This edition of the Media Landscape Brief provides an overview of the significant developments in Albania’s media environment during November 2024.
Overview of cases of attacks and threats against journalists
The SafeJournalists Network has recorded four cases of attacks and threats against journalists during November 2024.
On November 2, 2024, Rudina Muca, a journalist with Top Channel specializing in food safety and agriculture, reported an incident of alleged intimidation and retaliation from the Albanian Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development. The suspected intimidation followed Muca’s investigative reporting on the administration of a brucellosis vaccine. The Ministry in response to SJN denied the allegations, stating it operates in line with legal and transparency principles and that no official complained has been filed.
On November 6, 2024, Report TV journalist Armand Braho was allegedly threatened by Ylli Blacëri, a driver for the Pogradec Municipality, while covering an event. Korçë Prosecutor’s Office announced that an investigation has started regarding this case on November 8 for the alleged offense of “Threatening due to duty.” The investigation was prioritized, in line with a recent directive from the Prosecutor General on the safety of journalists.
Further on, video footage shared on social media shows journalist Lorena Resulaj of the “Piranja” investigative show being physically obstructed while attempting to question Roskovec Mayor Majlinda Bufi. The Municipality of Roskovec, in response to SJN, claimed that two individuals entered municipal premises without proper identification, violating security protocols. While the municipality highlighted its commitment to transparency, the incident underscores ongoing concerns about the obstruction of journalists in their efforts to hold public officials accountable. At the same time, it highlights the need to empower journalists to conduct their duties safely and effectively while adhering to professional ethics, including proper identification.
On the night of November 24, 2024, two individuals attempted to force entry into the “Koha Jonë” newspaper office in Tirana, with the newsroom alleging they intended to set the office on fire, prompting a police investigation.
Cases can be reported directly at the SafeJournalists Network Platform here.
On November 2nd, the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, we reaffirmed our commitment to media freedom and the safety of journalists in Albania as essential pillars of democracy, the rule of law, and civic space. Independent journalists working in the public interest, who hold those in power accountable, continue to face threats, pressures, and attacks that often go unpunished. In response, Albanian stakeholders are stepping up efforts to create a safer, more conducive environment for media freedom and journalist protection. More here.
SPAK Probes Alleged Links Between Journalists and Organized Crime
The Special Prosecution Office Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) has issued security measures against 21 individuals as part of a broader investigation into a criminal organization. Among those involved are journalists Artan Hoxha and Elton Qyno. The court has issued “obligation to appear” measures for the journalists. The journalists are accused of receiving unlawful monetary benefits for publishing misleading articles and videos that manipulate public perception. This is a major development for Albania, highlighting the importance of due process and the presumption of innocence, while underscoring the need for media accountability and the critical effort to dismantle any links between media and organized crime.
SCiDEV Publications on Digital Service Act, Digital Markets Act and Artificial Intelligence Act in Albania and Western Balkans
SCiDEV joined the efforts of regional partners, under the leadership of SHARE Foundation, to shed light on how the regulatory and legal framework in place addresses provisions of the Digital Services Act, Digital Markets Act, and Artificial Intelligence Act. The adoption of EU regulations for the Digital Services Act (DSA), Digital Markets Act (DMA), and AI Act, which follow the landmark GDPR regulation, marks a significant milestone in the EU’s efforts to regulate the digital sphere. Stemming from concerns about online harm, market dominance, and ethical AI, these regulations aim to create a safer, fairer, and more transparent digital environment for EU citizens. Our analysis assesses to what extent our regulatory framework aligns with these new EU regulations and what should be the next steps in the approximation of DSA/DMA and AI Act. The assessment for the regional level can be found here.
