Other threats to journalist Afrodita Hysaj 31.07.2024, Vlorë

Translations: Tirana 

On July 12, 2024, the Facebook page “Disidentët,” known for its satirical content, published an opinion piece criticizing Pranvera Resulaj, an MP for the Vlorë district. The post accused the MP of failing to address the needs of Vlorë residents during her term, questioned her previous role as the director of the Taxation Directorate, and argued that this MP and others from the governing party have failed the citizens.

In response, MP Pranvera Resulaj filed a defamation lawsuit against Afrodita Hysaj, journalist and owner of the “Disidentët” page on July 31, 2024. The lawsuit, filed with the First Instance Court of General Jurisdiction in Vlorë, claims that the statements made in the post are false and damaging to her reputation. The lawsuit references Article 120 of the Albanian Penal Code, which addresses defamation, and seeks legal action against Afrodita Hysaj.

Additionally, the MP publicly shared the lawsuit on her social media, including personal information such as the address, mobile number, and email of Afrodita Hysaj, which is in violation of the data protection framework and puts the journalists potentially at risk.  

Public figures, such as politicians, are generally subject to a higher level of scrutiny and criticism due to their roles in governance. The post published by “Disidentët” is characterized as a satirical opinion piece. Satire and opinion are protected forms of speech under the principles of free expression, allowing individuals and media to critique public figures and governmental actions without fear of reprisal. The lawsuit against a satirical page and its journalist could set a concerning precedent for media freedom, potentially deterring journalists and media outlets from publishing critical content due to fear of legal repercussions.