In-depth

Climate change is contributing to the increase in disease cases in Kosovo

Climate change poses a significant threat to human health, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as children, women, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses. In Kosovo, the National Institute of Public Health (IKShPK) confirms that these changes exacerbate health conditions, especially for patients suffering from respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Research indicates that climate change negatively impacts women’s reproductive health. Meteorology experts explain the reasons behind these changes, while institutions have done little to address this issue.

Reports frequently highlight that the global average temperature is rising at an unprecedented rate in modern history, leading to glacier melting, sudden floods, and devastating droughts. These changes, driven by climate change, have multifaceted consequences, threatening not only the planet and the environment but also our health. Media outlets often report an increase in individuals affected by various respiratory, heart, and other diseases. Various studies, environmental experts, and health professionals assert that climate change significantly influences these illnesses.

Climate change refers to long-term alterations in weather patterns and temperatures on Earth, primarily caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation. Numerous studies indicate that these activities increase greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, causing the planet to warm. Consequently, the effects include floods, droughts, more powerful storms, and ecosystem changes that impact our health, economy, and nature.

Inevitably, climate change has also had negative impacts in Kosovo. A study conducted by the National Institute of Public Health of Kosovo (IKShPK) during 2018-2022 confirms this. According to this research, climate change affects health by worsening conditions in patients with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The most frequent causes of death in the over-65 age group are respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Among non-communicable diseases for the period 2015-2021, leading conditions include hypertension (46.5%), non-insulin-dependent diabetes (36.9%), insulin-dependent diabetes (6.35%), and schizophrenia (2.95%).

The institute also reports that climate change contributes to an increase in allergy cases and mental health disorders, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly, individuals with chronic diseases, pregnant women, and children.

Children Face the Highest Risk

Alarmingly, in recent years, the direct health consequences of climate change have become evident in the health of children in Kosovo.

Vlora Nimani, a pediatrician in the pediatric emergency department at the University Clinical Center of Kosovo (QKUK), notes that during the past summer, there was an increase in the number of children affected by heat who sought medical assistance at QKUK.

She states that heatwaves are becoming more frequent and dangerous, potentially causing heatstroke and dehydration, especially in children who are more sensitive to temperature changes.

“They can cause temporary or even permanent damage to children’s bodies, increasing the risk of problems with vital organs such as the heart and kidneys,” emphasizes Dr. Nimani.

She explains that there are several ways in which climate change contributes to the rise in disease cases.

“Young children are more at risk from the impacts of climate change for several reasons. Their immune and physical systems are not fully developed, making them more susceptible to infections and environmental stress,” says Nimani.

The doctor clarifies that the most common diseases can be infectious in nature, respiratory illnesses such as asthma linked to air pollution, inadequate nutrition, and poor hygiene conditions, which can also be the basis for the emergence of many diseases in children.

“Children spend more time outdoors and are more exposed to pollution and heat conditions. Children living in poor conditions with limited access to healthcare services, healthy food, and clean water are also more at risk,” explains pediatrician Nimani.

She calls for state and societal mobilization to ensure a safe and healthy environment for Kosovo’s citizens.

Rise in Viral Infections Among Children

Environmental consequences of climate change impact children’s immunity, especially in younger age groups. Paulina Nushi-Muhaxhiri, a journalist and mother of two, shares that during routine conversations with other mothers, a common concern is that “children are experiencing more respiratory issues or lung problems like bronchitis than ever before.”

She believes that poor air quality, the lack of continuous natural air purification processes like snowfall in winter, fluctuating temperatures, and children’s constant exposure to this situation are having negative effects.

Nushi-Muhaxhiri notes that her own children have not experienced health issues due to climate change, aside from common viral infections.

“But in contact with many mothers, the concern is that children are experiencing more respiratory issues or lung problems like bronchitis or, in more severe cases, pneumonia than ever before,” she says.

She emphasizes the need for discussions about climate change within families, schools, media, and society in general, as well as for state institutions to undertake informative campaigns and develop policies aimed at improving the situation in this regard.

“We had a tragic event in the city of Peja, where a mother and her child lost their lives due to floods that occurred there. Also, last year, Europe recorded record rainfall that caused floods in Italy, Norway, Sweden, and Slovenia,” she says.

In recent years, floods have become almost commonplace in certain locations in Kosovo, especially in municipalities through which the White Drin River flows. These floods cause significant material damage, primarily in the agricultural sector but also to residential homes. Notably, floods in several villages of the Skenderaj municipality in January 2023 caused unexpected damage, as this area was not known for such flooding.

