It is a great honour for me to pay tribute to the President of the Republic of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani. Madam President, you are truly an inspiring and remarkable figure, and it is with this admiration that the M100 Sanssouci Colloquium recognises you with its M100 Media Award.

Nearly 240 years ago, in 1784, Immanuel Kant wrote that “Enlightenment is man’s emergence from his self-imposed immaturity” and that such an emergence requires “resolution and courage” to use one’s own intellect. Madam President, when I had the privilege of meeting you and learning about your background and political career, this definition by Kant came to mind. Because that is exactly what you embody: the determination and courage to make full use of your own intellect. This has brought about great consequences, and I would like to highlight a few.

President Osmani is unwavering in her commitment to freedom and democracy, to human rights, and to the rule of law. In continuing the work of her great predecessor, Ibrahim Rugova, she preserves his political legacy under better conditions. In Kosovo, this legacy is known as the spirit of ‘Rugovism’ – believing in the power of humanity and reason, granting every person the right to pursue happiness, and ensuring the strength of the law, refusing to accept the supposed might of the strong. This philosophy extends beyond individuals and societies to nations and states alike.

None of this is taken for granted, nor is it guaranteed – it is always under challenge. President Osmani has courageously taken on this challenge for her country. She was deeply involved in the drafting of Kosovo’s constitution and represented Kosovo before the International Court of Justice, which confirmed Kosovo’s declaration of independence. I sincerely hope all European Union member states, and others beyond, will follow suit in recognising this.

Kosovo, like all states in the Balkans, is part of Europe, and not just in the geographical sense. We all know that the path to the European Union is not an open door that can simply be walked through. Every European country, including Germany, is ultimately too small to assert itself alone; only by working together can the peoples and nations of Europe secure peace, freedom, and – if I may summarise – safeguard a civilisation grounded in a good life. President Osmani’s award acknowledges her efforts to position Kosovo in this spirit, both within Europe and as a beacon of hope on the global stage.

President Osmani’s political journey is a powerful reflection of the strength and resilience of the people of Kosovo. She personifies a people rising from the ashes of war, committed to truth, justice, and courage in the face of convention. Her dedication to Euro-Atlantic values is a promise to her citizens – a promise that their voices will be heard, their rights protected, and their futures secured.

This is not merely a political ambition or a convenient slogan. Born in Mitrovica in 1982, President Osmani spent her childhood as part of a minority that was increasingly harassed, endangered, and ultimately driven towards expulsion. As a young woman, she studied law in a traditionally male-dominated environment and excelled, earning a doctorate in the United States, teaching and practising law, all while shaping the political landscape. Returning to her homeland, she has shown not only incredible commitment but also personal warmth and care for others. For her, political responsibility is truly ingrained.

M100’s presentation of this award underlines President Osmani’s dedication to democracy and the rule of law. Her tireless work towards Kosovo’s integration into Euro-Atlantic structures is rooted in the belief that every citizen deserves the protection of their freedoms, rights, and opportunities. Her pursuit of reforms, fight against corruption, and efforts to strengthen democratic institutions are not just political acts but expressions of her deep faith in her country and its people.

Central to her leadership is the fight against corruption – not just as a political priority, but as a moral imperative. President Osmani understands that democracy can only thrive when built upon transparency, accountability, and integrity. In a region still bearing the scars of conflict, she has shown that courage and principled leadership can overcome even the greatest of challenges. Her unwavering commitment to the rule of law reflects her belief in a just society where no one stands above the law, and all are equal before it.

What distinguishes President Osmani further is her profound dedication to empowering others, particularly women. She recognises that the true strength of a nation lies not just in its military or economic might but in the opportunities it offers to all its citizens, regardless of gender. Her advocacy for women’s rights and gender equality is an inspiration. She has consistently shown young women and girls across Kosovo, and indeed the world, that their dreams matter, their voices matter, and that no boundaries can hold them back. Above all, she has brought her country into the global effort on the women, peace, and security agenda, ensuring women’s participation in decision-making and policy-making at every level.

President Osmani is resolute. She has stood firm against those who would seek to hinder her country’s progress. She has reminded us that freedom is not a gift to be taken lightly, but a right to be protected and defended at all costs. Her resolve stands as a testament to her unshakeable belief in the values we cherish: freedom, democracy, and the pursuit of peace.

Her work on the international stage has not gone unnoticed, and today, this award serves as a recognition of her tireless advocacy for Kosovo’s rightful place in the Euro-Atlantic community. It is a clarion call for integration, cooperation, and mutual respect –  a call to acknowledge the contributions of a young republic, boldly confronting its challenges while building a better future.

In honouring President Osmani, we also honour the people of Kosovo. Their journey towards democracy and self-determination has been arduous, but it has been led by leaders like President Osmani who recognise that a nation’s strength lies in the values its people uphold. Their leadership is a source of hope and inspiration, not only for Kosovo but for all who believe in the transformative power of democracy.

Just a few months ago, President Osmani stood at the Peace Summit for Ukraine, addressing more than a hundred world leaders. She said: “Just 25 years ago, I was a child of war, hiding in the mountains of Kosovo, hoping that people like you would come to save us.” Twenty-five years ago, as Defence Minister, I saw NATO – after months of fruitless negotiations – take military action to end the atrocities in Kosovo. Awarding President Osmani the M100 Award is not only a recognition of her tireless work but a reflection of the values that bound us together then and continue to bind us now.

Ladies and gentlemen, the M100 Media Award is not just a tribute to past achievements; it is also an encouragement for the future. It reminds us that leadership matters, that courage and conviction can make a profound difference, and that the fight for democracy, justice, and equality is always worth fighting for.

President Osmani, we thank you for your vision, your courage, and your steadfast commitment to the cause of freedom and justice – the very values that unite us this evening and form the foundation of our society. I warmly congratulate you.