Global pop sensation Dua Lipa has officially been granted citizenship of Kosovo, a move that deeply resonates with her personal identity. The singer, born in London to Kosovan-Albanian parents, expressed that the honor "completes the duality I have always had within," feeling that her two sides are now unified.
A Momentous Occasion
President Vjosa Osmani of Kosovo presented Lipa with her citizenship during a ceremony on Friday. President Osmani hailed Lipa as "one of the most iconic cultural figures in our country’s history" and expressed immense gratitude for her contributions to Kosovo. Sharing photos of the event on X, Osmani stated, "Dua and Kosovo have always been inseparable. From the world’s biggest stages to the hearts of millions, she’s carried our story with strength, pride, and grace."
Lipa’s Connection to Kosovo
Lipa’s connection to Kosovo is profound. She lived in the capital, Pristina, for a brief period when she was 11 years old, following her parents’ return after Kosovo gained independence. The "Radical Optimism" singer has consistently spoken about her love for the country and has actively supported it through her charity work, focusing on vulnerable communities.
Sunny Hill Festival and Advocacy
The citizenship ceremony coincided with Lipa’s visit to Kosovo for the three-day Sunny Hill Festival, which she headlined on Friday. Lipa, along with her father, established the festival in her parents’ hometown in 2018 with the aim of "chang[ing] the rhetoric of what people think about Kosovo and it being war-torn." In 2022, Lipa was also awarded the title of Honorary Ambassador of Kosovo by President Osmani.
A Dual Citizen
This latest citizenship adds to Lipa’s existing citizenships. She was granted Albanian citizenship in 2022 for her role in promoting the country through her music and international fame. The UK Ambassador to Kosovo, Jonathan Hargreaves, was also present at the ceremony, remarking that both the UK and Kosovo are proud to consider the pop star "one of our own."
Key Takeaways
- Dua Lipa has been granted Kosovo citizenship by President Vjosa Osmani.
- The singer expressed that the citizenship unifies her dual identity.
- Lipa has a strong connection to Kosovo, having lived there briefly and established the Sunny Hill Festival.
- She previously received Albanian citizenship and was named an Honorary Ambassador of Kosovo.
Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008, a move recognized by many Western nations but not by Serbia or its allies.