Climate Change Influences the Spread of Allergies and Weakens Immunity

Climate change has various and numerous consequences, creating a chain of impacts that result in different types of health issues.

Bardhë Selmanaj, director of the Allergy-Immunology Clinic at QKUK, states that air pollution and climate change directly contribute to the spread of allergies by increasing the levels and distribution of allergens such as mold and pollen.

Dr. Selmanaj highlighted the fact that climate change in Kosovo has contributed to an increase in asthma cases.

“Climate change (global warming), as a significant factor both globally and in Kosovo, has influenced the rise in allergic asthma and allergic rhinitis. It is also linked to the worsening of allergic symptoms,” she stated.

Dr. Selmanaj explained that exposure to air pollution and climate change also weakens the immune system in several ways, leading to diseases such as allergic asthma, various allergies, and other illnesses.

She elaborated on how the lack of rainfall and drought create health issues. According to Dr. Selmanaj, extreme heat and drought cause stress on the body, leading to the worsening of autoimmune diseases and inflammatory disorders.

“Strong winds carry pollen from one place to another, while the lack of rainfall and drought extend the pollen season. Increased contact with new pathogens, along with climate change, promotes the migration of pathogens and insects (such as mosquitoes), increasing new risks for the immune system,” stated Dr. Selmanaj, who is a specialist in allergology and immunology.

She also noted that industrial pollution and the use of fuels contribute to air pollution in Kosovo, posing serious health risks.

“Women and children are more vulnerable due to biological and environmental factors. Children have a faster breathing rate. Women, due to hormonal changes and pregnancy, are more susceptible to inflammatory processes,” said Dr. Selmanaj.

Regarding air pollution from vehicles, research has confirmed that air quality in Kosovo would be 50% cleaner if there were no vehicles in circulation. A study conducted by Preportr in 2020 presented data from the Hydrometeorological Institute, comparing air quality measurements from two regular months and two months during the Covid-19 lockdown. The comparison showed that vehicles contribute to 50% of air pollution.

Women Are More Vulnerable to Climate Change Factors

Dr. Besim Morina, a pulmonology specialist, states that air pollution and global climate change are two often interrelated factors that have a direct impact on the well-being and health of the entire population, with a particular emphasis on vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and women of reproductive age.

“It has been proven that women are more sensitive, particularly in cases where they suffer from chronic respiratory problems. Women are more affected by climate change triggers,” says Dr. Morina.

He explains that women are more likely to suffer from asthma, and the occurrence of out-of-season viral infections can be a significant factor in worsening their condition. Additionally, he notes that air pollution can contribute to this deterioration or exacerbation.

“Besides asthma, there are other clinical conditions such as bronchitis and pneumonia, which can be linked to viral and bacterial infections that become more frequent,” says pulmonologist Morina.

He highlights that recent studies show an increase in respiratory problems among children. Dr. Morina attributes this to various causes, with climate change playing an important role.

“Children now face more respiratory hypersensitivity issues, respiratory allergies, asthma, and bronchitis. A significant contributing factor to this is the sterile lifestyle, lack of exposure to allergens, and reduced contact with nature,” emphasizes Dr. Morina.

Climate Change Impacts Women’s Reproductive Health

According to Women Deliver, a global advocacy organization focused on advancing gender equality and improving girls’ and women’s health and sexual and reproductive rights, climate change has both direct and indirect impacts on women’s reproductive health.

A publication by the organization highlights that these effects include damage to healthcare infrastructure, an increased burden of household and caregiving responsibilities, as well as negative impacts on nutrition and maternal and child health.

“For example, extreme weather events such as storms and floods can destroy healthcare infrastructure and limit access to reproductive health services. Another impact is the increased domestic workload for girls and women, such as fetching water or caring for family members, which exposes them to a higher risk of gender-based violence,” states Women Deliver’s research.

Another study by the organization notes that the reduction in agricultural production due to droughts and global warming also has severe consequences for women’s health, including a higher risk of premature births and health complications during pregnancy.

“These impacts worsen existing inequalities and limit opportunities to achieve gender equality and the realization of reproductive health rights,” the research concludes.

Increased Flooding in Kosovo

Meteorologist Mendim Rugova states that climate change has various environmental impacts, causing different consequences. He explains that due to these changes, Kosovo has experienced more frequent floods in recent years.

