New video on what Ukraine can learn from Kosovo

If a ceasefire is soon declared, how can Ukraine ensure a sustainable post-war recovery?

The proliferation of small arms and light weapons poses a serious threat to security in post-conflict societies, and the successful reintegration of veterans back into civilian society is key to the rebuilding of communities. In the wake of any ceasefire, Ukraine will grapple with these such challenges; much, though, can be learnt from other international experiences. 

In May 2025, the Small Arms Survey, the Center for Security Studies “CENSS", and members of the Ukrainian Networking Group—under the framework of the project "Supporting Ukraine in Addressing the Risks of Small Arms and Light Weapons Proliferation from the Russian War of Aggression"—travelled to Pristina, Kosovo, to gain deeper understanding of Kosovo’s experience with post-conflict arms reduction, civilian gun ownership, legal reforms, border security, and the reintegration of former combatants.

Kosovo’s post-war lessons: Insights for Ukraine offers a snapshot of this research trip and explores what Ukraine can take from Kosovo’s efforts to manage post-conflict arms proliferation and societal stability.

Kosovo’s post-war lessons: Insights for Ukraine:

Today, Kosovo is one of the newest and most relevant experiences that Ukraine can draw on
—Viktoriia Veronina, Executive Director of CENSS

A few years ago we had a similar situation, and we believe it could be taken as an example of what could be expected in Ukraine in post-war time 
—Mensur Hoti, Director, Department of Public Safety, Kosovo

During the visit, the group met with Kosovar officials from the Ministries of Interior and Defence, as well as with forensic experts, border authorities, security think tanks, and veterans’ associations. 

We are grateful to all Kosovar partners who shared their time and insights, in particular Mensur Hoti, Director of the Department of Public Safety in Kosovo; the Kosovo Ministries of Defence and Internal Affairs; the Kosovo Forensic Agency; the Border Department; the Kosovo State Prosecutor’s Office; the Kosovo Centre for Security Studies; and ex-leaders of the Kosovo Liberation Army.