Why KOSOVo?

Kosovo is a small, landlocked country in the heart of the Balkans. Once part of Yugoslavia, it declared independence in 2008, making it Europe’s newest nation. It shares borders with Montenegro, Serbia, North Macedonia, and Albania. The majority of the population is Albanian, alongside smaller communities of Turks, Bosnians, and Serbs.

Kosovo’s history is rich, complex, and often marked by struggle. For centuries it was ruled by the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires before becoming part of Yugoslavia in the 20th century. In the 1990s, tensions rose as the majority-Albanian population sought greater freedom. The conflict escalated in 1998–1999 until international intervention led to the path toward independence.

Today, Kosovo is a young nation still finding its footing. Many people are rebuilding their lives and looking for hope, healing, and community. With a majority Muslim population and a vibrant generation of young people, it is a place where the love of Jesus can shine brightly.

OUR FOCUS IN KOSOVO

For nearly twenty years, our work in Kosovo focused on supporting Humedica—a German aid organization—in running a small daycare in the village of Krushë e Vogël, just outside the city of Prizren. Prizren, located in southern Kosovo, is home to about 150,000 people, while Krushë e Vogël is a village of roughly 900.

This village endured deep tragedy and loss during the war, and the daycare became a place of healing and hope for local children. Today, it continues to thrive under the leadership of Alban and Jehona Bytyqi with the support of New City.

In 2022, we launched a church campus in Krushë e Vogël and have since expanded ministry into Prizren, reaching young adults and families with the hope of the gospel and building meaningful relationships in both communities. While Islam is the official religion of Kosovo, only a small percentage actively practice their faith—leaving many open and searching for something more.