SCiDEV is currently developing a position paper exploring potential scenarios for the establishment of a Digital Services Coordinator in Albania. The paper will include specific recommendations on how the approximation process should be conducted to align with best practices and meet EU standards. We are happy to build synergies with complementary initiatives such as the advocacy position of the Institute for Democracy and Mediation (IDM) and other regional partners highlighting priority interventions to reinforce the rule of law, protect media freedoms, and uphold human rights. In the working breakfast organized by IDM, we emphasized that ensuring a transparent and inclusive process of consultation for the approximation remains critical as well as keeping in consideration that the structure of the Digital Services Coordinator (DSC) requires independence, efficiency, resources, and capacity to meet the DSA’s broad mandates.
On the announced Structured Dialogue with Media
Regarding the announced structured dialogue with the media, we observe that to the best of our knowledge and based on publicly available information, there were no significant developments in November. While we appreciate the commitment of the EU, CoE, and the lead facilitator Prof. Mark Marku to fostering this initiative, further clarity is needed on the methodology, timeline, and structure of the consultation process.
A transparent and well-communicated approach is essential to ensure the dialogue achieves its intended goals of inclusivity, effectiveness, and fostering trust among media actors and stakeholders. Establishing clear objectives, defining the roles of participants, and ensuring that civil society and media representatives are meaningfully engaged from the outset will be critical to the success of this effort.
On the EU Accession Process
On November 26, a meeting was held with Ms. Sigrid Brettel, Head of Unit for Albania at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Neighborhood and Enlargement Negotiations (DG NEAR), focusing on Cluster 1 benchmarks, including media freedom in Albania. Together with other civil society representatives, we emphasized the importance of safeguarding the quality and inclusiveness of the EU accession process, particularly in the context of its accelerated timeline. While we acknowledge the government’s commitment to advancing the process, it is crucial to ensure that speed does not come at the expense of transparency, accountability, and meaningful stakeholder engagement. We underscored the critical need for enhanced transparency, communication, and engagement with civil society actors by the government. Existing mechanisms, such as the Civil Society Partnership platforms, provide a valuable foundation for collaboration. However, further efforts are required to ensure these platforms are utilized effectively and inclusively, enabling civil society to contribute constructively to the accession process.
European Commission Annual Report 2024
The European Commission’s recently published 2024 Report on Albania underscores the enduring challenges to media freedom and freedom of expression—a topic of pressing concern that SCiDEV has persistently advocated for. Despite commitments to align with European standards, Albania’s progress in this area remains stagnant, facing obstacles that affect media independence, transparency, safety, and the working conditions of journalists. The EC report draws on our data to highlight ongoing challenges in media freedom and the safety of journalists and reiterates that any amendments to Albania’s legal framework must align with European standards and Venice Commission opinions and be subject to extensive consultations with media organizations and civil society based on a structured and inclusive dialogue. With an eye on future reforms, SCiDEV will continue to engage with national and European stakeholders to contribute to a conducive environment for journalism in the public interest.
On the Special Parliamentary Committee “To Coordinate and Oversee All Institutional Actions to Combat Disinformation and Other Forms of Foreign Interference in the Democratic Processes of the Country”
On November 6, the Committee held a hearing with the following institutions: the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs; the General Directorate of Taxation; and the National Business Center (QKB). On November 13, the Committee’s session included hearings with the National Agency for Information Society (AKSHI), and the State Intelligence Service (SHISH). The reporting of the institutions in the Committee has revealed a lack of coordination among agencies regarding responsibilities for combating disinformation and foreign interference. Additionally, they allege a growing threat of malicious foreign interference in the economy and other critical sectors, warning that this situation creates vulnerabilities that could undermine the country’s security and democratic processes. The institutions have emphasized that cooperation with international partners providing technical and financial support remains a priority. In an interview with Voice of America, the committee’s chair, Erion Braçe, expressed concern about increasing instances of foreign interference, including in several economic sectors. The Chair has highlighted that there is currently no legal provision specifically addressing disinformation within the country. This gap further complicates efforts to tackle the issue effectively. The Committee should draw on EU standards and the Council of Europe’s recommendations, which emphasize that combating disinformation should not involve restrictive legal definitions but instead promote transparency, media and information literacy, digital literacy, and multi-stakeholder cooperation while safeguarding fundamental rights. Learn more here.