According to Rugova, climate projections for the region suggest that although overall precipitation levels may decrease towards the end of the century, short, intense rainfalls leading to flash floods will become more common. As a result, the likelihood of rapid flooding and river overflows will increase.

“These developments are undoubtedly linked to climate change, as a warmer atmosphere can hold more water vapor, which then falls as heavier precipitation,” says Rugova.

Regarding the milder winters in recent years, Rugova states that a deeper analysis is needed. However, based on observed meteorological patterns, he notes that atmospheric pressure fields are shifting their trajectories across the region.

He explains that high-altitude air currents, which usually guide cyclones toward this geographic area, are now keeping them further north of the Balkans, allowing warmer air masses to pass over the region, leading to higher temperatures.

“This is also connected to the decrease in snowfall in recent years, as warmer air masses result in more rainfall rather than snow. That’s why we have seen more intense rainfalls during the winter months, such as in January 2021 and 2023,” Rugova emphasizes.

Rugova states that one of the sectors most impacted by climate change is agriculture, attributing this to drought, heavy rainfall, and hailstorms.

“Excessive rainfall and high humidity can also lead to various plant diseases, which reduce crop yields,” Rugova explains, adding that the effects of climate change can also be observed in the energy sector, particularly in hydropower production, due to river drying during the summer.

Meteorologist Rugova notes that “Kosovo has started addressing climate change as a serious issue later than other European countries.”

“It was only in 2015 that an interministerial group was formed to coordinate activities between ministries in tackling climate change challenges. During that period, with the support of European organizations, a climate change strategy was developed, outlining both mitigation and adaptation measures,” Rugova states.

He emphasizes that in December 2023, the Assembly of the Republic of Kosovo passed the Climate Change Law, which defines the obligations and responsibilities of state authorities in implementing measures aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change and ensuring their monitoring.

Weak Institutional Efforts in Kosovo

Given Kosovo’s socio-economic situation and various ongoing developments, climate change seems to be treated as a peripheral issue. Tafë Veselaj, head of the Environmental Monitoring Sector at the Kosovo Environmental Protection Agency (KEPA), states that assessments show that women’s and children’s health in Kosovo is directly affected by high temperatures caused by climate change.

Referring to KEPA’s 2022 Environmental Status Report, Veselaj emphasizes that air pollution remains one of the country’s biggest environmental problems. The report indicates that several cities, especially Pristina, frequently exceed alarming pollution levels.

Veselaj believes that Kosovo has made some progress in tackling climate change in recent years, but there is still much to be done.

He states that Kosovo is particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts, especially extreme weather events such as heatwaves, floods, and droughts.

According to him, the energy sector is a primary source of pollution and greenhouse gas emissions contributing to global warming.

“Kosovo’s current commitment can be considered partial, with some efforts and international engagements, but there are still many challenges and shortcomings to address,” he declares.

The Kosovo Food and Veterinary Agency (KFVA) has also expressed concerns about climate change, particularly its effects on food quality.

The agency has told QIKA that it conducts official inspections based on risk assessments, including those related to climate change, when such changes might increase hazardous agents in food.

“The frequency of inspections and sampling increases in cases of climate changes, such as high temperatures, floods, droughts, and other extreme conditions, when they could affect food safety for both humans and animals,” states KFVA.

Climate Change Will Keep Causing Far-Reaching Effects

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that climate change is affecting people’s lives and health in various ways. According to the WHO, this situation threatens essential components of good health—clean air, safe drinking water, food supply, and secure shelter—and has the potential to undo decades of progress in global health. 

Between 2030 and 2050, climate change is expected to cause approximately 250,000 additional deaths per year due to malnutrition, malaria, diarrhea, and heat stress, according to WHO projections. 

In the face of climate change, the National Institute of Public Health of Kosovo (IKSHPK) reports that it continuously monitors weather information from the Kosovo Hydrometeorological Institute. “In cases of rising temperatures, we urge citizens to take precautions by issuing recommendations. Meanwhile, in the event of floods, IKSHPK teams are deployed in the field to assess the situation and propose appropriate measures to protect public health,” the institute states.

