SafeJournalists Network, Partners Organizations of MFRR Platform and RSF Sent Open Letter to Head of SPAK in Albania

SafeJournalists Network, Partners Organizations of MFRR Platform and RSF Sent Open Letter to Head of SPAK in Albania
photo: canva

Safe Journalists Network, the partner organizations of the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR) and Reporters Without Borders (RSF) wrote a letter to the Head of the Special Prosecution against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) in Albania to express concerns over the recent actions taken by SPAK against journalist Elton Qyno. The decision to seize Mr. Qyno’s equipment and pressure him to reveal his sources is a matter of significant alarm for us as organizations dedicated to the protection of the rights of journalists, media freedom, and journalistic integrity. The actions taken against Mr. Qyno, including the inspection of his residence and office and the seizure of his personal and professional equipment, set a worrying precedent. Such measures will impact journalist’s rights and media freedom in Albania and beyond.

Safe Journalists Network and the partner organizations urged SPAK to reassess its approach in this case. Returning the seized equipment to Mr. Qyno and ceasing all efforts to uncover his sources would demonstrate understanding, respecting, and upholding media freedom and the protection of journalistic sources in Albania. This approach would align with the standards established by the European Court of Human Rights and other international entities dedicated to media freedom.

We appealed to SPAK to prioritize the protection of journalistic sources, which is crucial for maintaining press freedom and democratic principles. The relationship of trust between journalists, their sources, the public, and law enforcement depends heavily on the respect and upholding of these values.

 

SafeJournalists Network 

Association of Journalists of Kosovo

Association of Journalists of Macedonia

BH Journalists Association

Croatian Journalists’ Association

Independent Journalists Association of Serbia

Trade Union of Media of Montenegro

European Center for Press and Media Freedom

European Federation of Journalists

Free Press Unlimited 

International Press Institute

OBC Transeuropa

Reporters Without Borders

 

The reaction of the Special Prosecution Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) to the open letter can be found below: 

Answer of SPAK Albania to the Letter of Concern to SafeJournalists Network

Free translation Response of SPAK in English can be found below:

Answer of SPAK Albania to the Letter of Concern to SafeJournalists Network ENG