Happy Birthday to my daughter

My five-year-old turned six today!  Here's the 46 kindergartners in her class partying.

A good time was had by all....I think :)

Tentative good news about the Kosovar economy

According to an ECIKS report, the extensive economic reforms which began in 1999 are finally showing measurable and sustainable results.  Here are some highlights:

• Kosovo’s GDP is estimated to have grown by about 3% in 2006
• After a fall in 2005, Kosovo’s exports grew remarkably in 2006 by 54%, with a modest growth of imports by 5%.
• the rate of non-housing private investment grew impressively by 61% and lending to the private sector also increased.
• The rate of inflation stood near zero, in spite of accelerating economic activity.
• Government spending was kept within the prescribed and sustainable levels, in line with a Letter of Intent, which the Government of Kosovo signed with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in 2005

This is pretty good news, though largely invisible to the average Fatmir on the street.  In fact, most would dispute the inflation statistic as the price of food is sky-rocketing.  Prices of essentials like oil, flour and milk have increased by 70-80 percent!

Overcoming cultural biases

Below is an interesting video documentary.  It shows the experiences of ten students from Kosovo and Serbia who live together in Prishtina.  Both groups share their ingrained biases about the other (hygene, family size, etc.) and work to overcome them.

It's interesting because it shows the deep-seated prejudices that exists, few of which are based in reality.

via FreeKosova

Why Serbia can't let Kosovo go

Great article in Christian Science Monitor about the Serbian physiology behind the Kosovo question.  It doesn't offer any solution, but is a very short primer on the issue for folks who want it boiled down.

 

Why Kosovo is central to Serb national epic

Good video intro Kosovo

A Canadian Broadcast Company journalists travels back to Kosovo to revisit a doctor she had met during the war.  This is a good introduction to Kosovo for those unfamiliar with its recent history and present aspirations.  It's a little over eleven minutes long.

It's fun to see clinic and restaurants I've been to and eaten at!

via FreeKosova