrolment in education might be an attempt by some countries ple and females appear to be more satisfied with the quality in transition to “alleviate employment pressure and reduce youth of education. unemployment” 3. This happens even in Kosovo, where an over- —— More than 56 % of young people mostly agree that there are whelming majority – 92 % – of young Kosovars intend to attain cases of bribery in institutions/universities in Kosovo. This higher education. phenomenon is more widespread in urban areas. The educational sector is not properly aligned with labour —— The majority of school-attending youth in Kosovo spend at market needs, resulting in low employability of graduates and a least two hours per day studying. There has been a slight in- significant premium on skills. Public spending on education has crease in the number of pupils and students who study more remained unchanged, at 4.6 % of GDP in 2016, which is broadly than two hours per day. There is a notably greater number of in line with middle-income countries with similar age profiles. Con- hours of study for university students compared to other sidering the relatively large number of students, however, Kosovo groups. This shows that high schools are perceived to be less spends considerably less than some neighbouring countries per demanding than the university level. student on primary and secondary education. Furthermore, spend- —— There has been a decrease in the level of stress perceived at ing on education is dominated by the wage bill. Early childcare schools/universities in the last few years. The share of stu- and pre-schooling enrolment rates are very low at 4.4 % and dents who report life in school to be “quite hard and stressful” 33.9 %, respectively, still well below the EU target of 95 % by 2020. and “very hard and stressful” has dropped from 30 % to 13 %. In contrast, there are relatively high enrolment rates in primary On the other hand, students at the higher-education level 40 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 32: How satisfied are you generally with the quality of education in your country?

60 %

50 50 50 % 45 44 41 42 39 40 39 40 % 36 33 31 28 30 % 27 25 23 20 19 20 %

10 %

0 0 0 % Serbia Croatia Kosovo Albania Bulgaria Slovenia Romania Macedonia Montenegro YSEE 2018

YSEE 2011-15 Bosnia and HerzegovinaBosnia and

claim to be subject to much more stress than their counter- FIGURE 33: Satisfaction with the quality of education parts in high schools.

—— Only 28 % of young people have performed a practical posi- 8 Very satisfied tion or internship, although the level of participation in in- 13 ternships increases notably at the level of university studies.

17 Satisfied Satisfaction with the quality of education in Kosovo generates 18 some mixed results, with respondents for the most part display-

ing a low level of satisfaction with the quality of education. 47 Neutral Only 23 % of young people in Kosovo can be considered to 25 44 be satisfied with the quality of education. This is one of the lowest

figures in the entire Youth Study in Eastern Europe (YSEE), with 14 Unsatisfied the exception of Macedonia. Moreover, Kosovo is the only coun- 14 try in the region that appears to have seen a slight deterioration

in satisfaction with the quality of education when comparing the 15 Not satisfied at all results of 2012 with 2018. 11 It is very obvious that the older sub-group (24 – 29) of youth

are most dissatisfied with this aspect, while the youngest segment 0% 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % of the population (14 – 17) has a more positive view. This is also confirmed by statistical correlations (Spearman’s rho=-.130, Student p<0.001). We see the same phenomenon among the female co- I am in school / high school / vocational school hort group, which would appear to be more dissatisfied in 27 % of cases, while males are mostly dissatisfied in 32 % of the cases. Actual university students are clearly less satisfied with the educational system compared to actual high school pupils. High school pupils tend to have a higher level of satisfaction. (Spear- man’s rho=-.096, p=0.013) Education 41

FIGURE 34: Do you agree that there are cases where grades and exams are bought in institutes / universities in Kosovo?

TOTAL (N=1.000) 12 4 19 16 40 8

AGE 24–29 y. o. (N=235) 13 4 21 15 42 5

18–23 y. o. (N=371) 10 4 20 17 40 8

14–17 y. o. (N=394) 12 5 17 15 39 11

EDU University or higher (N=94) 11 6 18 13 48 3 High school (N=464) 11 4 22 16 39 7 Up to 8–9 years of school (N=439) 13 4 16 17 39 11

UR Rural (N=610) 14 4 21 15 38 7 Urban (N=390) 8 5 16 18 45 8

GENDER Male (N=413) 11 5 18 15 42 8 Female (N=587) 12 4 21 17 39 7

% Very much Not at all

4 Don´t know

3 No answer

“BUYING” GRADES ies is responsible for the increased stress experienced by students or vice-versa (Spearman’s rho=-.172, p<0.001). At the same time, Young people have the perception that “buying” exams is com- girls are more inclined to study for long hours compared to boys monplace. More than 56 % of respondents mostly agree that and the statistical coefficient is very high for this correlation there are cases in which exams are bought. This is more prevalent (Spearman’s rho=-.272, p<.001). in urban areas than rural areas (Cramer’s V=.135). The problem appears to be more present in the eyes of those who have com- FIGURE 35: How many hours on average do you pleted the third level of education (university studies). spend studying (after classes / at home) per day? On the other hand, focus-group discussions reveal that there are a lot of ways to pass an exam, ranging from paying money to 40 % 32 cases of influences by the family or social circle. Everyone has 29 30 30 % 26 experienced such phenomena. “If parents of a student work in 24 the field of medicine, and the son or daughter pursues studies in 22 19 20 % the same field, it is certain that they will pass all exams by lever- 15 aging their influence”. (Prishtina, male 26). 10 % 3 1 HOW MANY HOURS A DAY 0 % W1 (N=649) W2 (N=658) DO STUDENTS STUDY? Total

0-1 More than 3 The majority of school-attending youth in Kosovo spend at least 1-2 DK / NA two hours per day studying. There has been a slight increase in 2-3 the number of pupils and students who study more than two hours per day in 2018, accounting for around 54 % of the total number of young people. Regarding the level of education, uni- On the other hand, the higher the level of studies (bachelor and versity students and females study a significantly greater number above), the greater the number of hours that students should of hours compared to their counterpart groups. Hours of study spend studying. This indicates that high school is perceived to are negatively correlated with non-stressful daily life at schools/ be less demanding than the university level (Spearman’s universities. This implies that the great number of hours of stud- rho=.125, p= 0.001) 42 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 36: Student’s levels of stress in 2012 (wave 1) and 2018 (wave 2)

W1 (N=658) 7 23 48 18 3 W2 (N=649) 3 10 49 28 8

% DK / NA Hard and stressful to some extent

Very easy and completely stress free Quite hard and stressful

Easy and not particularly stressful Very hard and stressful

FIGURE 37: Participation in internships

TOTAL Total (N=1.000) 71 28

AGE 24–29 y.o. (N=235) 60 39 18–23 y.o. (N=371) 72 27 14–17 y.o. (N=394) 83 15

EDU University or higher (N=94) 29 71

High School (N=464) 73 27 Up to 8–9 years of school (N=439) 84 15

UR Rural (N=610) 75 24 Urban (N=390) 65 34

GENDER Male (N=413) 72 27 Female (N=587) 70 29

% Yes Don´t know

No No answer

FIGURE 38: Difficulty in finding a job

K-Albanians (N=621) 29 17 27 14 2 11 K-Serbs (N=141) 15 21 38 4 4 17

% Very easy I have already found it

3 Don´t know

2 No answer

Very difficult Education 43

There has been a notable decrease in the level of stress per- DISCUSSION REGARDING EDUCATION ceived at schools/universities in the last few years. The share of students who report life at school to be “quite hard and stress- Young people in Kosovo evaluate the education system as unsat- ful” and “very hard and stressful” has dropped from 30 % to isfactory, and are of the opinion that educational institutions are 13 %. Students who have better grades display a much lower lev- not equiping young people with the skills and know-how they el of stress (Spearman’s rho=.171, p<0.001). On the other hand, need for the labour market. This could be partially due to outdat- students at the higher-education level appear to perceive a much ed curricula of institutions of higher education that are not higher level of stress than their counterparts at high schools geared to practical aspects of the job market. (Spearman’s rho=-.132, p=0.001). Educational curricula are a major problem, as their content is outdated and not practical. Even if there were a large supply of jobs in the labour market, it would be difficult to estimate the PRACTICAL ORIENTATION OF extent that the skills offered in the educational system could meet EDUCATION AND TRANSITION IN the requirements of the modern international labour market. THE LABOUR MARKET

It is obvious that students at the level of higher education display a much higher rate of performance with internships and practical positions. This is mostly related to the orientation of the educational system. Generally, only 28 % of the young population have ever performed a practical position or internship. Furthermore, we asked those who were studying (at the secondary or tertiary level) about their degree of optimism regarding the possibility of finding a job after graduation. There is no correlation between the likelihood of finding a job and the practical orientation of education. Most of the participants in the focus groups agreed that there is no correlation between education and the labour market. It is difficult to find a job in the area they are studying. “At university only theory is taught, but no practical skills in the same field. Some students have performed some internships that they arranged themselves, but these are not related to their area of study.” (Prishtina, female, 25 years old).

45 7

EMPLOYMENT

Youth unemployment is a huge problem in Kosovo. According to and to expand active labour market measures focused on youth, the UNDP (2017), current youth unemployment in Kosovo is as women and the promotion of entrepreneurship (GoK, 2018) high as 57.7 %. The national poverty rate is nearly one-third of In her report, Cojocaru puts forward specific recommendations the population (29,7 %). This situation is still a legacy of disrup- which could lead to improvements with regard to unemployment tions caused by end of the communist regime, the ongoing and promote active, employed young people who have jobs struggle for independence and the economy being dependent matching their sets of skills. Moreover, putting focus on needed on financial aid from abroad. Kosovo is one of the youngest na- skills as mentioned above, the improvement of public services as tions on earth, however, and currently at a critical juncture. The well as reforms of the social care system for elderly and children country shows considerable potential due to its young, willing- may also enhance the involvement of women in the labour market to-work population, which could potentially boost the economy (Cojocaru, 2017). and labour market significantly if properly fostered and devel- In 2017 Kosovo was one of the top 10 reformers, according oped (UNDP, 2017).4 to the World Bank Doing Business Report. Nevertheless, the main At the same time, the unemployment rate has climbed to obstacles to doing business here still include a weak and unac- 30.4 % compared to 27.5 % in 2016, and Kosovo still has the high- countable administration, weak rule of law, corruption and a per- est unemployment and lowest employment rate in Europe. High vasive informal economy. Informal work remains at a high level, youth unemployment (51.6 %) demonstrates a clear misalignment accounting for around 30 % of GDP 5. between the educational system and labour-market needs (i.e. a With regard to employment policy, the government has adopt- mismatch between students’ qualifications and skills and what is ed the 2018 – 2022 sector strategy. The government developed needed in the job market). This calls for more active labour market an action plan to tackle youth unemployment in line with com- policies, pre-qualification schemes and vocational-training pro- mitments under the European Reform Agenda. The budget ear- grammes (European Commission, 2018). marked for active labour-market measures remains insufficient. Moreover, the unemployment rate for people under 25 years Public employment services have improved their performance in of age displays a major difference between the genders, and matching employers to employees. indicates that young women have a weak attachment to the labour market. The incidence of unemployment among young women is 67 % in Kosovo, a pattern that is only comparable in KEY FINDINGS Bosnia and Herzegovina and in Serbia. On the other hand, unemployment among young people has declined the most for —— Kosovo has a high share of 25 % of NEETs (young people who highly skilled labour when comparing 2016 with 2010, while are not undergoing education or training). Gender disparities low-skilled young people face increased numbers of unemployed with regard to social status are very pronounced. Females (WB & WIIW, 2017). have very high levels of NEET and education, while males are The Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare finalised the draft more present in the employment market. Unemployment is Action Plan on Youth Employment and it was adopted by the more widespread among children whose parents have only Government on 4 January 2018. This measure aims to achieve attained lower levels of education, those from poorer house- full functionality of the Employment Agency in providing quality holds and mostly rural areas. services in the transition from vocational training to employment, 46 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

