Dr. Edita Tahiri is a prominent figure in Kosovo’s history, renowned for her leadership during the country’s independence movement. As a former Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Peace Negotiator, she has played a pivotal role in shaping Kosovo’s trajectory towards stability and international recognition.
Her extensive experience spans across various key roles, including Minister of Dialogue and Public Administration, along with being a Member of Parliament for five terms. Dr. Tahiri’s dedication to the independence movement has earned her recognition as a key founder and leader in Kosovo’s quest for self-determination.
With a remarkable career spanning over three decades, Dr. Tahiri has honed her expertise in foreign policy and security, international relations, conflict resolution, and international peace negotiations. She is notably recognized as the only female peace negotiator in the Balkans, having participated in significant international peace processes such as the Rambouillet International Peace Conference on Kosovo in 1999.
As the Chief Negotiator in EU-mediated talks between Kosovo and Serbia from 2011 to 2017, Dr. Tahiri played a crucial role in reaching historic agreements aimed at normalizing relations between the two nations.
Her efforts culminated in the first-ever agreement signed between Kosovo and Serbia after two decades of peace talks.
Beyond her diplomatic endeavors, Dr. Tahiri is dedicated to women’s empowerment and the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda. She has served as the Chair of the Regional Women’s Lobby in South East Europe for the past 14 years, advocating for gender equality and inclusive peace processes.
Dr. Tahiri’s academic achievements are equally impressive, holding a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government, with a focus on international relations. She also holds a doctoral degree in political sciences from Prishtina University, in cooperation with SAIS Johns Hopkins University, specializing in international statebuilding in Kosovo
Her expertise extends geographically across Europe, Asia, and various conflict-affected regions, making her a respected authority in foreign policy, conflict resolution, and post-conflict transitions. Dr. Edita Tahiri’s dedication to peacebuilding and her significant contributions to Kosovo’s development continue to inspire positive change and progress in the region and beyond.