—————————————————————————————————————

This article is supported by the German government and implemented through Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH as part of the International Forum on Women, Peace, and Security 2024 – “Civil Society Support Scheme (CSS),” organized by the Office of the President of the Republic of Kosovo. The views and opinions expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect those of GIZ or the Office of the President of the Republic of Kosovo.Climate change is contributing to the increase in disease cases in Kosovo

Merita Miftari

Climate change poses a significant threat to human health, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as children, women, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses. In Kosovo, the National Institute of Public Health (IKShPK) confirms that these changes exacerbate health conditions, especially for patients suffering from respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Research indicates that climate change negatively impacts women’s reproductive health. Meteorology experts explain the reasons behind these changes, while institutions have done little to address this issue.

Reports frequently highlight that the global average temperature is rising at an unprecedented rate in modern history, leading to glacier melting, sudden floods, and devastating droughts. These changes, driven by climate change, have multifaceted consequences, threatening not only the planet and the environment but also our health. Media outlets often report an increase in individuals affected by various respiratory, heart, and other diseases. Various studies, environmental experts, and health professionals assert that climate change significantly influences these illnesses.

Climate change refers to long-term alterations in weather patterns and temperatures on Earth, primarily caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation. Numerous studies indicate that these activities increase greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, causing the planet to warm. Consequently, the effects include floods, droughts, more powerful storms, and ecosystem changes that impact our health, economy, and nature.

Inevitably, climate change has also had negative impacts in Kosovo. A study conducted by the National Institute of Public Health of Kosovo (IKShPK) during 2018-2022 confirms this. According to this research, climate change affects health by worsening conditions in patients with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The most frequent causes of death in the over-65 age group are respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Among non-communicable diseases for the period 2015-2021, leading conditions include hypertension (46.5%), non-insulin-dependent diabetes (36.9%), insulin-dependent diabetes (6.35%), and schizophrenia (2.95%).

The institute also reports that climate change contributes to an increase in allergy cases and mental health disorders, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly, individuals with chronic diseases, pregnant women, and children.

Children Face the Highest Risk

Alarmingly, in recent years, the direct health consequences of climate change have become evident in the health of children in Kosovo.

Vlora Nimani, a pediatrician in the pediatric emergency department at the University Clinical Center of Kosovo (QKUK), notes that during the past summer, there was an increase in the number of children affected by heat who sought medical assistance at QKUK.

She states that heatwaves are becoming more frequent and dangerous, potentially causing heatstroke and dehydration, especially in children who are more sensitive to temperature changes.

“They can cause temporary or even permanent damage to children’s bodies, increasing the risk of problems with vital organs such as the heart and kidneys,” emphasizes Dr. Nimani.

She explains that there are several ways in which climate change contributes to the rise in disease cases.

“Young children are more at risk from the impacts of climate change for several reasons. Their immune and physical systems are not fully developed, making them more susceptible to infections and environmental stress,” says Nimani.

The doctor clarifies that the most common diseases can be infectious in nature, respiratory illnesses such as asthma linked to air pollution, inadequate nutrition, and poor hygiene conditions, which can also be the basis for the emergence of many diseases in children.

“Children spend more time outdoors and are more exposed to pollution and heat conditions. Children living in poor conditions with limited access to healthcare services, healthy food, and clean water are also more at risk,” explains pediatrician Nimani.

She calls for state and societal mobilization to ensure a safe and healthy environment for Kosovo’s citizens.

Rise in Viral Infections Among Children

Environmental consequences of climate change impact children’s immunity, especially in younger age groups. Paulina Nushi-Muhaxhiri, a journalist and mother of two, shares that during routine conversations with other mothers, a common concern is that “children are experiencing more respiratory issues or lung problems like bronchitis than ever before.”

She believes that poor air quality, the lack of continuous natural air purification processes like snowfall in winter, fluctuating temperatures, and children’s constant exposure to this situation are having negative effects.

Nushi-Muhaxhiri notes that her own children have not experienced health issues due to climate change, aside from common viral infections.

“But in contact with many mothers, the concern is that children are experiencing more respiratory issues or lung problems like bronchitis or, in more severe cases, pneumonia than ever before,” she says.

She emphasizes the need for discussions about climate change within families, schools, media, and society in general, as well as for state institutions to undertake informative campaigns and develop policies aimed at improving the situation in this regard.

“We had a tragic event in the city of Peja, where a mother and her child lost their lives due to floods that occurred there. Also, last year, Europe recorded record rainfall that caused floods in Italy, Norway, Sweden, and Slovenia,” she says.

In recent years, floods have become almost commonplace in certain locations in Kosovo, especially in municipalities through which the White Drin River flows. These floods cause significant material damage, primarily in the agricultural sector but also to residential homes. Notably, floods in several villages of the Skenderaj municipality in January 2023 caused unexpected damage, as this area was not known for such flooding.