The Special Parliamentary Committee will hold the inaugural meeting of its Expert Group on Wednesday, December 11, 2024. This meeting aims to formally establish the Expert Group, foster collaboration in addressing key challenges faced by the Committee, and define the next steps in drafting the National Strategy for Combating Disinformation and Malicious Foreign Interference. The Committee’s objectives include reviewing and strengthening the legal framework to prevent foreign interference in democratic, electoral, and economic processes, protecting national security from malicious activities, and safeguarding freedom of expression, media freedom, and pluralism online and offline. Additionally, it seeks to enhance public awareness and promote public debate on countering disinformation.
Cooperation with the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats
We joined the discussions of the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats with civil society organizations and academia hosted by the National Cyber Security Authority in Tirana. During the exchange, we emphasize the need to build trust in institutions amidst the growing disinformation and cyber security threats in the country. Education and awareness remain key to addressing these issues among the larger population, and although online awareness-raising campaigns have a wider reach, to change behaviors a combined approach, of online and in-person activities, is needed. Inclusion of the private sector and media, alongside civil society and academia, is key to fostering innovation in addressing cyber threats, and policy and executive institutions need to foster a quadruple helix approach in addressing these issues, allowing so also knowledge sharing among different stakeholders. Lastly, we advocated for the institutionalization of cybersecurity training and media and information literacy programs for students and teachers in the preuniversity system, as a key measure to foster skills and knowledge with pupils from a young age, considering their wide exposure to digital tools and the internet. SCiDEV is proud to cooperate with the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats and will soon publish a working paper on foreign interference in Albania focusing on Iran.
PM Edi Rama Addresses Potential TikTok Ban in Albania
During a press conference on November 20, 2024, Prime Minister Edi Rama addressed the potential banning of TikTok and Snapchat in Albania, framing the discussion as part of a broader effort to combat violence and harmful behaviors facilitated through social media. This consideration follows the tragic incident earlier in the month, where a 14-year-old student was fatally stabbed by a peer, with social media interactions reportedly playing a role in the events leading up to the tragedy. While acknowledging that such a ban would not entirely resolve the issue, PM Rama emphasized that it could reduce the online environments fostering aggression, bullying, and incitement to violence. He highlighted the need for a more comprehensive societal response, suggesting that the aggressive tone prevalent in media and online platforms exacerbates tensions and contributes to a culture of hostility.
The Prime Minister and the Minister for Education and Sports are organizing public events in schools across the country as part of what they describe as a consultation process with parents and teachers regarding the proposed ban on TikTok and Snapchat in Albania. While these events are presented as opportunities for open dialogue, concerns have been raised that the process may be more performative than substantive, lacking genuine debate and meaningful engagement with stakeholders. Critics argue that the discussions appear to prioritize optics over addressing the deeper, systemic issues driving youth exposure to harmful content online. Additionally, some have questioned whether this approach adequately incorporates expert input, such as from child psychologists, digital literacy educators, and civil society, to develop comprehensive and evidence-based strategies. The process has also sparked criticism for framing the issue narrowly around banning platforms rather than focusing on broader measures to educate and empower young people to navigate the digital landscape responsibly. The proposed ban carries significant implications, raising concerns about its impact on freedom of expression, the feasibility of enforcement, and the necessity for complementary measures. A ban alone may not address the underlying issues, underscoring the importance of a holistic approach that fosters responsible digital behavior while maintaining an open and inclusive online environment.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Albanian Media Council (AMC) published a policy blueprint to ensure the right to information in Albania
On November 19th, RsF and Albanian Media Council presented a blueprint with recommendations to ensure the right to information. They focus on key main areas: Strengthening journalist safety; Safeguarding media independence and pluralism; and Supporting sustainability and public trust in the media. The policy recommendations focus on strengthening journalist safety, protecting media independence, and supporting journalism in the long term. The recommendations will feed into the Structured Dialogue with Media in light of the European accession process. More about the policy blueprint can be read here.
