Adem Jashari

1955 – 1998

Freedom Fighter
UÇK Commander

Adem Jashari was born into the Jashari family of Lower Prekazi in Drenica, Kosova, a household where stories of Albanian heroes were shared. He became the commander of the Kosova Army, which laid the groundwork for the UÇK. His name is closely tied to Kosovo's fight for independence.

Lower Prekazi

Born: 28 November 1955Lower Prekazi
Died: March 1998Prekaz
Active years: 1991 – 1998
Role: UÇK commander
Affiliation: Kosova Army / UÇK
Region: Drenica, Kosova
Family: Brother of Hamza and RifatSon of Shaban Jashari and Zahide Geci

Why He Matters

Founding commander of the UÇK
In April 1993 he proposed uniting all actions in Kosova under the Kosova Army and was voted its commander, laying the groundwork for the UÇK.
Symbol of defiance
His family's stand at Prekaz in December 1991 and March 1998 became a powerful message of resistance across Kosova.
Enduring national legacy
His name has become inseparable from Kosovo's fight for independence, and his legacy continues to guide its future.

Key Moments

1955
Born in Lower Prekazi
Adem Jashari was born on 28 November 1955 in the village of Lower Prekazi.
1991
Training in Albania
He led a second group of volunteers in military training at Surrel, then returned to Kosova on foot in December.
Dec 1991
First Prekaz clash
The Jashari brothers held off Serbian military police at the family home, an act that gave hope across Kosova.
1993
Chosen commander
On 5 April 1993 a meeting at the Jashari house voted him commander of the Kosova Army.
28 Nov 1997
UÇK appears publicly
UÇK fighters appeared in public at the funeral of teacher Halit Geci.
5 – 7 Mar 1998
Siege of Prekaz
Serbian forces besieged the Jashari compound for nearly 60 hours, and Adem was killed.