Climate Change Influences the Spread of Allergies and Weakens Immunity

Climate change has various and numerous consequences, creating a chain of impacts that result in different types of health issues.

Bardhë Selmanaj, director of the Allergy-Immunology Clinic at QKUK, states that air pollution and climate change directly contribute to the spread of allergies by increasing the levels and distribution of allergens such as mold and pollen.

Dr. Selmanaj highlighted the fact that climate change in Kosovo has contributed to an increase in asthma cases.

“Climate change (global warming), as a significant factor both globally and in Kosovo, has influenced the rise in allergic asthma and allergic rhinitis. It is also linked to the worsening of allergic symptoms,” she stated.

Dr. Selmanaj explained that exposure to air pollution and climate change also weakens the immune system in several ways, leading to diseases such as allergic asthma, various allergies, and other illnesses.

She elaborated on how the lack of rainfall and drought create health issues. According to Dr. Selmanaj, extreme heat and drought cause stress on the body, leading to the worsening of autoimmune diseases and inflammatory disorders.

“Strong winds carry pollen from one place to another, while the lack of rainfall and drought extend the pollen season. Increased contact with new pathogens, along with climate change, promotes the migration of pathogens and insects (such as mosquitoes), increasing new risks for the immune system,” stated Dr. Selmanaj, who is a specialist in allergology and immunology.

She also noted that industrial pollution and the use of fuels contribute to air pollution in Kosovo, posing serious health risks.

“Women and children are more vulnerable due to biological and environmental factors. Children have a faster breathing rate. Women, due to hormonal changes and pregnancy, are more susceptible to inflammatory processes,” said Dr. Selmanaj.

Regarding air pollution from vehicles, research has confirmed that air quality in Kosovo would be 50% cleaner if there were no vehicles in circulation. A study conducted by Preportr in 2020 presented data from the Hydrometeorological Institute, comparing air quality measurements from two regular months and two months during the Covid-19 lockdown. The comparison showed that vehicles contribute to 50% of air pollution.

Women Are More Vulnerable to Climate Change Factors

Dr. Besim Morina, a pulmonology specialist, states that air pollution and global climate change are two often interrelated factors that have a direct impact on the well-being and health of the entire population, with a particular emphasis on vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and women of reproductive age.

“It has been proven that women are more sensitive, particularly in cases where they suffer from chronic respiratory problems. Women are more affected by climate change triggers,” says Dr. Morina.

He explains that women are more likely to suffer from asthma, and the occurrence of out-of-season viral infections can be a significant factor in worsening their condition. Additionally, he notes that air pollution can contribute to this deterioration or exacerbation.

“Besides asthma, there are other clinical conditions such as bronchitis and pneumonia, which can be linked to viral and bacterial infections that become more frequent,” says pulmonologist Morina.

He highlights that recent studies show an increase in respiratory problems among children. Dr. Morina attributes this to various causes, with climate change playing an important role.

“Children now face more respiratory hypersensitivity issues, respiratory allergies, asthma, and bronchitis. A significant contributing factor to this is the sterile lifestyle, lack of exposure to allergens, and reduced contact with nature,” emphasizes Dr. Morina.

Climate Change Impacts Women’s Reproductive Health

According to Women Deliver, a global advocacy organization focused on advancing gender equality and improving girls’ and women’s health and sexual and reproductive rights, climate change has both direct and indirect impacts on women’s reproductive health.

A publication by the organization highlights that these effects include damage to healthcare infrastructure, an increased burden of household and caregiving responsibilities, as well as negative impacts on nutrition and maternal and child health.

“For example, extreme weather events such as storms and floods can destroy healthcare infrastructure and limit access to reproductive health services. Another impact is the increased domestic workload for girls and women, such as fetching water or caring for family members, which exposes them to a higher risk of gender-based violence,” states Women Deliver’s research.

Another study by the organization notes that the reduction in agricultural production due to droughts and global warming also has severe consequences for women’s health, including a higher risk of premature births and health complications during pregnancy.

“These impacts worsen existing inequalities and limit opportunities to achieve gender equality and the realization of reproductive health rights,” the research concludes.

Increased Flooding in Kosovo

Meteorologist Mendim Rugova states that climate change has various environmental impacts, causing different consequences. He explains that due to these changes, Kosovo has experienced more frequent floods in recent years.

