On World Press Freedom Day, a day that highlights the vital importance of free and independent media in society, journalists in Kosovo continue to face numerous challenges in carrying out their work.
The most pressing concern remains an ongoing campaign by the Government of Kosovo and the ruling political party, Vetëvendosje, aimed at delegitimizing the work of journalists.
Journalists and media outlets continue to be targeted through derogatory language intended to undermine public trust in their reporting.
The Association of Journalists of Kosovo calls on the acting government, Vetëvendosje, and all political actors to respect and not obstruct the work of journalists, recognizing their essential role in the country’s democratic development.
AJK also expresses concern that the parliamentary majority, through a fast-tracked and compromised procedure, has appointed members to the boards of Radio Television of Kosovo and the Independent Media Commission. As previously warned, this has resulted in a clear tendency toward political and party control over both institutions.
AJK notes an improvement in Kosovo’s ranking in this year’s Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders. This progress is attributed to a landmark decision by the Constitutional Court of Kosovo, which declared unconstitutional the Law on the Independent Media Commission adopted by the Assembly under Vetëvendosje. Through this and similar rulings, the judicial system remains the most important guarantor of media freedom in Kosovo. This is further reflected in the adoption of a strategy by the Kosovo Judicial Council, which prioritizes cases involving journalists.
AJK calls for stricter punitive measures in cases where journalists are victims of attacks.
The association remains committed to the safety of journalists by documenting and reporting such cases, and by working closely with security and justice institutions to ensure they are addressed.
AJK also advocates for improved working conditions for journalists and media workers, encouraging them to report violations of contracts and labor law to the Labour Inspectorate of Kosovo.
Through their continued work, journalists and media in Kosovo serve the public’s right to information and play an irreplaceable role in strengthening democracy in the country.