Development of contemporary sport ecosystem in Kosovo

This paper presents the contemporary development of the sport ecosystem in Kosovo. Despite having neither de jure recognition nor a chair in the UN, Kosovo managed to ensure a seat at global sport forums and secured podium spots at major sport events. Although heavily supported by Western countries and institutions, the internal challenges of Kosovo remain complex, particularly in terms of creating inclusive environments and public policies. This paper is structured around key policy features and structures of Kosovo’s sport ecosystem and presents the role of the primary public and non-governmental actors. After its declaration of independence in 2008, the political support and institutions that are necessary to formulate a strategic direction and develop public policies for sport have been limited, with a centralised concentration of power within the public sector. Additionally, the current organisational structure of sport lacks a clear autonomy, which creates challenges for the implementation of sport policies in the future. An analysis of documents confirms that the use of an evidence-based approach and the development and implementation of policies has been inconsistent.