Safe Journalists and MFRR raise the alarm/ "Attacks on journalists should be condemned, their safety should be guaranteed"

2023-07-20 10:45:00, Aktualitet CNA

Safe Journalists and MFRR raise the alarm/ "Attacks on journalists should

Partners in the Safe Journalists Network (SJN) and Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR), as organizations dedicated to protecting media freedom and journalists' rights, are deeply concerned by recent events in Albania, which not only highlight a deteriorating environment for press freedom, but also pose a serious threat to the safety of journalists and their ability to inform the public.

We call on the Albanian authorities and the international community to condemn these attacks against the freedom of the press and to guarantee the safety of journalists in Albania.

The verbal attack on BIRN Albania journalist Ola Xama by the Mayor of Tirana, Erion Veliaj, in response to her investigative report on corruption, is not only unacceptable, but also undermines the structure of free speech and freedom of the press. A democratic society is built on the principles of transparency and accountability, and the Mayor's behavior creates a dangerous precedent for public discourse. It is the duty of public officials to respond to investigative reporting with professionalism and respect for journalism's role in holding government accountable, not with attacks on journalists' credibility.

The threats received by Marsi Korreshi and the TV SYRI team in Rrogozhinë during the coverage of a political event further underline the insecure situation faced by journalists in Albania. Although the police responded quickly to the incident, it is alarming that members of the media are facing threats and intimidation simply for performing their professional duties.

Finally, former Prime Minister Sali Berisha's attempt to discredit BIRN Albania, a reputable and independent media organization, poses a serious threat to media freedom in Albania. His claims, made without evidence, not only tend to undermine the credibility of an important news outlet, but may also incite further attacks against media freedom and the safety of journalists. Moreover, his actions may foster an environment where disinformation thrives, which is detrimental to the public's right to accurate and factual information.

Journalists must be able to work in an environment free of intimidation, threats and violence. We call on all public officials in Albania to act responsibly, to respect the role of the media and to refrain from personal attacks and baseless accusations against journalists.

The role of media in a democratic society is primary. The public depends on free and independent media for information, to hold government accountable and to contribute to public discourse. Therefore, any attempt to undermine the media should be seen as an attack on democracy itself. It is our collective responsibility to protect and support the freedom of the press, so we stand in solidarity with journalists in Albania./ CNA