Global superstar Dua Lipa was officially granted citizenship of Kosovo on Thursday, in an emotional ceremony that solidified her deep ties to her ancestral homeland. The pop icon, born in London to Kosovar Albanian parents, accepted the honor with a heartfelt tribute from a local children’s choir and a powerful message about the “completion” of her dual identity.
Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani announced the news on X, stating, “Welcome back home, Dua!” and praising the singer as “one of the most iconic cultural and artistic personalities in our country’s history.” In her post, President Osmani underscored Lipa’s role as a cultural ambassador, writing, “From the world’s biggest stages to the hearts of millions, she’s carried our story with strength, pride, and grace.”
The citizenship, granted by presidential decree, comes as a symbol of gratitude for Lipa’s unwavering efforts to promote Kosovo on the world stage. The 29-year-old singer has long embraced her heritage, co-founding the Sunny Hill Festival with her father in 2018 to celebrate Kosovan culture and challenge global perceptions of the country. Her advocacy extends beyond music; she has been a consistent voice for youth empowerment, visa liberalization, and the international recognition of Kosovo.
Dua Lipa, who previously received Albanian citizenship in 2022, now holds citizenship in both of her ancestral homelands. The artist, who moved back to Pristina with her family for a time when she was 11, has often spoken of her strong connection to the region. At the ceremony, a visibly moved Lipa expressed her gratitude, saying the citizenship “completes the duality I have always had within. I love this country and this means so much to me and my family.”
The ceremony was a deeply personal affair, marked by an adorable performance from a children’s choir that sang her hit song “Levitating,” much to the delight of the pop star. The British Ambassador to Kosovo, Jonathan Hargreaves, was also in attendance, describing Lipa as “one of our own” in both the UK and Kosovo, and celebrating the “extraordinary British-Kosovar talent.”
The granting of citizenship to a figure of Dua Lipa’s global stature is a significant diplomatic and cultural moment for Kosovo, a nation that declared independence from Serbia in 2008. While recognized by many Western countries, its statehood remains a point of contention with Serbia and its allies, including Russia. Lipa’s global platform provides a powerful, non-political voice for the nation’s identity and its vibrant culture.
As the Sunny Hill Festival kicks off in Pristina, with Lipa headlining the opening night, the celebration feels all the more significant. The newly minted Kosovan citizen is not just a performer on the world stage; she is a symbol of a nation’s pride, a testament to the power of cultural identity, and a beloved daughter who has officially come home.