—— The prevailing perception is that acquaintances and connec- FIGURE 39: Unemployment rates (15-29), tions with people in power that imply that an individual is % of labor force considered to be well-positioned in the social structure help to find a job in 54 – 58 % of cases. Moreover, education and expertise are held to have a similar impact. 50 % 43 —— Young people in Kosovo frequently (54 % of them) work at 45 % 41 39 jobs which do not align with their occupation. This shows a 40 % high degree of mismatch between workforce qualifications 35 % 29 and needs and demand in the market for labour. Females ap- 30 % 26 pear to have a greater tendency to work in their occupation. 25 % 19 19 20 20 % —— Over-education is another important dimension of a high- 16 skills mismatch. In Kosovo around 44 % of actual jobs of 15 % 12 young people require a lower level of formal education com- 10 % pared to the existing level of youth employed in those jobs. 5 % —— The striking figure with regard to the most-preferred employ- 0 % ment prospect is that 70 per cent of those surveyed would Serbia Kosovo Albania Croatia Bulgaria Slovenia like to work in the public sector and only 23 per cent in the Romania Macedonia private sector. The desire to work for the public sector is quite Montenegro problematic compared to other countries in the region. Only

18 % of employed young people in Kosovo work in the public HerzegovinaBosnia and sector, while the discrepancy between reality and preferences are the greatest in the region. —— Job security is the main factor that young people in Kosovo On the other hand, a majority of youth are involved in some kind consider when choosing a job. This implies significant con- of education or training. 52 % of young people are only undergo- cern about employees’ rights, lengthy hours of work, prob- ing education and are not employed, while another 8 % are si- lems with salaries, etc. Those who are more concerned about multanously undergoing education and are employed. Young job security have a greater desire to work in the public sector NEETs are more concentrated in rural areas. Furthermore, the and are less satisfied with the quality of education in Kosovo. gender disparity in social status is very pronounced. Females have very high levels of NEET and education, while males are Kosovo together with BiH and Albania suffer from high unem- more present in the employment market. ployment rates. Unemployment is more widespread among children of parents with lower levels of education who come from poorer households and mostly from rural areas. IMPORTANT FACTORS IN Kosovo has a high share of NEETs (youth not undergoing either FINDING A JOB education or training who are not employed, either; they can be termed “lost souls” 6). Those who are neither employed nor un- There are several factors that are considered to have a similar dergoing education account for around 25 % (EU 28 average 2014: impact in finding a job. The prevailing perception – that acquaint- 17 %). On the other hand, close to 23 % of young people are ances and connections with people in power translate into an employed, or are employed and undergoing education at the same individual’s position in the social structure – is considered to be time (8 %). very important by 54 – 58 % of respondents. Moreover, educa-

FIGURE 40: Employment or education engagement of the youth

TOTAL 26 52 8 15

URBANITY Rural 29 49 6 16

Urban 20 56 11 14

GENDER Male 19 46 11 24

Female 33 57 4 6

% NEET Both

Only in education Only in employment Employment 47

FIGURE 41: Important factors to find a job

Acquaintances (friends, relatives …) 5 3 16 17 58 1 Level of education 3 3 15 20 57 2

Expertise 3 3 17 20 55 Connections with people who are in power 7 4 15 18 54 2 Education or work experiences from abroad 4 4 17 22 50 3 Luck 6 7 26 18 42 Party membership 22 7 15 17 35 3

Where you come from (your region) 24 13 22 15 23 2

% Very important Not important at all

4 Don´t know

3 No answer

2 tion and expertise have the same impact. On the other hand, OVER-EDUCATION party membership and origin are less important. There is a slight difference in relation to gender, with females considering exper- Over-education is another important dimension in the considera- tise and the level of education to be the main factors in finding a ble skills mismatch, constituting a significant problem in Kosovo, job, while males are more oriented towards using acquaintances Serbia and Albania. In Kosovo around 44 % of actual jobs of and connections with people in power. young people require a lower level of formal education than the existing level of young people employed in those jobs. Another 46 % of young people in Kosovo appear to have a job that is in SKILL MISSMATCHES line with their achieved level of education, a figure that is barely half the level in Croatia or Bulgaria. It is not surprising that Young people in Kosovo are frequently (54 % of them) in a posi- over-education is considerably more prevalent among highly ed- tion of working at jobs that do not align with the occupation ucated young people in Kosovo (Spearman’s rho=-.201, p=0.004). they are trained in. Of the young people who are currently employed, only 27 % are currently working in their chosen occupa- FIGURE 42: Young people working or not in their tion, while 9 % are working in jobs that are related to their occu- profession pation. This is a net decrease of 6 per cent compared to 2012. On the other hand, there has been a very significant increase in the I haven´t been 18 trained for any number of young people who declare that they do not work in profession 7 their occupation, shooting up from 36 % to 54 % of the young people who have been part of the workforce in the last six years. No, I don´t 36 work in my This indicates a significant mismatch between workforce qualifi- profession 54 cations and the needs and demand of the market for labour. Fe- males appear to have a greater tendency to work in their occupa- I work in a job 13 quite close to tion, while males are more likely not to work in their occupation my profession 9 (Spearman’s rho=-.180, p=0.008). The lower the father’s highest level of education, the greater the possibility that young people 29 Yes, I work in will not work in their occupation (Spearman’s rho=-.188, my profession 27 p=0.005). On the other hand, young people who have performed internships and practical positions have a greater chance 4 DK / NA of working in their profession (Pearson Chi-Square V=28.634, 3 Spearman Correlation=.344, p<0.001).

0% 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 %

2012 (N=221)

2018 (N=169) 48 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 43: Formal education requirements of young people´s job

Croatia 17 80 3 Bulgaria 21 76 3 Romania 22 70 9 Macedonia 25 62 13

Bosnia and Herzegovina 28 63 9

Montenegro 31 64 5

Slovenia 33 59 8

Albania 37 57 6

Serbia 39 55 6

Kosovo 44 46 11

% Requires a lower level of formal education compared to yours

Is in line with your achieved level of formal education

Requires a higher level of formal education compared to yours

FIGURE 44: Working in public sector: reality and preference

80 %

70 69 70 %

60 %

50 50 % 48 45 42 41 40 % 33 29 29 30 %

22 20 20 18 18 20 % 16 16 15 16 15

10 %

0 % Serbia Kosovo Albania Croaitia Bulgaria Slovenia Romania Macedonia Montenegro Bosnia and HerzegovinaBosnia and Work in public sector

Would like to work in public sector

CHOICE OF WORK public sector in 2012. It is noteworthy that the young people whose objective is to work for an international institution has Only a small portion of young people in Kosovo are part of the declined from 19 % in 2012 to 5 % in 2018. The decrease in the labour force. One striking figure reflecting the most preferred presence of international institutions in Kosovo has had implica- type of employment is that 70 per cent of those surveyed want tions even for the number of young Kosovars who want to work to work in the public sector and only 23 per cent in the private for them. The desire to work for the public sector is quite prob- sector. Only 47 per cent of Kosovo’s youth favoured a job in the lematic compared to other countries in the region. Only 18 % of Employment 49

FIGURE 45: Choice of work preferable sector

4 NGO 2

20 International institutions 5

14 29 Private sector 14 23

47 Public sector 11 70 2012

2018 0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 % 80 % 90 % 100 %

FIGURE 46: Main factors for choosing a job

Job security 4 11 83

Having enough leisure time besides the job 7 15 75 Career opportunities 7 16 72

Income / salary 7 21 71 Having the feeling of achieving something when it comes to choosing a job 9 18 69 Working with people 11 20 66

Very important Not important at all %

4 Don´t know

3 No answer

employed young people in Kosovo are working in the public sec- and problems with salaries. There are a host of significant sta- tor, while the discrepancy between reality and preferences are tistical correlations concerning job security with youth people the highest in the region. Females are more inclined to work in in Kosovo. Those who are concerned about job security also the public sector (71 %), while males have a higher incidence in tend to be more convinced that incomes of the poor and the the private sector (Spearman’s rho=-.146, p<0.001). Young peo- rich should be more equal (Spearman’s rho=.244, p<0.001), ple living in smaller communities are more inclined to prefer with the correlation here being quite high. The deterioration in working in the public sector (Spearman’s rho=.109, p=0.001) job conditions is pushing young people to forward more left- even though these job positions are mostly to be found in larger wing political demands. At the same time, those who worried urban areas. On the other hand, the higher the level of education about job security are also interested in politics (Spearman’s completed by parents , the more likely young people are to prefer rho=.091, p=0.005). Arguably, they have a stronger desire to to work in the public sector (Spearman’s rho=-.080, p=0.011). work in the public sector, as it is considered to offer much greater job security (Spearman’s rho=-.096, p=0.002). At the same time, those unsettled by the issue of job security in Koso- FACTORS IN CHOOSING A JOB vo are also generally dissatisfied with the quality of education (Spearman’s rho=-.083, p=0.009), although on the other hand When choosing a job, young people are oriented primarily to- they appear to be more satisfied with their lives in general wards workers’ rights, which are considered very important in (Spearman’s rho=.220, p<0.001). 83 per cent of cases. Job security and having leisure time out- Young people who are more interested in income/salary are side the job confirm the impression created by the focus-group slighly more numerous in rural areas (Spearman’s rho=.095, discussions that the main concerns of workers in the private p=0.003), and also appear to be more satisfied with their lives in sector revolve around employees’ rights, lengthy hours of work general (Spearman’s rho=.088, p<0.001). 50 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

Focus-group discussions reveal that public-sector jobs are more DISCUSSION ON EMPLOYMENT preferred because of job security, permanent contracts and employees’ rights. “I prefer to work in the public sector because Study results reflect a significant mismatch between the labour private sector employers don’t pay taxes or pensions. They don’t market supply and demand for jobs throughout the generation even pay salaries every month. There are better working condi- of young people. tions in the public sector, such as annual vacations.” (Dragash, The findings of the survey highlight the fears of youth concern- female, 28 years old). On the other hand, it appears too difficult ing the chances of working in the private sector compared to the to find a job in the public sector.“Having a political connection public sector. Lower salaries in the private sector together with is the main factor in finding a job. If a person wants to get hired the poor level of job security are fundamental issues that have in the public sector, all they need is a diploma and relatives/po- increased distrust in the labour market and economic environment. litical connections. It is very important to belong to a political party or have connections allowing one to access these institutions.” (Prishtina, female, 26 years old).

