July 12, 2025 

Cultural Event / Film Screening & Panel Discussions

'BURRNESHAT – BETWEEN TRADITION AND SELF"

(Kaçanik)

 

With the support of the Embassy of Switzerland in Kosovo (Schweizerische Eidgenossenschaft) and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), the organization Art Without Limit, in cooperation with the Art Without Limit International Film Festival (AWLIFF), held a cultural event at the premises of Handikos in the city of Kaçanik, under the theme “Burrneshat – Between Tradition and Self.”

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The event was opened by the Executive Director of Art Without Limit, Mrs. Ganimete Sava, who welcomed all attendees and then invited Ms. Elmihane Krasniqi Malisu, Director of Handikos in Kaçanik, to address the guests and express her pleasure that this activity was being held at the Handikos premises, which she had made available for the occasion.

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Following this, Ms. Ganimete Sava introduced the documentary film “I am Burrnesha,” directed by Radiana Bozhikova from Bulgaria, which explores the phenomenon of the burrneshat (sworn virgins) from northern Albania, the local traditions, and the challenges faced by women in these communities. The film stirred special emotions and reflections on the relationship between cultural heritage and the right to personal choice.

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After the screening, Ms. Sava invited the panelists to the stage and moderated a discussion on the theme “Between Tradition and Self.” The discussion included women from various spheres of life in Kaçanik, representatives of organizations of persons with disabilities, activists, and homemakers. They shared their personal experiences, thoughts, and ideas on women’s empowerment, the importance of education, and the need to create equal opportunities for all women and girls, regardless of the challenges posed by tradition or social conditions.

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Among the panelists were:

• Zarie Malsiu, activist and representative of the organization “Gryka e Kaçanikut”

• Dituri Neziraj, renowned playwright and university professor

• Fatlume Guri Selimi, senior information officer at the Municipality of Kaçanik

• Lumnije Zharku, member of Handikos (a person with disabilities)

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The event concluded with a small reception, where traditional dishes prepared by women from the surrounding areas of Kaçanik and Ferizaj were served, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere for conversation, idea exchange, and networking among participants.

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Embassy of Switzerland in Kosovo