Community Development Fund (CDF) & Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA)
Background
Kosovo continues to face complex challenges related to radicalization, violent extremism, and the reintegration of citizens returning from conflict zones. In response, the Community Development Fund (CDF), in close partnership with the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA), launched a strategic initiative to strengthen local referral mechanisms, an essential pillar of the Kosovo Strategy on Prevention of Violent Extremism and Radicalization. The goal was to institutionalize cooperation between sectors and enable early identification, referral, and support for individuals at risk.
The Initiative
Under this initiative, a series of specialized Channel Trainings delivered by British experts equipped frontline professionals from the police, education, health, and social sectors with the skills to detect early signs of radicalization and act in a coordinated, preventive manner.
Trainings were conducted across Prishtina, Podujeva, Fushë Kosovë, Mitrovica, and Peja, using interactive case studies, joint risk-assessment exercises, and practical application of the Vulnerability Assessment Framework (VAF). Over 70 frontline professionals participated directly, enhancing their ability to collaborate across institutions.
To ensure sustainability, a Training of Trainers (ToT) program was conducted for fifteen central-level professionals from the MIA and partner institutions. Under the mentorship of British experts, these professionals successfully delivered the Channel Training to a selected group of frontline practitioners in Peja, observed and guided by the experts. This transfer of knowledge marked a pivotal step toward establishing Kosovo’s own capacity to lead, replicate, and expand the model nationwide.
Outcomes & Achievements
Through these efforts, a strong foundation has been laid for the creation of functional Multidisciplinary Teams across municipalities. Trained professionals are now equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to assess and refer cases, forming the initial human framework for future local mechanisms. The MIA’s specialized Channel Team has developed the capacity to independently conduct future trainings and guide the establishment of these mechanisms once operationalized.
Coordination among police, education, health, and social services has already improved markedly through the training process, transforming isolated actors into a network of professionals ready to collaborate through structured, joint action. By embedding certified ToT participants within institutions, the initiative has created a sustainable model that ensures continued expansion to other municipalities.
Why It Matters
This partnership represents a turning point in Kosovo’s prevention framework, shifting from reactive responses to proactive protection. By aligning with the national strategy and strengthening inter-institutional collaboration, the CDF and MIA initiative has built a foundation for long-term resilience and public trust.
“The success of the Channel Trainings lies not only in the knowledge transferred but in the collaboration built — a true example of how prevention starts at the local level.”