53 8

DEMOCRACY AND GOVERNMENT

In this part of the study, we present the views of young people in point regarding lack of representation is almost the same Kosovo on politics – their feeling of representation and influence across the board regardless of the demographic filter applied on politics, trust in institutions, and their ideological orientations. to the young population (urban, gender, age, etc.). The way young people see the political system and politics in a —— TV and the Internet are the main information tool when it society is important with regard to active participation in a dem- comes to political issues, although the Internet combined ocratic society, and the belief that the political system is to every- with social networks dominate the present and will dominate one’s benefit and ensures equal conditions for development. the future world of information for young people. The more Kosovo saw very intense political activity in 2017, as both par- young people use the Internet as an information tool, the less lamentary elections and local government elections were held in probable it is that they voted in the last election, and the the same year (local elections on 22 October 2017 and parliamen- more pessimistic they are likely to be regarding the economic tary elections on 11 June 2017). situation of Kosovo in the future. —— Although young people tend to say are not interested in national politics, young people in Kosovo displayed a very high KEY FINDINGS level of participation in the last elections. The data indicate that there are other reasons motivating young people to get —— There has been a dramatic decrease in young people’s inter- out and vote. est in political events compared to 2012. Young people ex- —— Kosovo youth struggle when they are asked to characterise press a slightly greater interest in local governance. Two- themselves as leaning to the “right” or “left” in their political thirds of young people in Kosovo do not discuss, or rarely orientation. Regarding their positioning on the left or the right discuss, politics with family or acquaintances. Young people of the political scale, young people tend to have problems un- tend to be more inclined to engage in political discussions derstanding these categories and locating their position along with family or acquaintances when they have completed the political spectrum. A small majority of respondents believe higher levels of education, or when they live in urban areas. that they have a “right-wing” political orientation, but share —— Parents’ influence on the political views of young people in “left-wing” opinions on economic and social issues as well on Kosovo is not high. Around one-third of youth in Kosovo do the role of the state in providing social welfare. not align their views and beliefs with their parents, while —— There is a record level of distrust and apathy among Kosovo another quarter of young people state that they do not youth toward all political institutions, especially the political know or did not answer this question. These figures show parties and national government. Moreover, there is greater a significant potential shift in political orientation between scepticism among youth regarding civil society organisations generations. and media outlets. On the other hand, there is greater trust —— Just 10 % of young Kosovars are of the opinion that their in- in religious institutions and international organisations like terests are “well” represented in national politics. This view- NATO and the OSCE. 54 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 47: Interest in political events

Politics in Russia 81 7 5 3 3 Politics in the US 66 11 13 4 3 3 Politics in the EU 65 11 12 6 3 3

Politics in general 63 12 15 4 5 Politics in (Kosovo) on a national level 55 14 15 7 6 3

Politics in (Kosovo) on a regional / local level 53 12 16 9 8 3

% Very interested Not interested at all

4 Don´t know

3 No answer

—— One-quarter of young people in Kosovo are satisfied with the later this figure is 4 times lower (13 %). This strong shift in interest situation of democracy in their country. Political turmoil and in national politics together with diminishing trust in politicians fragile governments have led to almost 60 per cent of young and political insitutions reflect a wider rejection of being seen as people in Kosovo favouring a strong leadership, with 18 per interested in politics than it does a real reduction in interest. cent clearly articulating a preference for dictatorship under some circumstances. FIGURE 48: Interest in politics comparing 2012 to 2018 —— Expression of a political position through civic activism in mostly unpopular, as only 13 per cent have been active in 7 civil society on a voluntary basis. Young people living in urban 2018 6 areas who are members of families in a better economic situation are more inclined toward political activism. 27 —— Although there is a high degree of frustration with the situa- 2012 28 Very interested tion in all important areas that matter in the present and fu- Interested ture, young people in Kosovo feel rather optimistic in their 0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % forecast of the future, as 62 per cent of them believe that the economic situation of people in Kosovo will improve over the next 10 years. Young people who are members of families Focus-group discussions painted a slightly different picture. Par- that are not financially well off are also more optimistic about ticipants declared that they perceive politics as a part of their the future, as are young people living in rural areas. everyday lives. They do not participate in political initiatives, but —— It is surprising that both main ethnic groups single out “poor they inform themselves, and have conversations and debates al- people” and “disabled people” as groups that have fewer most every day. Many respondents are not happy with overall rights in Kosovo. This confirms that the biggest problems political developments. They perceive the political class to be cor- are of a socio-economic nature, and relate to poverty and rupt, but also point out that this is the case with the whole of unemployment. society in Kosovo. “How should we be happy when our Prime Minister, who is very rich, has increased his own salary? That is Young people do not express great interest in political events, all he did.” (Vushtri, female, 25 years old). regardless of whether the issue involves global politics, local Respondents are more interested in national politics when they politics, Kosovo or EU politics. Between 65 % and 76 % of re- have completed higher levels of education (Spearman’s rho=.224, spondents7 are not interested or not interested at all in political p<0.001), or their father has completed a higher level of education events, depending on the scale of the political event. Young (Spearman’s rho=.233, p<0.001). Older youth are obviously more people express more interest in local governance, followed by interested in politics than their younger peers (Spearman’s politics at the national level, while there is less interest in the EU rho=.153, p<0.001). Moreover, younger people who live in urban and world politics. areas are slightly more interested than those in rural areas (Spear- On the other hand, there has been a dramatic change among man’s rho=-.129, p<0.001). Kosovo youth compared to the same study conducted in 2012. In Respondents in different ethnic groups voice very different 2012 interest in national politics was considerable, with about responses to this question. Kosovo Albanians appear to not be 56 % of the young people interviewed reporting that they are interested in politics, while Kosovo Serbs and Kosovo Turks are more “very interested” or “interested” in Kosovo politics, whereas 6 years interested in local and national politics, or politics in general. Democracy and Government 55

FIGURE 49: Disinterest in politics for different ethnic groups (showing only those who are “not interested at all” and “not interested”)

12 Politics in (Kosovo) on a regional / local level 18 22

14 Politics in (Kosovo) on a national level 19

12 Politics in general 24

10 Politics in the EU 31

10 Politics in the US 43 22

5 Politics in Russia 30

0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 % 80 % 90 % 100 %

K-Albanians: Not interested at all K-Serbs: Not interested at all

K-Albanians: 2 K-Serbs: 2

HOW OFTEN DO YOU DISCUSS .098, p<0.001). There is a strong correlation between young indi- POLITICS WITH YOUR FAMILY OR viduals who are interested in national politics and those who ACQUAINTANCES? discuss these issues more with family and friends (Spearman’s rho=.576, p<0.001). When asked about how often they discuss politics with family or acquaintances, around 63 % of Kosovo youth respond with “never” or “rarely”. Respondents are more likely to discuss politics TO WHAT EXTENT ARE YOUR POLITI- with family or acquaintances when they complete higher levels of CAL VIEWS AND BELIEFS ALIGNED education (Spearman’s rho=.265, p<0.001), or their father has WITH THOSE OF YOUR PARENTS? completed a higher level of education (Spearman’s rho=.272, p<0.001). Older youth are obviously more interested in politics Parents do not have a great influence on the political views of than their younger peers (Spearman’s rho=.207, p<0.001). More- young people in Kosovo. Around one-third of youth in Kosovo do over, younger people who live in urban areas are slightly more not align their views and beliefs with their parents, while another interested than those who live in rural areas (Spearman’s rho=- quarter of young people say they do not know or did not answer 56 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 50: Level of discussion of politics with family or acquaintances

TOTAL (N=1.000) 39 24 22 5 7 3

AGE 24–29 y. o. (N=235) 31 23 29 4 9 2

18–23 y. o. (N=371) 37 24 22 6 6 4

14–17 y. o. (N=394) 51 25 13 4 4 2

UR Rural (N=610) 43 22 20 4 6 2 Urban (N=390) 32 26 24 5 8 4

GENDER Male (N=413) 37 24 24 5 6 2 Female (N=587) 41 24 19 4 7 3

% Very often Never

4 Don´t know

3 No answer

FIGURE 51: Political views alignment compared to respective parents

TOTAL (N=1.000) 20 13 20 9 13 12 14

AGE 24–29 y. o. (N=235) 14 14 24 10 15 10 13

18–23 y. o. (N=371) 22 15 19 10 12 9 13

14–17 y. o. (N=394) 24 8 15 7 12 18 16

UR Rural (N=610) 22 12 17 9 13 12 14 Urban (N=390) 17 15 23 9 13 10 13

GENDER Male (N=413) 19 12 21 9 14 11 15 Female (N=587) 21 14 19 9 12 13 12

% Very much Not at all

4 Don´t know

3 No answer

2 this question. These figures show a significant potential shift in HOW WELL DO YOU THINK YOUNG political orientation between generations. PEOPLE’S INTERESTS ARE REPRE- Statistical correlations show some similar results compared to SENTED IN NATIONAL POLITICS? the previous questions. The most striking correlation is that political views are more aligned in families that discuss politics more Only 10 % of young Kosovars think that their interests are repre- often (Spearman’s rho=.487, p<0.001). Once again, the higher the sented “well” or “very well” in national politics. This opinion that level of education of the father of the family, the greater the there is a lack of representation is almost the same across all the similarity between the political views of younger individuals and main demographic categories of the young population. The only those of their parents (Spearman’s rho=.223, p<0.001). significant statistical correlation is with younger individuals, who are very optimistic about the economic situation of people in Kosovo in the next 10 years (Spearman’s rho=.150, p<0.001) Democracy and Government 57

FIGURE 52: Young people’s interests represented in national politics

TOTAL (N=1.000) 28 18 28 6 4 15 1

AGE 24–29 y. o. (N=235) 29 19 29 6 4 13 1

18–23 y. o. (N=371) 27 20 28 8 4 11 2

14–17 y. o. (N=394) 27 14 28 5 4 22 1

UR Rural (N=610) 27 17 28 5 5 18 1 Urban (N=390) 29 20 29 9 2 9 2

GENDER Male (N=413) 30 18 29 5 4 13 1 Female (N=587) 26 18 27 8 4 16 2

% Very well Not at all

4 Don´t know

3 No answer

FIGURE 53: Main sources of information on politics

TV 67 Internet 65 Online social networks 31 Discussions within the family 16 Conversations with friends 14 Daily newspapers 6 Don´t know 3 No answer 5

