Current Position: Chief Development Officer at RIT Kosovo (A.U.K)
Brigadier General (Ret.) Xhavit Gashi has had a distinguished career in both military and diplomatic arenas, significantly contributing to Kosovo’s development and international relations.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1973 in Studenicë, Municipality of Istog, Kosovo, Gashi pursued higher education at the University of Prishtina, earning a Bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature. He furthered his studies with a Master’s in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College.
Military and Diplomatic Career
Gashi’s career encompasses over two decades of service:
- Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA): During the late 1990s, he served as a commander of a KLA platoon known as the “Illyrian Wolves,” reflecting his active involvement in Kosovo’s struggle for independence.
- Kosovo Security Force (KSF): He played a pivotal role in the establishment and development of the KSF, focusing on security sector reform and capacity building.
- Defense Attaché to the USA: Gashi was appointed as Kosovo’s first Security and Defense Attaché in Washington, D.C., strengthening military and defense relations between Kosovo and the United States.
- Consul General in Iowa: He served as the inaugural Consul General at the Consulate of the Republic of Kosovo in Des Moines, Iowa, enhancing diplomatic and economic ties between Kosovo and the state of Iowa.
Post-Retirement Engagements
After retiring from military service, Gashi continued his involvement in various capacities:
- RIT Kosovo (A.U.K): In November 2024, he was appointed Director of the Fred Cuny Peace and Conflict Summer Program at RIT Kosovo, contributing to academic initiatives focused on peace and conflict studies.
- Gashi Strategies: He founded Gashi Strategies, a consultancy firm specializing in national security policy development, defense operations, cybersecurity, logistics, procurement, and international collaboration.
- ITBM Group: Gashi is associated with ITBM Group, where he continues to leverage his expertise in defense and security matters.
Professional Affiliations and Recognitions
Throughout his career, Gashi has been affiliated with several prestigious institutions:
- George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies: He is a co-founder of the Kosovo Marshall Centre Alumni Association and has organized conferences in Pristina.
- FBI Citizens Academy: His participation in this program reflects his commitment to enhancing law enforcement collaboration.
- United States Army War College: His academic achievements here underscore his strategic military expertise.
