The burning of journalist Sami Curri’s car in Bulqizë has raised renewed concerns about the safety of local journalists in Albania and the need for a timely institutional response.
On 4 May 2026, representatives of media organisations, civil society, international partners coordinated by SCiDEV met in Bulqizë and Peshkopi to discuss the case, express solidarity with Curri and underline the importance of coordinated follow-up by the competent authorities.
The visit began at the newsroom of Bulqiza Ime, where Curri works and leads the local media outlet. Participants expressed support for Curri and the newsroom, encouraging them to continue reporting in the public interest. The case was discussed in the context of the pressures faced by local journalists, especially when reporting on local governance, the mining industry, labour conditions and environmental impact.
Curri thanked participants for their support and stressed that the incident must be investigated with maximum seriousness. He said that clarifying the case is necessary not only for justice in his case, but also to send a message that attacks and intimidation against journalists cannot be tolerated. He also called for stronger support for local media and journalists in Albania, who often work in difficult conditions and with limited protection.
Following the meeting in Bulqizë, SCiDEV facilitated a working discussion in Peshkopi with representatives of the Ministry of Interior, State Police and the Dibër General Jurisdiction Prosecution Office, together with media and civil society actors, including the Association of Journalists of Albania, BIRN Albania, Amfora Media and representatives from EUD, CoE and Dutch Embassy.
The discussion focused on the handling of the case and the need to use existing mechanisms for the protection of journalists. Participants underlined that cases involving journalists require coordinated treatment by prosecution and police, timely investigative action and sustained follow-up.
Representatives of law enforcement institutions confirmed their commitment to the case and to the application of relevant procedures. This engagement was welcomed as an important basis for moving the response forward. Participants stressed that the case should be treated with the seriousness required when an attack may be linked to journalistic work.
The SafeJournalists Network recalls that attacks against journalists must be investigated promptly, thoroughly and effectively, with due attention to any possible link with their work. The Network will continue to monitor the case and expects the authorities to ensure sustained follow-up until the incident is fully clarified and those responsible are brought before justice.