Total (N=1000) 0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 % 80 % 90 % 100 %

WHAT ARE YOUR MAIN SOURCES OF more likely to live in rural areas (Spearman’s rho=.127, p<0.001). INFORMATION ON POLITICS? They were more likely to have voted in the last elections (Spear- man’s rho=.080, p<0.012), and are much more optimistic about Regarding interest in political events, young people were asked the economic situation of Kosovo in the next 10 years (Spearman’s how they get information on politics. TV and Internet compete rho=.143, p<0.001) as the main information tool for political issues. If we combine the Internet and online social networks, then we have the most important tool regarding these issues. There is quite an interest- VOTING DURING ELECTIONS ing difference between young people who use TV or the Internet as their main source of information. Newspapers and radio Given the low level of interest in politics and limited tendency scarcely serve as sources of information for young people. Young to discuss politics, one would expect an inevitably low level of people who are members of the older age cohort (24 – 29) use youth participation in political life and use of the democratic the Internet as their main information tool (Spearman’s rho=.071, right to vote. In this study, young people were asked how of- p=0.025). Moreover, the higher the level of education, the more ten they vote in parliamentary and local elections. Although they use the Internet as their main tool (Spearman’s rho=.185, the level of interest in politics is low, the level of participation p<0.001). On the other hand, those who use the Internet as an by young people in elections is very high, with 82 per cent of information tool are less likely to have voted in the last election those who had the right to vote having voted in the last elec- (Spearman’s rho=-.165, p<0.001). tions. These data indicate that there could be other reasons Young people who mostly use TV to get information are usu- that need to be explored in future studies that motivate young ally a bit younger (Spearman’s rho=-.063, p=0.046), have com- people to get out and vote, regardless of their lack of interest pleted less education (Spearman’s rho=-.079, p=0.013) and are in politics. 58 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 54: Voting in last elections FIGURE 55: Voting if elections were held today

Total (N=616) Total (N=1.000)

Yes: 82 % Yes: 78 % Don‘t know: 8%

No, although I had the right to vote: 18 % No: 13 % No answer: 1 %

FIGURE 56: Attitude toward different policies

Incomes of the poor and the rich should be made more equal 23 7 17 12 30 10 Government ownership of business and industry should be increased 4 4 14 13 54 9 2 Government should take more responsibility to ensure 3 2 9 14 69 3 that everyone is provided for Competition is harmful, it brings out the worst in people 2 12 12 70 4

% Totally agree Totally disagree

4 Don´t know

3 No answer

Statistically significant differences between groups of respond- OPPOSING POLITICAL STANCES – ents were found in some cases. Females are less inclined to vote LEFT TO RIGHT ON THE POLITICAL compared to males (Spearman’s rho=-.068, p=0.025), and young SPECTRUM people in rural areas have a higher participation rate in the last elections (Spearman’s rho=-0.065, p=0.033). With respect to individuals’ positioning on the left to the right of Very similar results are produced when young people are asked the political spectrum, young people tend to have problems un- if they would vote in national parliamentary elections if they were derstanding these categories and positioning themselves on the to be held today and they were eligible to vote. 78 per cent of scale. The majority of respondents (65 %) believe that they tend young people state that they would vote in the next elections, to share a centrist political orientation, while only 20 % and 15 %, while 13 per cent respond say that they would not vote. respectively, share “right-wing” and “left-wing” political views. Political categories of “left and right” do not mean anything to a large number of young people; hence their attitude toward politics is different. When asked if incomes of the poor and rich should be made more equal, this statement meets with more approval by younger people who position themselves on the “right” side of the politic spectrum, reflecting the uncertainty and contradictions existing with regard to these political aspects (Spearman’s rho=.155, p=0.001). Moreover, young people who Democracy and Government 59

FIGURE 57: Acceptance of different national and international institutions

Political parties 57 17 19 4 1

The president 54 16 20 4 4 National government 50 19 21 5 3

National parliament 48 17 24 5 3 Local government 40 18 26 9 6

Civil society organizations 30 17 29 11 6 5

Judiciary (courts) 30 20 24 11 12 3 Media in your country 24 20 33 12 8 2 Big companies 17 14 35 10 10 11

Banks 16 11 33 15 17 6 Trade unions 16 14 32 11 8 15 3 European Union 13 8 29 18 22 8

Volunteer movements 12 11 32 17 15 11

OSCE 11 12 28 13 16 16 4 Army 11 5 22 17 41 2 United Nations 10 8 27 18 27 8 5 Police 10 9 27 19 34 1

IMF 10 10 24 14 18 18 6 NATO 9 6 23 16 42 3

Religious institutions 7 7 21 17 46 2

Fully Not at all

4 Don´t know

3 No answer

support these “leftist” ideas more are more numerous in rural On the other hand, there is greater trust in religious institutions areas (Spearman’s rho=.093, p=0.003) and are usually not sat- and international organisations like NATO and the OSCE. Further- isfied with the state of democracy in Kosovo (Spearman’s rho=- more, confidence in the army and police is much greater than in .105, p= 0.001). other services of the public sector.

TRUST IN INSTITUTIONS HOW SATISFIED ARE YOU WITH THE STATE OF DEMOCRACY IN KOSOVO One important issue in connection with the legitimacy and satis- IN GENERAL? faction of citizens with democratic society is their trust in institutions. Young people were offered to state their degree of trust or Only 19 per cent of youth in Kosovo are “satisfied” or “very distrust towards 20 (public and private) institutions on a scale satisfied” with the state of democracy in Kosovo. Young people from 1 to 5, where 1 means “no trust” and 5 “great trust”. who are over 23 and less than 30 years old are less satisfied Generally speaking, there is a high level of mistrust in all po- compared to the younger age cohorts (Spearman’s rho=-.080, litical institutions, from political parties to local government. This p=0.008). At the same time, young people who have complet- is probably also influenced by recent general and local elections ed higher levels of education are generally less satisfied with and political deadlocks over the issue of demarcating the border the state of democracy (Spearman’s rho=-.099, p=0.001). On with Montenegro and other political issues. Moreover, there is a the other hand, young people living in urban areas are slightly higher degree of scepticism among youth regarding civil society more satisfied with the situation of democracy in Kosovo organisations and media outlets. (Spearman’s rho=-.062, p=0.039) 60 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 58: Satisfaction with the state of democracy

TOTAL (N=1.000) 21 19 39 15 4 2

EDU University or higher (N=94) 25 24 35 13 3 High school (N=464) 22 19 38 14 5 1 Up to 8–9 years of school (N=439) 18 17 41 16 3 3

UR Rural (N=610) 23 19 38 14 4 2 Urban (N=390) 17 20 40 16 4 2

GENDER Male (N=413) 24 20 36 15 4 1 Female (N=587) 18 18 42 14 4 2

% Very satisfied Very dissatisfied

4 Don´t know

3 No answer

FIGURE 59: Agreement with specific political opinions

It is the duty of every citizen in a democracy 68 to vote 9

Young people should have more possibilities 65 to speak out in politics 14

I don´t think politicians care about young 49 people´s opinions 15

Democracy is a good form of government 46 in general 16

We should have a leader, who rules Kosovo 45 with a strong hand for the public good 15

A political opposition is necessary for a 44 healthy democracy 17

A strong party representing the common folk in 43 general is what we need in Kosovo right now 15

There are conflicts in every society which can 9 only be solved by violence 7

Under certain circumstances dictatorship is a 8 better form of government than democracy 10 Completely agree

0% 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 % Somewhat agree Democracy and Government 61

POLITICAL OPINIONS FIGURE 60: Engagement in different forms of activism There is a considerable consensus among 77 per cent of young 12 people who somewhat or completely agree that citizens have the Signed a list with political requests / supported an online petition duty to vote in a democracy. Around 62 per cent share the opin- 11 ion that democracy is somehow a good form of government and 13 opposition is needed for a healthy democracy. However, political Participated in volunteer or civil society organization activities turmoil and fragile governments probably push almost 60 per 10 cent of young people to favour a “strong leadership” which could 11 mean both a strong democratic leader or a strong leader with Participated in a demonstration some tendencies towards dictatorship. Moreover, it appears that 11 18 per cent of young people favour a clear-cut dictatorship under 9 certain circumstances. Stopped buying things for political or environmental reasons 5

6 YOUNG PEOPLE AND POLITICAL Worked in a political party or PARTICIPATION political group 7

7 As regards other ways to express political positions, few young Participated in political activities online / in social networks people engage in any of the main forms of activism. We have 4 determined the extent to which young people in Kosovo are ac- 0% 10 % 20 % tive in public and civic life, and whether or not they are engaged in different activities. The results of this quantitative survey I´ve done this demonstrate that civic activism is unpopular among young peo- I haven´t yet, but I would ple, as only 13 per cent have volunteered for a civil society activity. Involvement in other political activities, such as participation in political demonstrations or signing petitions is still low at TO WHAT EXTENT SHOULD THE around 11 – 12 per cent. Among all the various methods of ex- NATIONAL GOVERNMENT FOCUS ON pressing a political position, Kosovar youth even use “consumer REALISATION OF THE FOLLOWING activism”, which means expressing a political or environmental OBJECTIVES? position by boycotting goods originating in some country, although only 9 per cent of young people have used this form of The top priority task for the government with regard to young expression. People living in urban areas (Spearman’s rho=-.174, people in Kosovo is to tackle the unemployment issue, and this p<0.001) and males (Spearman’s rho=.098, p=0.001) usually ex- opinion is shared across the three main ethnic groups in Kosovo. hibit a slightly greater tendency to engage in these activities. Other important tasks to focus on include economic growth and Moreover, young people who are part of families with a better the fight against crime and corruption. This position reflects the economic standing are more inclined to take part in civic activi- attitude of a majority of young people in Kosovo on political pri- ties (Spearman’s rho=.150, p<0.001). As expected, young orities. The study findings show a relatively homogenous percep- Kosovars who are less satisfied with their lives in general have tion of Kosovo Albanians and Kosovo Serbs on a variety of issues, more chances to take part in activist activities (Spearman’s rho=- with a few statistically significant differences on some issues. .063, p=0.038). Kosovo Albanians appear to expect everything from the govern- Taking into account ethnic divisions, Kosovo Serbs exhibit a ment, as at least nine objectives to be very important to more much higher degree of activism, with at least 30 per cent of these than 70 per cent. The fight against corruption should be the sec- young people having participated in voluntary activities, and a ond most important objective for the government for both Koso- slightly greater commitment when it comes to political activities. vo Serbs and Kosovo Turks, while Kosovo Serbs appear not to approve of a strengthening of military power or efforts to foster national identity. The chart shows that almost every problem en- quired about within the scope of this study is alarming to young Kosovo Albanian youngsters. A sizable part of the focus-group participants admitted that they have witnessed bribery or nepotism in connection with education and employment, confirming that fair employment together with unemployment and corruption remain the main 62 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 61: Preferable objectives for the national government according to different ethnic groups

