IOM in Kosovo* has launched a set of language courses for court translators and interpreters, which sets out to support community stabilization and social development.

VocUp and other initiatives will contribute to enable equal access to services and information, At the launch, IOM Chief of Mission Ana Rostocka noted that language is pivotal in the areas of human rights protection, government, peace building and reconciliation.

“Language issues have been flagged as one of the major obstacles to effectively addressing common concerns and building joint solutions”, she stated.

“They are the principal obstacle that not only hinder communication and reconciliation, but also negatively affect the enjoyment of fundamental rights by all residents and are one of the principal barriers for full access to services and information including access to justice.”

Developed in 2018, the VocUp online language learning platform has over 50,000 unique users, ranking as the most visited educational website in Kosovo.

“It has been very well received so far with over 50,000 unique users, and 1600 participants that have been taking courses across Kosovo”, said Edward Lister, Head of External Politics and Reconciliation, from the British Embassy in Pristina. 

Representatives from the Judicial System in Kosovo have also welcomed this initiative considering it a measurable improvement in ensuring quality translation inside courtrooms.

For more information please contact Luljeta Kuraja at lkuraja@iom.int

* All references to Kosovo should be understood to be in the context of UN Security Council resolution 1244 (1999).

City of Dispatch: Pristina