I am hugely looking forward to the trip as it quickly approaches. I am a little nervous, but that’s to be expected when I know I will be doing something totally new, do a lot of on the fly problem solving, and adjusting to a new place and people. Research about Kosovo and the surrounding areas has done a lot to bring clarity to understanding about the young country.
I imagine a very young population with a ton of potential, that has only just scratched the surface of reaching fruition. I feel as that the people of Kosovo have all this movement, ambition, and energy, but do not always have an appropriate outlet for their progressive qualities. With over 50% of the population under 30, and extremely high unemployment rates, I’d imagine that the people have this sort of youthful energy, but do not have all the opportunities to fully utilize it. I feel that the people of Kosovo are desperately trying to push forward as a country, but are held back by the past, and current limitation in many different ways.
I also imagine that for those who find the correct outlet for their creativity, and talents, that they do what they do really well, and have a big impact on the culture in Kosovo. Those such as
Alketa Xhafa-Mripa, who uses her art to bring attention to war crimes, and the entrepreneurs who pursue their passions in brewing beer regardless of conservative religious traditions, and even the A.U.K for pushing quality education to prepare Kosovars for a national and international presence in the world. I think Kosovo has a lot to offer, and a lot of great qualities to build upon.
A fear I have for Kosovo, not one that I feel threatened by personally, is that I’m afraid the poverty in Kosovo will push the young people to except invitations to destructive organizations as an outlet for their “energy”, for lack of a better word. I hope that young Kosovars do not give in to radicalization as an alternative to the poverty and bleak future prospects that many people may be faced with there. I know it has been a little exaggerated(NYT), and the reasons for this “phenomenon” are extremely complex, but to me, for any amount of Kosovars to make such a destructive choice is a tragedy.
Last thought: I have discovered I really like the research stage of big projects like this. I’ve had a great time researching Kosovo and looking for different story ideas, and I really look forward to putting all the reading to practice in a few days!
(Photo of my usual work station, doing research at my favorite coffee shop back home –Which reminds me: I am extremely excited to explore all the coffee shops and cafés in Prishtina!)
-Daniel