Gozi: “Attacks on journalists in Albania demand independent investigations”

The European Democratic Party is deeply concerned by reports of violence, threats and obstruction targeting journalists covering protests in Albania. The Association of Journalists of Albania (AGSH) has published a detailed list of incidents. A 3 November investigation by BIRN reports around 50 cases since 13 October, with 41 attributed to State Police officers. Reporters Without Borders documented 28 reports of violence, intimidation or obstruction affecting at least 23 media professionals between 13 and 19 October, including at least 12 physically attacked.

The cases described by BIRN are especially alarming: Klan News reporter Glidona Daci says she was sprayed in the face while reporting live; Syri editor Julian Hoxhaj says he was kicked and dragged away by around a dozen police officers; and Citizens.al director Lorin Kadiu says a rubber bullet narrowly missed his face and a water cannon damaged his equipment.

“The accounts of journalists being struck, pushed, sprayed or prevented from working must be taken seriously. Journalists must be able to report freely and safely, especially when documenting the actions of the authorities. These allegations require prompt, impartial and independent investigations, with all relevant footage preserved and those responsible held to account,” said Sandro Gozi, Secretary General of the European Democratic Party.

The Committee to Protect Journalists and partner organisations have called for investigations; three media workers required hospital treatment after incidents on 13 October. In its separate monitoring of the 20 October protest, Albania’s Ombudsman also raised concerns about alleged police violence and called for evidence to be preserved and responsibility established.

Gozi added: “Prime Minister Edi Rama must stop intimidating or discrediting media outlets for their coverage. When journalists face violence while doing their jobs and the prime minister attacks media organisations, Albania moves further away from the European path it says it wants to follow. Respect for press freedom, accountability and the rule of law must be demonstrated in practice, not just promised during the EU accession process.”

The European Democratic Party calls on the Albanian authorities to guarantee the safety of journalists covering public demonstrations and to ensure that any investigation into alleged abuses is impartial and independent.