The recent rise in gun ownership in Kosovo has become a noteworthy trend, sparking discussions about its causes and implications. Over the past three years, the Ministry of Internal Affairs has issued nearly 3,000 additional firearm permits, with more than 10,000 granted in 2024 alone. While many citizens cite recreational purposes such as target shooting and hunting as their reasons for obtaining firearms, security experts argue that a pervasive sense of public insecurity is the driving factor.
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A Shift in Public Sentiment
Among those pursuing gun permits is Besnik, a 25-year-old from Pristina. Speaking on condition of anonymity, he shared, “It feels natural to be safer when you know how to use a gun and have one with you.” Besnik was interviewed at the Psychiatry Clinic of Kosovo’s University Clinical Center, where he was undergoing mandatory psychological evaluations required for obtaining a firearm license. Beside him, another young man, Leart, also in his twenties, expressed his intention to apply for permits for both short and long firearms, driven by a mix of hobby and security concerns.
Regulations and Requirements
Kosovo’s firearm legislation stipulates that individuals must be at least 21 years old to apply for a gun license. Applicants must pass both theoretical and practical tests, undergo rigorous medical evaluations, and provide a credible reason for owning a firearm. Furthermore, a clean criminal record is mandatory. Even with a permit, firearms can be confiscated by court order if the owner fails to maintain their psychophysical abilities, violates regulations, or is convicted of a crime.
Rising Demand for Medical Evaluations
The growing demand for firearm permits has placed a spotlight on medical institutions. According to Dr. Faton Kutllovci, director of the Psychiatry Clinic, the number of young people seeking medical certifications for gun licenses has increased noticeably. From late September to early December 2024, the clinic issued approximately 500 health certificates. However, not all applicants succeed; those with a history of psychiatric treatments, substance abuse, or severe mental health issues are denied certification.
Regional Disparities in Issued Permits
Hospitals across Kosovo report varying figures for health certificates issued in 2024. Prizren’s General Hospital topped the list with 3,298 certifications, while Peja’s hospital issued 1,255. Mitrovica and Gjilan followed with 1,027 and 1,908, respectively. A significant proportion of certified individuals are between the ages of 21 and 27, highlighting the growing interest among young adults.
The Bigger Picture
Data from the Ministry of Internal Affairs reveals that over 35,000 firearm permits have been issued in the past four years, with annual numbers steadily rising. Meanwhile, Kosovo’s police confiscate approximately 1,500 illegal firearms annually, underscoring the prevalence of unregistered weapons. It is estimated that over 230,000 illegal firearms remain in civilian hands.
The uptick in gun ownership has raised concerns among security experts, including Burim Ramadani, a former deputy defense minister. “Security is not just physical; it is primarily a feeling,” he remarked, linking the trend to widespread perceptions of public insecurity.
The Road Ahead
As firearm ownership grows, authorities face the challenge of balancing individual rights with public safety. Enhanced regulations, community awareness campaigns, and a focus on addressing the root causes of insecurity will be crucial in managing this complex issue. The trend underscores the importance of fostering a secure environment that reduces the perceived need for firearms while ensuring that those who choose to own them are adequately trained and regulated.