Reduction of unemployment 87 77

Securing human rights and freedoms 81 67

Economic growth and development 80 66

Fight against crime and corruption 77 69

Improving the position of young peole 78 59

Preservation of natural environment 79 61 34

Social justice and social security for all 77 64 30

Improving the position of women 76 52 24

Strengthening of military power 72 and national security 9 24

Fight against illegal immigration 58 of people 40

Development of private 51 entrepreneurship 56

Fostering population growth 50 38 20

Fostering national identity 47 K-Albanians (N=969) 18 K-Serbs (N=181) 6 K-Turks (N=50)

0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 % 80 % 90 % 100 % Democracy and Government 63

FIGURE 62: Future expectations for the economic situation in Kosovo

K-Albanians (N=969) 4 5 25 28 34 4 K-Serbs (N=181) 13 11 47 6 2 21 K-Turks (N=50) 2 2 36 14 10 36

% Will improve significantly Will be much worse

4 Don´t know

3 No answer

FIGURE 63: Shown Not enough rights only

78 Poor people 87

61 Disabled people 77

56 Young people 80

58 Women 57

46 Children 41

36 Ethnic minorities 70

31 Religious people 50

33 Homosexual / LGBT people 24 K-Albanians

K-Serbs 0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 % 80 % 90 % 100 %

priority tasks that the government should tackle to ensure a (34 % – will improve significantly, 28 % – will improve to some better future for young people in Kosovo. extent). It is rather to be expected that very few Kosovo Serbs expect that the economic situation in Kosovo will improve, with the bulk of them expecting the situation not to change. Young THE ECONOMIC SITUATION OF Kosovo Turks appear to have an opinion lying between the other PEOPLE IN KOSOVO OVER THE two ethnic groups, although a fair number of them did not know NEXT 10 YEARS how to answer to this question. The statistical correlations show that the young people who are on the poor side of the wealth As for future expectations, young Kosovo Albanians feel rather index score are slightly more optimistic about the future (Spear- optimistic, with 62 per cent of them believing that the economic man’s rho=-.070, p=0.021). Moreover, young people living in ru- situation of people in Kosovo will improve over the next 10 years ral areas are also more optimistic (Spearman’s rho=.160, p<0.001). 64 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

WHICH GROUPS DO NOT HAVE THREE MOST IMPORTANT VALUES ENOUGH RIGHTS IN YOUR COUNTRY? When asked about the three most important values for young It is surprising that both main ethnic groups single out “poor people of Kosovo, the main important value for Kosovo Albani- people” and “disabled people” as the groups that have fewer ans remains employment (67 per cent), while Kosovo Serbs are rights in Kosovo. This is probably related to explicit attitudes also focused mostly on the economic welfare of citizens (59 per- about problems in Kosovo society, as the biggest problems cent). It is worth mentioning that both groups included human are of a socio-economic nature, related to poverty and unem- rights as a top-three value. ployment, and subterfuge other issues that could be related On the other hand, Kosovo Serbs are more concerned about more to the expression of rights in Kosovo society. The study “security”, a value that they consider to be one of the top three findings appear to indicate relatively homogenous perceptions issues of importance in 60 per cent of cases. among both main ethnic groups, except when they are asked about the rights of ethnic groups. TRUST IN INSTITUTIONS FIGURE 64: Most important values According to the current study, young people trust international organisations, EU institutions and NATO more than national 67 Employment or local institutions. Their high level of trust in international or- 39 ganisations can be explained by the active role of international institutions in helping Kosovo to gain independence and build a 36 Democracy democracy. 23 Respondents were asked to evaluate several groups and institutions on a 1 – 5 trust scale, where 1 means “not at all” and 5 Human 51 rights means “fully trust”. 53 Among young people in Kosovo, political parties, the government, the Parliament and the President are the least trusted insti- The rule 33 of law tutions on average, scoring less than 2 points on the 5-point trust 48

Economic 31 FIGURE 65: Trust in institutions welfare of citizens 59 Political parties 1,7 The president 1,9 34 Security National government 1,9 60 National parliament 1,9

Local government 2,2 30 Equality Civil society organizations 2,4 9 Judiciary (courts) 2,5 Media in your country 2,6 Individual 10 freedom Trade unions 2,8 9 Big companies 2,8 Banks 3,1 2 Don´t know OSCE 3,1 0 Volunteer movements 3,2 IMF 3,3 2 No answer European Union 3,3 0 United Nations 3,5 0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 % Police 3,6

Army 3,8 K-Albanians NATO 3,8 K-Serbs Church, religious institutions 3,9

0 1 2 3 4 5

On a scale from 1 to 5 where 1=not at all and 5 = fully Democracy and Government 65

Nevertheless, there are just two cases where young Kosovo Serbs FIGURE 66: Differences in trust of institutions have greater trust compared to young Kosovo Albanians. They between two ethnic groups have a greater trust in civil-society organisations and local government. 3,9 NATO 1,4 DISCUSSION 3,9 Army 1,8 In terms of political ideology, in most cases young people in Kosovo are inclined to avoid a clear political orientation. On the 3,7 Police other hand, they believe that the government is responsible for 2,6 providing a social environment assuring equality and providing every citizen with basic necessities. Moreover, disadvantaged 3,5 United Nations youth have a greater need for social justice. Nevertheless, the 2,6 need for more social policies is not being pursued by means of civic activism among young people, as they feel that they receive 3,4 European Union sufficient support from their families. 1,9 The survey results imply that young Kosovars are rather disin- terested in political activities and have negative attitudes towards 3,4 IMF politicians and political institutions. Young people view politics as 1,3 an informal business and believe that people involved in politics have a huge amount of power and act solely in their personal 3,2 OSCE interests. 1,5 Young people in Kosovo feel that they are excluded from political decision-making processes. 3,1 Banks 1,8

Civil society 2,4 organizations 3,0

2,2 Local government 2,5

0 1 2 3 4 5

K-Albanians On a scale from 1 to 5 where 1=not at all and 5 = fully

K-Serbs

scale. This information, according to which young people in Koso- vo have more trust in international political institutions than do- mestic institutions, media and civil society, is a bad indication of the state of democracy. The trust vested in the police and army are the only good examples of the institutions that still have high levels of trust and should be used as an example of other domes- tic institutions. Statistically significant differences and a clear divide between two ethnic groups have been established for at least 9 institutions. Kosovo Albanians have a very great trust in international organisations, starting with NATO, the United Nations, EU, IMF and OSCE. On the other hand, Kosovo Serbs have very low level of trust in NATO, the IMF and OSCE, and an average level of trust in the United Nations.

67 9

ASPIRATIONS TO MIGRATE

This study examined various aspects of youth migration. Migra- index scores, indicating that all the different groups have sim- tion flows – voluntary and involuntary – have been a continuing ilar intentions of migrating. pattern in the changing population of Kosovo. For the last two —— Out of those respondents that indicated some desire to mi- decades, migration flows have drastically intensified in the con- grate, Kosovo Albanians appear to have a stronger intention text of the disintegration of Yugoslavia and the war of independ- of migrating in the near future (at least in 51 per cent of cas- ence. In 2014 – 2015 there was a new wave of emigration to- es). On the other hand, out of those Kosovo Serbs who have wards the European Union. While these young persons with their some intention of migrating, in 55 per cent of cases they are creative potential are making a positive contribution to other not sure when they will migrate. developed societies, their home country remains among the —— Nearly 40 per cent of Kosovo Albanians want to migrate for a handful of underdeveloped countries in Europe. short to medium period of time that is less than five years. On On 14 June 2012, Kosovo received its much-awaited visa-lib- the other hand, close to 35 per cent want to migrate for eralisation roadmap. The roadmap listed all the reforms and re- good. Young people living in rural areas have a stronger de- quirements that Kosovo needs to complete in order to quality for sire to migrate for longer periods. visa-free travel to the Schengen area. Indeed, it had been a long —— Economic reasons are stated as the main reason for migration wait. Kosovo is the only country in the Balkans whose citizens are by around 63 per cent of all those who want to leave Kosovo still required to obtain a visa to enter the Schengen zone8. Koso- for another country of destination. Those persons who can vo is waiting for the final decision on the visa-liberalisation process be considered “poor” are more likely to cite economic rea- by the European Parliament. sons for migration. —— Switzerland and Germany are the most preferred countries to migrate for Kosovars, with these countries being stated as KEY FINDINGS the main preference for migration in 49 per cent of the cases. There has been a notable increase in preferences for France, —— The majority of Kosovo’s young people do not intend to study Austria and Sweden, and a decline in preferences for the USA or obtain training abroad. These figures show a low level of and Great Britain. involvement with foreign education and training systems, —— One-quarter of young people from Kosovo who are willing to while most young people in Kosovo expect to undergo edu- migrate have a good working knowledge of the language of cation and training locally. their planned country of destination. It is interesting that a —— Nearly half of Kosovo’s young Albanians have a moderate to majority of those willing to migrate are not doing anything to very strong intention to leave Kosovo. At the same time, prepare themselves in advance for their future migration, or around 55 per cent of Kosovo Serbs respond in the same that they merely have a desire to migrate, but are not taking manner. There is no difference with regard to the intention to any additional steps to set the migration process in motion. migrate between age groups, levels of education, and wealth 68 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 67: Intention to study abroad

No, and I don´t intend to 61 No, but I intend to in the future 31 Yes, as part of higher education 3 Yes, as part of vocational education and training 3 Yes, as part of secondary (school) education 1 Yes, other 0

0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 % 80 % 90 % 100 % Total (N=1000)

FIGURE 68: Intention to migrate for more than six months

K-Albanians (N=969) K-Serbs (N=181)

I do not intend to emigrate: 43 % Moderate: 12 % I do not intend to emigrate: 30 % Moderate: 33 %