According to Rugova, climate projections for the region suggest that although overall precipitation levels may decrease towards the end of the century, short, intense rainfalls leading to flash floods will become more common. As a result, the likelihood of rapid flooding and river overflows will increase.

“These developments are undoubtedly linked to climate change, as a warmer atmosphere can hold more water vapor, which then falls as heavier precipitation,” says Rugova.

Regarding the milder winters in recent years, Rugova states that a deeper analysis is needed. However, based on observed meteorological patterns, he notes that atmospheric pressure fields are shifting their trajectories across the region.

He explains that high-altitude air currents, which usually guide cyclones toward this geographic area, are now keeping them further north of the Balkans, allowing warmer air masses to pass over the region, leading to higher temperatures.

“This is also connected to the decrease in snowfall in recent years, as warmer air masses result in more rainfall rather than snow. That’s why we have seen more intense rainfalls during the winter months, such as in January 2021 and 2023,” Rugova emphasizes.

Rugova states that one of the sectors most impacted by climate change is agriculture, attributing this to drought, heavy rainfall, and hailstorms.

“Excessive rainfall and high humidity can also lead to various plant diseases, which reduce crop yields,” Rugova explains, adding that the effects of climate change can also be observed in the energy sector, particularly in hydropower production, due to river drying during the summer.

Meteorologist Rugova notes that “Kosovo has started addressing climate change as a serious issue later than other European countries.”

“It was only in 2015 that an interministerial group was formed to coordinate activities between ministries in tackling climate change challenges. During that period, with the support of European organizations, a climate change strategy was developed, outlining both mitigation and adaptation measures,” Rugova states.

He emphasizes that in December 2023, the Assembly of the Republic of Kosovo passed the Climate Change Law, which defines the obligations and responsibilities of state authorities in implementing measures aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change and ensuring their monitoring.

Weak Institutional Efforts in Kosovo

Given Kosovo’s socio-economic situation and various ongoing developments, climate change seems to be treated as a peripheral issue. Tafë Veselaj, head of the Environmental Monitoring Sector at the Kosovo Environmental Protection Agency (KEPA), states that assessments show that women’s and children’s health in Kosovo is directly affected by high temperatures caused by climate change.

Referring to KEPA’s 2022 Environmental Status Report, Veselaj emphasizes that air pollution remains one of the country’s biggest environmental problems. The report indicates that several cities, especially Pristina, frequently exceed alarming pollution levels.

Veselaj believes that Kosovo has made some progress in tackling climate change in recent years, but there is still much to be done.

He states that Kosovo is particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts, especially extreme weather events such as heatwaves, floods, and droughts.

According to him, the energy sector is a primary source of pollution and greenhouse gas emissions contributing to global warming.

“Kosovo’s current commitment can be considered partial, with some efforts and international engagements, but there are still many challenges and shortcomings to address,” he declares.

The Kosovo Food and Veterinary Agency (KFVA) has also expressed concerns about climate change, particularly its effects on food quality.

The agency has told QIKA that it conducts official inspections based on risk assessments, including those related to climate change, when such changes might increase hazardous agents in food.

“The frequency of inspections and sampling increases in cases of climate changes, such as high temperatures, floods, droughts, and other extreme conditions, when they could affect food safety for both humans and animals,” states KFVA.

Climate Change Will Keep Causing Far-Reaching Effects

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that climate change is affecting people’s lives and health in various ways. According to the WHO, this situation threatens essential components of good health—clean air, safe drinking water, food supply, and secure shelter—and has the potential to undo decades of progress in global health. 

Between 2030 and 2050, climate change is expected to cause approximately 250,000 additional deaths per year due to malnutrition, malaria, diarrhea, and heat stress, according to WHO projections. 

In the face of climate change, the National Institute of Public Health of Kosovo (IKSHPK) reports that it continuously monitors weather information from the Kosovo Hydrometeorological Institute. “In cases of rising temperatures, we urge citizens to take precautions by issuing recommendations. Meanwhile, in the event of floods, IKSHPK teams are deployed in the field to assess the situation and propose appropriate measures to protect public health,” the institute states.

—————————————————————————————————————

This article is supported by the German government and implemented through Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH as part of the International Forum on Women, Peace, and Security 2024 – “Civil Society Support Scheme (CSS),” organized by the Office of the President of the Republic of Kosovo. The views and opinions expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect those of GIZ or the Office of the President of the Republic of Kosovo.