At SCiDEV, we believe Albania stands at a decisive moment where meaningful reforms in media freedom can shape our democratic future and drive EU integration forward. Strengthening journalist safety and building a resilient, independent media landscape demand collective action from the media community, and civil society, and a firm display of political will and institutional commitment to make the right decisions. Genuine progress hinges on inclusive and transparent mechanisms that build trust and empower diverse voices in the process. Transforming the media landscape in Albania is not merely about meeting benchmarks, it is about building integrity and resilience in our media landscape.
SCiDEV is supporting local media to adhere to Journalism Trust Initiative standards
SCiDEV is supporting three media outlets (Shteg, Amfora, and ElbasaniOn) in Albania as they undergo the self-assessment process for compliance with the Journalism Trust Initiative. To facilitate this, SCiDEV is collaborating with the Albanian Media Council, providing mentorship and guidance to the selected outlets throughout the process. The JTI, an initiative by RSF, promotes ethical journalism and transparency through a rigorous self-assessment process. Recognized under the European Media Freedom Act, JTI aims to elevate trust in journalism. The initiative represents an effort to strengthen media integrity and align Albanian media with European standards. Learn more about it here. This effort underscores SCiDEV’s commitment to fostering a more transparent and trustworthy media landscape in Albania and is part of the project “Strengthening Journalistic Safety through Engaged Stakeholder Collaboration and Journalists’ Capacity Development in Albania” implemented by Center Science and Innovation for Development (SCiDEV) in collaboration with Citizens Channel and Free Press Unlimited, with the support of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Albania.
Upcoming Event: Get together with journalists to present key findings of our annual report on media freedom
At this year-end gathering, we are pleased to present the key findings of our comprehensive report on media freedom and freedom of expression indicators in Albania, assessed within the context of the EU accession process. The report also includes insights from a survey on the safety of journalists. This effort has been conducted by a team of experts through a collaborative effort between SCiDEV and BIRN Albania.
The findings from this in-depth analysis will be unveiled during the December 17, 2024 event, where local journalists will convene to engage in a meaningful discussion about the report’s implications. Additionally, these findings will be presented early in 2025 at a high-level national conference on journalist safety organized by the Council of Europe, bringing together key stakeholders to explore the challenges and opportunities for advancing media freedom and safety in Albania.
“Strengthening Media Freedom, Professionalism and Journalists’ Safety in Albania” is implemented by the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network in Albania (BIRN Albania), in partnership with SCiDEV and Qendra Faktoje, with the financial support of the European Union.
Upcoming meeting with local media outlets and Albanian Media Council to reflect on the role of JTI in strengthening self-regulation and media trust in Albania
An upcoming meeting with local media outlets and the Albanian Media Council focuses on reflecting on the role of the Journalism Trust Initiative (JTI) in strengthening self-regulation and fostering media trust in Albania. This discussion explores how JTI principles can enhance transparency, accountability, and professional standards within the Albanian media landscape, ultimately contributing to a more reliable and trusted information ecosystem. This interactive discussion will provide an opportunity to examine the progress, challenges, and practical applications of JTI principles while also considering additional measures to enhance self-regulation, such as capacity building, reinforcing ethical journalism standards, and fostering stronger accountability mechanisms.
A Union of Journalists and Media Workers established
We have noted the establishment of the Union of Journalists and Media Workers (SGPM), which claims to be Albania’s first nationwide trade union for journalists and media professionals. Officially registered in February 2024 with the First Instance Court of General Jurisdiction in Tirana, the SGPM focuses on advancing labor rights, improving salaries, and facilitating collective agreements with media employers. They aim to establish union structures within every media outlet. These priorities address critical issues of labor rights and working conditions of journalists and media workers in Albania. While the formation of this union represents a notable step in strengthening the labor rights of journalists and media workers, its long-term impact will depend on its inclusivity, commitment, and ability to deliver tangible results for its members.