Very strong: 18 % Weak: 8 % Very strong: 5 % Weak: 9 %

Strong: 17 % Dont‘ know: 1 % Strong: 15 % Don‘t know: 7 %

No answer: 1 %

—— A high level of 63 per cent of young people from Kosovo LEARNING OR TRAINING ABROAD state that they would accept jobs that are not desired by local populations. Those who would accept less desirable jobs are Although there is a considerable diaspora abroad, especially in considered to want to migrate mainly for “economic reasons”, Europe, the majority of Kosovo’s young people (61 per cent of and as one would expect they tend to come from the “poor- cases) do not intend to study or train abroad. Very few of the er” quintile of the wealth index. respondents have been abroad and their contact with the world is not very great. Only three per cent of young Kosovars have In the context of this research, respondents were asked a set of been abroad to study at higher levels of education. Another questions regarding potential aspirations for a change in their three per cent have been abroad for vocational training and edu- place of residence, the motives for such and the preferred coun- cation. These figures show a low level of integration among tries to which they wished to emigrate. young people in Kosovo with foreign education and training systems, and they usually expect to undergo education and training locally. Young people living in urban areas have had more experience studying abroad. Young people from Kosovo want to go abroad, but not primarily for educational or learning purposes. Aspirations to Migrate 69

Only 12 per cent of young people in Kosovo have been away TIME OF MIGRATION AWAY FROM from Kosovo for more than six months. These can be considered KOSOVO AND MIGRATION PLANS “returnees” in the sense that they have migrated, but for many reasons have decided to come back to Kosovo. Regarding the time to migrate away from Kosovo, there is quite a difference between Kosovo Albanians and Kosovo Serbs. Only respondents that showed some desire to migrate were asked about INTENTION TO MIGRATE FOR MORE the time that they think will depart from Kosovo to migrate THAN SIX MONTHS abroad. Kosovo Albanians appear to have a strong intention to migrate in the near future – at least in 51 per cent of the cases. 47 per cent of young Kosovo Albanians have a moderate to very Kosovo Serbs mainly have a desire to migrate, but in 55 per cent strong intention to leave Kosovo. At the same time, around 53 of cases are not sure about when they will migrate. We tested per cent of Kosovo Serbs respond in the same way. There is no several indicators in order to determine any statistical significance difference between age groups or levels of education with re- with the desire to migrate as soon as possible and found some gard to the intention to migrate. There is no difference even in correlations. The age of young people shows a strong correlation, those cases in which young people are members of families with as the older they become, the sooner they want to migrate abroad different levels of economic standing. Only one statistically signif- (Spearman’s rho=-.354, p<0.001). At the same time, young males icant correlation was identified between this variable and the want to migrate faster, exhibiting the same tendency as young respondents’ gender, as males have a stronger tendency to mi- people living in rural areas (Spearman’s rho=-.136, p=0.003). grate (Spearman’s rho=.062, p=0.041). As expected, those per- Regarding plans with respect to the length of stay in the coun- sons who strongly want to migrate correlate with those who try of destination in the event of migration, there are once again want to migrate as soon as possible (Spearman’s rho=-.263, widely differing results between Kosovo Albanians and Kosovo p<0.001) and those who want to stay longer in the country of Serbs. Nearly 40 per cent of Kosovo Albanians want to migrate destination (Spearman’s rho=.304, p<0.001).

FIGURE 70: Length of planned stay in the destination country FIGURE 69: Time of leaving Kosovo for those who 21 plan to migrate Less than a year 8

26 Within the 18 next 6 months 2 One to fve years 7

25 Within the 6 next two years 14 Five to ten years 3

17 Within the 3 next five years 13 Ten to twenty years 9

6 Within the 3 next 10 years 3 More than twenty years 4

More than 1 10 years from 35 now 1 Foor good 11

23 Don´t know 14 55 Don´t know 8 50

2 No answer 1 12 No answer 8

0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 %

K-Albanians (N=553) K-Albanians (N=553)

K-Serbs (N=127) K-Serbs (N=127) 70 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 71: Reasons to migrate comparing 2012 to 2018 FIGURE 72: Where would you prefer to move to?

Improvement of 37 the standard of living 33 48 Switzerland 25

Better education 20 16 18 Germany 24

Better employment 5 possibilities 0 France 15 8

Higher salaries 0 18 USA 5 8

Experiencing a 22 different culture 0 Austria 5 6

Being close to people 7 I care for 0 Sweden 4 5

Social and political 0 stability in the host … 14 1 Great Britain 4

Higher cultural diversity 0 0 1 Norway 3

Better opportunities for 3 starting my own … 3 1 Italy 2

Escape from 4 unfavorable situation 7 1 Other 5

0% 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 %

Wave 1 – 2012 (N=548) 3 Don´t know Wave 2 – 2018 (N=573) 3

0 No answer for a medium period of less than five years. On the other hand, 5 close to 35 per cent want to migrate for good. Around half of Wave 1 – 2012 Kosovo Serbs are not sure about the period of time for their prob- 0% 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % Wave 2 – 2018 able migration. Young people living in rural areas have a stronger desire to migrate for longer periods (Spearman’s rho=-.165, p<0.001), and not taken any steps in that direction. Nearly 20 per cent of them the older the young people wishing to migrate are, the longer have contacted friends/relatives in order to obtain help from they want to stay abroad (Spearman’s rho=.177, p<0.001). them to move abroad. We made a comparison about the reasons for migrating between 2012 and 2018. It is obvious that in 2018 young people in Kosovo are driven to migrate more for econom- REASONS TO MIGRATE ic reasons. Having a better standard of living abroad stands out as the main reason in 48 % of the cases. Moreover, finding better Respondents were asked what they had done so far in order to employment opportunities has become the third main reason to prepare to leave the country and their reasons for migrating. 69 migrate. Combining these two reasons, we have devised a com- per cent of those who want to migrate state that they have done posite “economic reasons” indicator, which was selected by nothing to this end. They just have a desire to migrate, but have around 63 per cent of all those who want to leave Kosovo for Aspirations to Migrate 71

In the countries mentioned above, the existence of relatively FIGURE 73: What is your level of proficiency of the large Kosovar diaspora communities should be noted. The sizes official language of the host-country? (N=573) of these communities roughly mirror the percentages of answers given by the young people of Kosovo.

PROFICIENCY IN THE LANGUAGE OF THE COUNTRY OF DESTINATION

Only 24 per cent of young people from Kosovo who are willing to migrate have a good working knowledge of the language of their planned country of destination. This figure shows that young people do not prepare themselves in advance for future migration, or that they merely have a desire to migrate, without having taken further steps to start the migration process. On the other hand, around 87 per cent of young Kosovars are willing to learn the language of the countries of destination. There are some statistically significant correlations between the level of knowledge of the country of destination’s language and other Not proficient at all: 41 % Don‘t know: 4 % variables. The wealth index score is correlated positively, which Basic communication skills: 30 % No answer: 1 % means that those who can be considered “richer” have greater Good command / good working knowledge: 16 % chances of knowing the country of destination’s language (Spear- Excellent command / highly proficient in spoken man’s rho=.210, p<0.001). On the other hand, those individuals and written language: 8 % who plan to move in the near future have greater knowledge of the country of destination’s language, indicating that these young people have been preparing for some time for the upcom- another country of destination. There are several statistically ing migration (Spearman’s rho=-.091, p=0.051). significant correlations between “economic reasons” for leaving Kosovo and other variables. The wealth index score is negatively correlated with it, which means that those individuals who CONTRIBUTION TO THE DEVELOP- can be considered “poor” are more willing to cite economic rea- MENT AND PROSPERITY OF THE sons for migration (Spearman’s rho=-.096, p=0.017). Moreover, COUNTRY OF DESTINATION those persons living in rural areas (Spearman’s rho=.099, p=0.014) and those who have completed higher levels of edu- Those individuals who want to migrate also display a greater de- cation once again state economic reasons as the main reasons sire to contribute to the development and prosperity of the coun- for migration. try of destination. In more than 90 per cent of cases, young people from Kosovo aspire to be good citizens abroad and to perform at a high level in their jobs. COUNTRIES PREFERRED A high level – 63 per cent – of young people from Kosovo would FOR MIGRATION accept jobs that are not desired by local populations. There are some statistically significant correlations between “accepting a Switzerland and Germany are the most preferred countries to mi- less-desired job” and other variables. Those individuals who would grate to for Kosovars, with these countries being stated as the accept less desirable jobs want to migrate mainly for “economic main preference for migration in 49 per cent of cases. The large reasons” (Spearman’s rho=.130, p=0.003). They also have a strong Kosovar diaspora in Switzerland and Germany mirrors the percent- desire to migrate (Spearman’s rho=.149, p=0.001) and want to ages in the answers stated by the respondents. On the other hand, migrate as soon as possible (Spearman’s rho=-.211, p<0.001). As there is a notable increase in preferences for France, Austria and one would expect, they are usually members of the “poorer” quin- Sweden, which were not among the main preferences six years tile of the wealth index (Spearman’s rho=-.129, p=0.003). ago. On the other hand, there has been a decline in preferences for the USA and Britain, with both these countries being assigned a high level of preference in 2012. Although only 23 per cent of Kosovars view themselves to be Europeans, Europe remains undis- putedly the favourite destination for purposes of migration. 72 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 74: Level of contribution in the destination country

By being a good / loyal citizen 2 94 3

By demonstrating high job performance 3 93 3 By sharing specific knowledge and skills 4 91 3 By contributing to the cultural and / or scientific development 8 83 8 By accepting a job that is less desired by the local population 22 63 12 3

% Yes Don´t know

No No answer

DISCUSSION ON MIGRATION Young people’s target countries remain Switzerland and Germa- ny, reflecting the influence of the large Kosovar diaspora in these The survey of migration attitudes among Kosovo youth has pro- two countries. A large number of young people from Kosovo duced some mixed results. On the one hand, the majority of would accept jobs that are not desired by the local population. young people in Kosovo are satisfied with their life in general, Apart from this, the motivation to migrate for educational rea- while a large share of respondents expect an improvement in sons remains fairly low, creating an imbalance between the their personal future in 10 years. desire to migrate and work in the country of destination and On the other hand, hopelessness when it comes to finding a the thirst for a better education abroad, which in and of itself can good job and improving their economic lot are some of the reasons offer better job opportunities in the country of destination. that prompt around 47 per cent of young Kosovo Albanians to have a moderate to very strong intention to migrate in the near future. Moreover, dissatisfaction with education, corruption, a low level of trust in institutions and other issues all give rise to resent- ment and displeasure, fuelling migration.

75 10

KOSOVO IDENTITY, EU AND NEIGHBOUR COUNTRIES

As discussed in the foregoing, trust of young people in Kosovo in —— Young people in Kosovo think that Albania and Kosovo are international institutions was very high. Kosovo foreign policy has cooperating to some extent, but not enough. Furthermore, been a very demanding area of tasks for the government of Koso- half of young Kosovars want Kosovo and Albania to merely vo, especially in its attempts to gain more recognition for its inde- have neighbourly relations as independent states, while one- pendence, and to take further steps in the direction of the EU. third of them want the two countries to be joined together. Despite delays in the visa-liberalisation process, there is a great —— Kosovo Albanians are split in their opinions with regard to degree of trust in the European Union and strong support for EU possible Serbian recognition of Kosovo. Half of Albanians membership. On the other hand, Kosovo and Albania have made think that Serbia will recognise Kosovo in the near or distant some attempts to intensify relations, while at the same time the future, while another quarter think that Serbia will never rec- dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia facilitated by the EU aims at ognise Kosovo. a normalisation of relations between Belgrade and Pristina.

