Dr. Flutura Kusari has been awarded by the German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier with the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany in the class of the Cross of Merit. This honour is bestowed upon Dr. Kusari in recognition of her outstanding contributions to media freedom, democracy, and civil society in Kosovo and beyond. The insignia of the Order were handed over to Dr. Kusari by Ambassador Rohde today in the Ambassador‘s residence in Pristina. The ceremony was greeted by former President Atifete Jahjaga, Member of the European Parliament Viola von Cramon and a broad range of Kosovar dignitaries including Members of Parliament and civil society. Dr. Flutura Kusari is the first Kosovar citizen to receive the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany.

Dr. Flutura Kusari is widely recognized as one of the most influential media policy activists in Kosovo, having established herself as a leading figure in civil society. Throughout her endeavours, she has championed the promotion of freedom of expression and media as fundamental prerequisites for democratic development in the region and its integration into the European Union.

Her tireless advocacy includes defending press freedom against political interference, verbal and physical attacks on journalists, and Strategic Lawsuits against Public Participation (SLAPP) cases. Dr. Kusari's constructive criticism and proactive approach have earned her the reputation of being a driving force for accountability within the government.

Working for the European Center for Press and Media Freedom between Pristina and Leipzig, Dr. Kusari has cultivated extensive networks in Kosovo, Germany, and across Europe. Through her projects, she consistently raises public and political awareness regarding press and media-related issues, actively shaping societal debates. Her collaboration with the German Embassy in Pristina on media policy matters and briefings to German delegations have significantly contributed to fostering a realistic understanding of Kosovo among German policymakers.

In recognition of her exceptional dedication to promoting press freedom, democracy, and German-Kosovar relations, the German Federal President decided to decorate Dr. Flutura Kusari with the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany.