https://www.linkedin.com/in/albina-kastrati-233519243/
Albina is a Kosovo-based investigative journalist covering governance, accountability, post-conflict justice, and human rights across the Western Balkans and Eastern Europe, with a focus on transitional justice and systemic abuse.
Her work has appeared in Radio Free Europe, Deutsche Welle, Balkan Insight, and Heartefact, and she was a BIRN Fellow of Journalistic Excellence for the 2024–2026 generation. She will begin an MSc in Criminology and Criminal Justice at Durham University in 2026.
“Albina Kastrati was selected for the Fellowship for Journalistic Excellence on the basis of her pitch about the survivors of wartime sexual violence in Kosovo…The reporting process threw up many challenges, as may be expected, and Albina adapted to them to produce a very solid draft. She delivered on time, and responded well to editorial feedback. She is to be commended for her commitment to the story, and for her concern for her sources…Albina has shown impressive determination for a young reporter. She has the drive to make the most of every opportunity that comes her way. Her spoken and written English are of a very high standard.”
— Neil Arun,
Editor, Fellowship for Journalistic Excellence, BIRN
“I met Albina Kastrati during her third year in the Journalism Department at the University of Prishtina, and I was immediately impressed by her passion and persistent approach in my course. She was one of the rare students who broadened her horizons, particularly regarding sensitive reporting on minority communities...Albina had a modest and cooperative attitude toward her peers, contributing positively to the classroom environment.”
— Jeta Abazi Gashi, Professor at University of Prishtina
“Albina's proactive and curious nature consistently stood out during her time with us… Her ability to adapt and take initiative was evident in the diverse range of tasks she undertook, from producing compelling articles and video stories to translating and narrating audio reports for radio broadcasts….Notably, Albina brought a strong sense of purpose of her storytelling. I wholeheartedly recommend Albina and I am confident she will excel in any opportunity she pursues.”
— Amra Zejneli Loxha, Kosovo Service Director of Radio Free Europe
“As an experienced journalist and a freelancer affiliated with the Association of Journalists of Kosovo, Albina has consistently demonstrated her commitment to producing impactful and high-quality reporting…
We trust Ms. Kastrati’s ability to deliver compelling and well-researched content…”
— Xhemajl Rexha,
Chairperson of the Board of the Association of Journalists of Kosovo
Contact details for referees available upon request.
For all inquiries: