The Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AJK) expresses its deep disappointment with the response of Acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti, one week after the release of the Reporters Without Borders report on Kosovo.
In a speech delivered at a party gathering, Kurti failed to acknowledge or address the report’s findings. Instead, he shifted blame to the media and journalists for Kosovo’s ranking at 99th place in the global press freedom index.
Kurti’s proposal to offer “training and courses by the Government for journalists and media” represents a troubling and unacceptable attempt at government interference in the work of the press. This suggestion undermines the professionalism and independence of Kosovo’s media.
The Acting Prime Minister also neglected to mention the adoption of an unconstitutional law concerning the Independent Media Commission, the political influence his party exerts over the public broadcaster RTK, or the ongoing campaign of inflammatory and hostile rhetoric against journalists and media outlets by officials of his party.
AJK urges Mr. Kurti, and whoever forms the next government to engage in open and constructive dialogue with all stakeholders. The findings of the report must be taken seriously, and concrete steps must be taken to advance media freedom in Kosovo.