| Country | AL |
| Name and Surname | Blendi Salaj |
| Gender | Male |
| Date | 05/04/2023 |
| City / Location | Tirana |
| Type of incident | Other threats to journalists |
| By whom | To journalists by citizens |
| Type of media | Radio and television print online |
| Media name | Top Channel |
| Source | https://top-channel.tv/2023/04/06/moderatori-i-wake-up-kam-marre-dy-kercenime-me-vdekje/ |
| Was journalist`s association informed | Yes |
| Were authorities informed? | Case was reported to the police |
Blendi Salaj, a highly respected journalist, recently commented on some noteworthy moments during the “Big Brother VIP2” show. Unfortunately, he has since received two threatening messages regarding his personal safety.
As a regular host on the morning show “Wake Up” on Top Channel, Salaj and his colleagues discuss the most interesting developments within Big Brother VIP2. Each morning, they dedicate approximately five minutes to discussing the latest viral moments within the house.
Regrettably, online harassment and death threats have become an all-too-common occurrence for journalists who report on matters related to the show. In reference to the recent threats he has received, Salaj stated, “I received two death threats yesterday due to comments I made during the show about a Big Brother VIP resident, whose name I prefer not to publish. These individuals were likely fans of the person in question. I am quite worried and plan to report this matter to the police promptly.”
Safe Journalists Network in Albania has seen screenshots of death threat messages sent on the social media account of Mr. Salaj from two different anonymous senders. These attacks have been reported the case to the Police.
We stand in solidarity with Mr. Salaj and condemn these cowardly acts of intimidation and online violence directed toward him. Journalists must be allowed to report on and discuss events, whether trivial or significant, without fear of retribution or violence.
We understand that the “Big Brother VIP2” show and its contestants may evoke strong emotions and opinions among viewers. However, resorting to threatening a journalist’s life over such matters is absolutely unacceptable and must not be tolerated. Online harassment has become a pervasive issue in today’s digital age, and it is our collective responsibility to address and combat this toxic behavior.
Sources:
https://top-channel.tv/2023/04/06/moderatori-i-wake-up-kam-marre-dy-kercenime-me-vdekje/
https://durreslajm.al/komentet-per-big-brother-blendi-salaj-kam-marre-dy-kercenime-me-vdekje/