NATIONAL IDENTITY KEY FINDINGS The survey indicated that the national and local identity of Koso- —— The survey indicated that the national and local identity of vo Albanians and Kosovo Turks is much stronger that the other Kosovo Albanians and Kosovo Turks is much stronger that the identities. Young Kosovo Serbs appear to merely display an aver- other identities. Young Kosovo Serbs appear to show only an age level of local “home-town” identity, while for the most part average level of local “home-town” identity, while for the rejecting Kosovar identity. Around 40 percent of Kosovo Albani- most part rejecting a Kosovar identity. ans see themselves completely as citizens of the world. As for —— Kosovo Albanians and Kosovo Turks support membership in European identity, only 23 per cent of Kosovo Albanians fully the EU in more than 83 % of cases. On the other hand, young consider themselves to be Europeans. Kosovo Serbs appear to be split in their opinions concerning There are very few indicators that have a significant correlation EU membership. with the perception of considering oneself to be a world citizen, —— There is great degree of optimism among youth in Kosovo or a European, although both statements have a strong correlation that their country will soon join the European Union. Less with each other (Spearman’s rho=.478, p<0.001). Males consider than half of respondents (43 %) believe this will be possible in themselves more often to be world citizens (Spearman’s rho=-.096, the next five years. p=0.001), while people living in rural areas have a slight preference 76 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 75: Level of identities of the different ethnic groups

78 As a Kosovar 8 84

75 As a citizen of my home town 49 90

64 As a citizen of my region 22 70

As a world citizen 15 38

23 As a European 21 K-Albanians 6 K-Serb

K-Turks 0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 % 50 % 60 % 70 % 80 % 90 % 100 %

to consider themselves to be Europeans (Spearman’s rho=.078, that have more trust in the European Union are more willing to p=0.010). Moreover, young people who are generally optimistic support EU membership (Spearman’s rho=-.229, p<0.001). More- about the future in 10 years are also more inclined to consider over, the more the younger generation is dissatisfied with the themselves to be world or European citizens. state of democracy in Kosovo, the more they push for EU membership (Spearman’s rho=-.142, p<0.001). Young people living in urban areas (Spearman’s rho=.106, p<0.001) and those who at- FOREIGN-POLICY ORIENTATION tend religious services more rarely (Spearman’s rho=-.100, p=0.001) are also slightly more supportive of EU membership. The following block of questions analyses foreign-policy orienta- In general, there is an 82 per cent approval rate for Kosovo tions among the young population in the Republic of Kosovo, joining the EU, a slight decrease from the 88 % figure produced primarily in connection with integration into the European Union by the same study in 2012. This is probably due to the fatigue and the relations with Serbia and Albania. process associated with the VISA Liberalisation Agreement and the process of integration into the EU, which seems to be taking much longer than expected. SHOULD KOSOVO JOIN THE Young people in Kosovo remain optimistic about the EU. Over- EUROPEAN UNION? all, there is considerable optimism among youth in Kosovo that their country will soon join the European Union. Less than half of Kosovo youth still strongly support joining the EU. When asked respondents (43 %) believe this will be possible in the next five whether Kosovo should join the EU, about 83 % of Kosovo Alba- years, and an additional 18 % predict that it will happen within nians answered “yes”, with only 5 per cent opposing it. Similar the next 10 years. A considerable change has taken place among approval is found even among Kosovo Turks. On the other hand, Kosovo Serbs with regard to this question. Six years ago K-Serbs Kosovo Serbs’ opinions break down into three similar answers. were almost totally against Kosovo joining the EU, while now they 33 per cent of them think that Kosovo should not join the EU, usually do not want to answer the question (54 % of responses). while 30 % of them approve of this move. Another 37 % do not Around 16 % of K-Serbs believe that Kosovo could join EU in less know how to respond to the question, or they did not answer it. than 10 years. Six years ago, the proportion of Kosovo Serbs who wanted Koso- vo to join EU was only one per cent. As expected, young people Kosovo identity, EU and neighbour countries 77

FIGURE 76: Do you think Kosovo should join the European Union?

K-Albanians (N=969) 5 83 11 1 K-Serbs (N=181) 33 30 30 7 K-Turks (N=50) 90 10

% Yes Don´t know

No No answer

FIGURE 77: When do you think Kosovo will join the European Union?

TOTAL W1 in 2012 (N=1.000) 50 28 9 4 3 6 W2 in 2018 (N= 1.000) 43 19 6 5 4 23

K-ALBANIANS W1 in 2012 (N=900) 53 29 9 3 1 5 W2 in 2018 (N= 969) 44 18 6 4 4 24

K-SERBS W1 in 2012 (N=130) 2 17 46 35

W2 in 2018 (N= 181) 9 7 4 10 15 54

Within the next 5 years We´ll need more than 20 years

Within the next 10 years Never

We´ll need more than 10 years DK / NA

FIGURE 78: Study with a scholarship in Albania

K-Albanians (N=969) 46 51 3 K-Serbs (N=181) 9 56 31 3 K-Turks (N=50) 30 68 2

% Yes Don´t know

No No answer

FIGURE 79: Work in Albania

K-Albanians (N=969) 34 61 4 K-Serbs (N=181) 7 57 34 3 K-Turks (N=50) 32 64 4

% Yes Don´t know

No No answer 78 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

RELATIONS WITH ALBANIA FIGURE 80: Do you think that overall Kosovo and Albania are cooperating enough? Less than half of young Kosovo Albanians would study in Al- bania if they received a scholarship. On the other hand, the number of Kosovo Serbs who would study in Albania is very low. One-third of Kosovo Albanians would prefer to work in Albania, exhibiting a lesser tendency compared to the preference for education. Focus-group discussions reveal that there are no major differences between the youth of Kosovo and Albania. Young people in Albania are seen as more educated in some areas and have more opportunities as a result of visa liberalisation. Participants had mixed opinions about the relationship between the two countries. Most of them, predominantly the older participants, agree that Kosovo and Albania should be one state because of the benefits this would offer in the political and economic spheres. “We are working to join the EU one day and together we are stronger. It isn’t about nationalism or patriotism, it is about better education and the economy. Both countries have a major Yes: 19% No: 21% interest in it.” (Prishtina, male, 29 years old). Younger participants To some extent: 49% Don‘t know: 11% are mostly opposed to a merger of the two countries, and few of them think that they should join to form a confederation. “I don’t think that it is a good idea for both countries to merge. FIGURE 81: According to your opinion, what kind of Maybe we should be like the USA: different states with the same formal relations should Kosovo and Albania have? constitution.” (Prizren, female, 21 years old) Occasionally the governments of Kosovo and Albania organ- ise joint meetings in order to foster cooperation. The meetings have produced many accords and agreements, but many stake- holders still complain that this cooperation on paper is not always put into practice. Even young people in Kosovo assert that Koso- vo and Albania have some sort of partial cooperation in half of their responses. Young people living in urban areas are more inclined to answer that Kosovo and Albania are not cooperating enough (Spearman’s rho=-.063 p=0.037). Half of young Kosovars want Kosovo and Albania to have just neighbourly relations as independent states, while one-third of them want Albania and Kosovo to join together. The youngest age cohort are more in favour of their two countries joining in comparison to other age cohorts (Spearman’s rho=-.064 p=0.035). Moreover, those who are members of families which are not economically well off are more favourable towards the two countries joining together (Spearman’s rho=- Neighborly relations between two DK / NA: 10% independent states: 51% .080 p=0.008). Those who consider themselves to be more reli- Become a federal state: 7% Kosovo should join Albania: 32% gious are more in support of the idea of a national union between Albania and Kosovo (Spearman’s rho=.065 p=0.032). Kosovo identity, EU and neighbour countries 79

FIGURE 82: When will Serbia recognize Kosovo?

K-Albanians (N=969) 22 15 8 5 28 23

K-Serbs (N=181) 3 2 7 30 35 22 K-Turks (N=50) 22 6 4 4 64

% Within the next 5 years Never

Within the next 10 years Don´t know

We´ll need more than 10 years No answer

We´ll need more than 20 years

FIGURE 83: Do you buy Serbian products FIGURE 84: Do you buy Kosovar products in the supermarket? in the supermarket?

N=969 N=181

Yes: 53 % Don‘t know: 9 % Yes: 43 % Don‘t know: 17 %

No: 35 % No answer: 2 % No: 25 % No answer: 15 %

RELATIONS WITH SERBIA one-third of them do not know how to answer or they did not provide any answer. The main issue between Kosovo and Serbia remains recognition The number of Kosovo Albanians in the study is large enough of Kosovo as an independent state. Opinions of Kosovo Albani- to have significant statistical correlations. The lower the age of ans are split into four perspectives on this issue. Less than young people, the more inclined they are to refuse to buy Serbian one-quarter of Kosovo Albanians believe that Serbia will recog- products (Spearman’s rho=-.085 p=0.009). Young people who nise Kosovo within the next 5 years. Another one-fourth of them are more optimistic about the economic future of Kosovo are more hope that Serbia will recognise Kosovo in the distant future. The reluctant to buy Serbian products (Spearman’s rho=.147 p<0.001). third quarter does not believe that Serbia will ever recognise Kosovo, while the last quarter has no firm opinion on this issue. Less than half of young Kosovo Serbians choose to answer this question. 14 % of them accept the possibility that Serbia could recognise Kosovo in the future, while 30 % of respondents never expect this to happen. More than half of young Kosovo Albanians buy Serbian goods in the supermarket. Somewhat than more than one-third state that they practice “consumer activism”, which means the expression of a political position by boycotting goods originating in Ser- bia. Similar responses are even given by Kosovo Serbs, although 80 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FIGURE 85: Opinion on language learning between different ethnic groups

K-Albanians (N=969) 21 22 6 37 11 3 K-Serbs (N=181) 29 2 48 16 5

Learning the mutual language should be a compulsory subject for both communities No need to learn the mutual language

Learning the Albanian language should be compulsory for serbian students Don´t know

Learning the Serbian language should be compulsory for albanian students No answer

LEARNING THE LANGUAGE Focus-group participants generally would like Serbians who live OF THE OTHER GROUP in Kosovo to integrate and believe that they should at least speak Albanian. “I don’t like the fact that they don’t speak Albanian. In More than one-third of young Albanians and almost half of every country you have to know the official language if you live young Serbians are convinced that there is no need to learn the there.” (Prizren, male, 29 years old). other language. On the other hand, 29 % of young Serbians agree that learning the common language should be compulsory for both communities. Moreover, 21 % of young Albanians think the same.

