Defending Democracy in the 21st Century: Lessons from Europe’s Youngest Republic
Defending Democracy in the 21st Century: Lessons from Europe’s Youngest Republic
By Andrra Kelmendi
“Do not accept democracy as a story that has already been told – it is a manuscript that still needs your hands on every page.” – Dr. Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu
These words opened the powerful lecture delivered by Dr. Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu, President of the Republic of Kosovo, at Humboldt University in Berlin. Her speech, “Defending Democracy in the 21st Century – Lessons from Europe’s Youngest State,” was both inspiring and deeply thought-provoking, offering insights not only about Kosovo’s journey but about Europe’s shared democratic responsibilities.
As a Young European Ambassador in the Western Balkans, studying Psychology at Humboldt University, I had the honor to attend this lecture and witness firsthand her reflections on freedom, justice, and European unity.
Democracy is an investment, not a luxury
President Osmani began by grounding her audience in Kosovo’s unique history: “I come from Kosovo, the youngest Republic, but a place where the struggle for freedom carries the weight of centuries.” Her words emphasized that democracy is never automatic; it is the result of centuries of struggle and commitment. She reminded us that defending democracy is not a cost to be measured in resources or convenience: “Defending democracy isn’t an expense, it is an investment.”
She also delivered a powerful message to Europe: “A Europe that remains incomplete weakens itself.” Her argument was clear: integrating the Western Balkans into the European Union is not charity, it is a strategic investment in Europe’s own peace and security.
Three lessons from Kosovo
President Osmani outlined three lessons that Kosovo offers Europe and the world:
- Freedom must never be taken for granted: Freedom requires vigilance and responsibility. It is not a permanent state but a daily commitment, passed from one generation to the next.
- There can never be peace without justice: Peace begins where justice is allowed to speak. True reconciliation and lasting peace depend on fairness, accountability, and protection of rights.
- Europe’s future is brighter when we stand together: Europe grows stronger when unity prevails over division. By investing in enlargement and inclusion, the EU secures both prosperity and stability.
A message to Europe’s youth
President Osmani spoke directly to students, emphasizing the active role of young Europeans: “Your generation carries a double responsibility. You must defend the institutions you inherit, but also improve them. Do not accept democracy as a story that has already been told, it is a manuscript that still needs your hands on every page.” Her words reminded us that democracy is not a static achievement. Every citizen, especially the youth, has a role in shaping its ongoing story.
The role of the Western Balkans diaspora
During the Q&A session, I had the honor to ask what the diaspora in Europe could contribute to supporting our home countries. President Osmani’s response was both encouraging and motivating. She highlighted that diaspora communities already contribute significantly through investments and engagement. Yet she emphasized an even deeper role: “Cooperate with the young people in Kosovo while prospering in Germany, but share the strength there.” Her message was clear: our responsibility goes beyond financial support, it involves building bridges, sharing knowledge, and empowering the next generation at home.
A personal encounter
Following the lecture, I had the unique opportunity, through an invitation by the Embassy of Kosovo, to attend a meeting with President Osmani. In this intimate setting, she connected personally with members of the diaspora, emphasizing dialogue, collaboration, and shared responsibility. It was a reminder that democracy is not only defended in institutions but nurtured through relationships, trust, and mutual support.
Conclusion
Dr. Osmani’s lecture was a vivid reminder that democracy, freedom, and peace are active responsibilities. Kosovo’s journey teaches that courage, justice, and unity are essential for a thriving Europe. As young Europeans and members of the diaspora, we carry the tools to write the next chapters of this ongoing manuscript, investing in both our home countries and a stronger, united Europe.
As President Osmani said, defending democracy is not a burden, it is an investment. And through engagement, dialogue, and action, each one of us can ensure that Europe remains complete, strong, and resilient.
