The Journalists’ Association has reacted to the European Commission’s report, saying that this report has confirmed the government’s pressures on journalists and the media, stressing that, there, concern continues to remain the lack of progress in media freedom and expression in Kosovo.
In the AGKA communiqué, it also says that the report identifies Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti as one of the top officials using harsh language in relation to media and journalists and calls for stopping such a rhetoric.
Full communication:
European Commission Country Report Confirms Government Pressures on Journalists, Media
In the European Commission’s annual report on enlargement, concern continues to remain the lack of progress in media freedom and expression in Kosovo. The report identifies Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti as one of the top officials using harsh language in relation to the media and journalists and calls for stopping such a rhetoric.
During the reporting period, 35 cases of physical and verbal attacks or threats to journalists have been recorded, a significant decline compared to the previous year. The attacks included preventing journalists’ work by security officials, as well as the harsh accusations and language used by senior government officials (including the prime minister) against journalists and the media. Public officials must refrain from using rhetoric targeting or discredits journalists, while attacks and intimidation should be punished. A cameraman was arrested and held briefly in custody by Kosovo Police, while at least four people were detained for threatening journalists. Fear cases also included cyber harassment and the distribution of personal data, said in part of the report. The report also calls for the adoption of a new law on Kosovo Radio Television and the KPM, while the adoption of the new Kosovo Judiciary Council strategy is welcomed, giving priority to handling journalists’ cases.
The AGK views this report as a real reflection of the serious environment of the journalist in Kosovo and calls again for stopping attacks towards journalists and respecting their work in the public’s interest.
Commission recommendations from last year have been implemented in part and remain largely valid.
During the next year, Kosovo must:
→ Continues improving the capacities of prosecutorial authorities, the judiciary and law enforcement agencies for handling cases related to violence and threats against journalists and other media employees; → Build protocols and organise training for journalists’ protection and safety, including early warning mechanisms and rapid response; start a dialogue structured with media representatives; improve the working conditions of journalists and media workers, and strengthen professional reporting;
→ Appropriate a new Law for Independent Media Commission, fully in line with EU legislation (EU acquis) and European standards; review the Law on Radio Television of Kosovo, with the goal of ensuring sustainable financing, as well as providing financing in line with current law, while preserving the public broadcaster’s independence.
Source Layer: Insander