83 11

CONCLUSIONS

The study was based on a representative sample of 1000 re- other hand, greater trust is placed in religious institutions and spondents, with the addition of a sample booster of 200 re- international organisations like NATO and the OSCE. spondents in order to have a more representative sample of The findings of the study indicate that young people in Koso- Serbian and Turkish minorities in Kosovo. The respondents fall vo are very dependent on their families. The typical profile of a under the 14 – 29 age category from all over Kosovo. The SPSS young person in Kosovo is someone who does not work in the Statistics software package was used to perform inferential field that he/she has been trained for and who has a strong desire data analysis. to work in the public sector. Moreover, the typical young Kosovar The study explored the nature of young people who represent knows that only political connections or family networks can help the “independence generation”. Young people in Kosovo are find a job. Young Kosovars do not trust Kosovo institutions, and very optimistic about their future and the future of Kosovo, but exhibit a low level of political engagement. They are generally are also very pessimistic about the actual situation with regard dissatisfied with education in Kosovo, but want to get a universi- to education, the employment market, political situation, etc. ty degree. Moreover, the average person has a moderate desire Usually they express a conservative attitude that places the in- to migrate to the EU, although they still do not know the language stitution of the family at the heart of everything. of the country they want to migrate to. On the other hand, this The family constitutes the most important institution for typical young person is very optimistic about his/her future in young people with regard to almost all aspects of life, as almost Kosovo and about the future of Kosovo in general. Our average all respondents believe that a person needs a family in order to young person is generally religious, but very intolerant towards have a better life. The family offers a stability that no friends, job, homosexuals. The main purpose in their life is to make their parents or political situation can provide. On the other hand, there has proud and to have a good marriage. They would be inclined to been a significant increase in the preferred age of marriage for ask their parents for their input when the most important decisions men in the last six years in the views of both males and females. in life come up. The preferred age of marriage for males is 28 – 29, The labour market is less secure, and young people in Kosovo while for females it is 25 – 26. The typical young person in Kosovo are not able to find jobs that use and improve the skills that they would like to have three or more children, whereby he/she wants have acquired in the educational system. There is a great need for to have their first child after the age of 25. labour and educational flexibility to reduce the skill gaps of young people at present. Those who are more concerned about job security have a greater desire to work in the public sector and are less satisfied with the quality of education in Kosovo. Results show that young people want to migrate for economic reasons. Kosovo should create the economic foundations that would enable youth to try their luck in Kosovo. Moreover, this would help youth move away from their parents and search for opportunities outside the parental home. Distrust and apathy among Kosovo youth have reached record levels with regard to all political institutions, especially with respect to political parties and the national government. On the 84 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

FOOTNOTES REFERENCES

[ 1 ] Calculated from “http://www.institutigap.org/spendingsEng/#/~/budget-of- Cojocaru, A. (2017). Jobs Diagnostic Kosovo. World Bank Group. kosovo---planning/education-and-science” European Commission. (2018). Progress Toward Meeting the Economic Criteria [ 2 ] https://eacea.ec.europa.eu/sites/eacea-site/files/countryfiche_kosovo_2017_0.pdf for EU Accession. European Commission. [ 3 ] Lavric, “Youth in Education Across South East Europe.” Lost in Transition?. GoK. (2016). Kosovo Education Strategic Plan 2017 – 2021. Government of Kosovo. [ 4 ] http://www.ks.undp.org/content/kosovo/en/home/countryinfo/ GoK. (2018). Kosovo Economic Reform Programme (ERP) 2018 – 2020. Govern- [ 5 ] Progress toward Meeting the Economic Criteria for EU Accession (European ment of Kosovo. Commission, 2018). WB & WIIW. (2017). Western Balkans Labor Market Trends 2017. World Bank [ 6 ] The term is coined in Lost in Democratic Transition? Political Challenges and Group and WIIW. Perspectives for Young People in South East Europe (2015). [ 7 ] The study’s findings show that only 13.1 per cent of youth in Kosovo are mainly interested in political events that take place in Kosovo (6 per cent are very interested, 7 per cent interested). [ 8 ] https://www.esiweb.org/index.php?id=444&lang=en APPENDIX 85

TABLE OF FIGURES

14 FIGURE 1: 40 FIGURE 32: Most important values of young people in Kosovo How satisfied are you generally with the quality of education 14 FIGURE 2: in your country? Satisfaction of young people in Kosovo 40 FIGURE 33: 15 FIGURE 3: Satisfaction with the quality of education Percentage of young people declaring very high satisfaction 41 FIGURE 34: with their life Do you agree that there are cases where grades and exams 15 FIGURE 4: are bought in institutes / universities in Kosovo? How do you see your personal future in 10 years? 41 FIGURE 35: 16 FIGURE 5: How many hours on average do you spend studying The opinion of young people about the future of Kosovo (after classes / at home) per day? 16 FIGURE 6: 42 FIGURE 36: Concerns of young people in Kosovo Student’s levels of stress in 2012 (wave 1) and 2018 (wave 2) 17 FIGURE 7: 42 FIGURE 37: Behavior that can be justified or not Participation in internships 17 FIGURE 8: 42 FIGURE 38: To what degree do you trust the following people? Difficulty in finding a job 18 FIGURE 9: 46 FIGURE 39: How would you feel, if the following persons moved into your Unemployment rates (15-29), % of labor force neighborhood? 46 FIGURE 40: 18 FIGURE 10: Employment or education engagement of the youth Religiosity of main ethnic groups 47 FIGURE 41: 19 FIGURE 11: Important factors to find a job How often do you attend religious services? 47 FIGURE 42: (apart from weddings and funerals) Young people working or not in their profession 19 FIGURE 12: 48 FIGURE 43: Young people religious practice/attendance frequency Formal education requirements of young people´s job according to different parents religiousness 48 FIGURE 44: 22 FIGURE 13: Working in public sector: reality and preference Activities in the leisure time 49 FIGURE 45: 24 FIGURE 14: Choice of work preferable sector Internet access 49 FIGURE 46: 24 FIGURE 15: Main factors for choosing a job Main reasons for using internet 54 FIGURE 47: 24 FIGURE 16: Interest in political events Satisfaction with own physical appearance 54 FIGURE 48: 25 FIGURE 17: Interest in politics comparing 2012 to 2018 Do you smoke? 55 FIGURE 49: 25 FIGURE 18: Disinterest in politics for different ethnic groups Do you drink alcohol? (N=1.000) (showing only those who are “not interested at all” and 26 FIGURE 19: “not interested”) Drinking alcohol acceptance levels 56 FIGURE 50: 27 FIGURE 20: Level of discussion of politics with family or Sexual experience acquaintances 27 FIGURE 21: 56 FIGURE 51: Contraceptives use behavior Political views alignment compared to respective parents 27 FIGURE 22: 57 FIGURE 52: Opinion about virginity of young people in Kosovo Young people’s interests represented in national politics 32 FIGURE 23: 57 FIGURE 53: How many persons live in your household, including you? Main sources of information on politics 32 FIGURE 24: 58 FIGURE 54: Young people living preferences Voting in last elections 33 FIGURE 25: 58 FIGURE 55: Which of the following statements best decribes your relati- Voting if elections were held today onship with your parents? 58 FIGURE 56: 33 FIGURE 26: Attitude toward different policies Would you raise your children like 59 FIGURE 57: your parents raised you, or differently? Acceptance of different national and international institutions 34 FIGURE 27: 60 FIGURE 58: Who, among your family members or acquaintances, has Satisfaction with the state of democracy most influence on your important decisions 60 FIGURE 59: 34 FIGURE 28: Agreement with specific political opinions Which of the following statements best decribes your 61 FIGURE 60: situation? Engagement in different forms of activism 34 FIGURE 29: 62 FIGURE 61: Family plans Preferable objectives for the national government according 35 FIGURE 30: to different ethnic groups How many children do you plan or imagine to have? 63 FIGURE 62: 36 FIGURE 31: Future expectations for the economic situation in Kosovo Most important factors to choose the spouse 86 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019

63 FIGURE 63: Shown Not enough rights only TABLE OF TABLES 64 FIGURE 64: Most important values 10 TABLE 1: Age and gender distribution before and after the 64 FIGURE 65: weighting Trust in institutions 10 TABLE 2: Focus groups distribution 65 FIGURE 66: 23 TABLE 3: Correlation between activities conducted during Differences in trust of institutions between two ethnic groups leisure time 35 TABLE 4: Adequate age for marriage 68 FIGURE 67: Intention to study abroad 68 FIGURE 68: Intention to migrate for more than six months 69 FIGURE 69: Time of leaving Kosovo for those who plan to migrate 69 FIGURE 70: Length of planned stay in the destination country 70 FIGURE 71: Reasons to migrate comparing 2012 to 2018 70 FIGURE 72: Where would you prefer to move to? 71 FIGURE 73: What is your level of proficiency of the official language of the host-country? (N=573) 72 FIGURE 74: Level of contribution in the destination country 76 FIGURE 75: Level of identities of the different ethnic groups 77 FIGURE 76: Do you think Kosovo should join the European Union? 77 FIGURE 78: Study with a scholarship in Albania 77 FIGURE 77: When do you think Kosovo will join the European Union? 77 FIGURE 79: Work in Albania 78 FIGURE 80: Do you think that overall Kosovo and Albania are cooperating enough? 78 FIGURE 81: According to your opinion, what kind of formal relations should Kosovo and Albania have? 79 FIGURE 82: When will Serbia recognize Kosovo? 79 FIGURE 83: Do you buy Serbian products in the supermarket? 79 FIGURE 84: Do you buy Kosovar products in the supermarket? 80 FIGURE 85: Opinion on language learning between different ethnic groups 87

IMPRINT publisher: Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung e. V. Referat Mittel- und Osteuropa Hiroshimastr. 28 • 10785 Berlin www.fes.de/referat-mittel-und-osteuropa/ www.fes.de/youth-studies/ responsible: Matthias Jobelius, Frank Hantke project coordinator: Mevlyde Hyseni contact: Martin Güttler • [email protected] editors: Oltion Rrumbullaku language editing: James Turner design: Andrea Schmidt • Typografie/im/Kontext printed by: bub Bonner Universitäts-Buchdruckerei isbn: 978-3-96250-274-4 date: 2019

The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES), or of the organisation for which the authors work. The FES cannot guarantee the accuracy of all information and data provided in this publication. Commercial use of any media published by the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung is not permitted without the written consent of the FES. Any reference made to Kosovo is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244/1999 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo Declaration of Inde- pendence. Any reference made to Macedonia is understood to refer to the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. 88 YOUTH STUDY KOSOVO 2018/2019