Unraveling the Knot

Children with disabilities need care and support to feel included. Adriatik Muhadri, a 13-year-old student from Gjakova, faces the challenges of living with a paralyzed arm. Despite this, his determination and resilience shine through as he advocates for the rights of children with disabilities.

A Day in Adriatik’s Life

Adriatik’s daily routine is a blend of school, therapy, and family time. Each morning, he heads to Pjeter Bogdani School, where he excels academically. Afternoons are filled with computer games, physical activities, and essential physiotherapy exercises. His family’s unwavering support plays a crucial role in his well-being. “I love spending time with my family. Their support means the world to me,” Adriatik says with a smile. This balance helps him stay positive and focused on his goals.

With encouragement from his family, friends, and HANDIKOS Gjakova, Adriatik has become a vocal advocate against discrimination. “Many children with disabilities are mocked or bullied,” he says. His connection with UNICEF began through the HANDIKOS Gjakova advocacy group, where he first learned about the #UntieTheKnot initiative.

Impact of #UntieTheKnot

Adriatik first heard about the #UntieTheKnot initiative in late 2023. This initiative has been a significant support system for him and others, addressing the issue of bullying and raising awareness. Adriatik's attention was triggered when he heard about the big knot weighing 400 kg constructed with about 2000 meters of ropes that symbolize the complex issues children with disabilities face every day. “The knot symbolizes the complex problems we face. It can be untied with the help of parents, society, and communities,” he explains. The campaign’s four main objectives are to raise awareness, educate communities, encourage inclusivity, and promote advocacy for children with disabilities. This symbolic knot perfectly encapsulates these aims, highlighting the need for collective effort to  address these challenges. 

Empowering Voices and Fostering Change

Adriatik highlights that every moment advocating for the rights of children with disabilities has been transformative. “Being a voice for their rights is incredibly empowering,” he states. Engaging in initiatives and campaigns has significantly influenced his advocacy work and future aspirations, giving him confidence that his abilities will be recognized and respected.

Children with special needs often face unique challenges that can lead to feelings of isolation, discrimination, and a lack of opportunities.

Adriatik believes that by giving them a voice and advocating for their rights, we help ensure they receive the support and understanding they deserve. Empowering these children through advocacy creates an inclusive environment where they can thrive, develop their potential, and contribute meaningfully to society.

Participating in awareness campaigns and meeting local leaders, such as the mayor of Gjakova, has reinforced his belief in the power of advocacy. These experiences have instilled confidence in him that his abilities will be recognized and respected. A significant moment for Adriatik was when the mayor of Gjakova signed a commitment to inclusivity, symbolizing a collective achievement. “The mayor’s pledge felt like a weight lifted off our shoulders, showing that our hard work in advocacy is making a difference,” he recalls.

Adriatik hopes to see a community where children with disabilities are treated with dignity and equality, free from bullying and discrimination. “I have learned that I am a friendly person, without distinctions of race, religion, or gender. I stand against bullying and support children with disabilities in every way I can,” he asserts.

The campaign has also shaped his future aspirations, giving him confidence that his abilities will be recognized. Adriatik felt a mix of pride and responsibility participating in the awareness video, wanting to educate others about the impact of bullying. “I felt good and also not so good because I wanted people to understand and stop bullying children like me,” he says.

UNICEF’s impact and the call for advocacy

UNICEF’s support has been crucial for Adriatik and his peers. “They have helped us escape discrimination and feel more included in society,” he says. He encourages other children to seek UNICEF’s help if they need it. “I believe that my story, through UNICEF, can positively impact many children’s lives. The video aims to raise awareness among all children,” he concludes.

Adriatik’s journey is a testament to the power of advocacy, community support, and the positive impact of initiatives like #UntieTheKnot. Thanks to UNICEF and the European Union funds, we can now create a better world for Adriatik and other children with disabilities.

In Kosovo, around 11% of children with disabilities face discrimination and exclusion⁽¹⁾, while only 10% benefit from health and social services. Adriatik believes it is vital for the community to amplify the voices of these children, ensuring they receive the support and recognition they deserve. The community's collective effort is essential to help create an inclusive environment where all children can thrive. By embracing initiatives like these, we can strive to make a significant impact and ensure a brighter, more inclusive future for all children.

⁽¹⁾ UNICEF’s Report found here