OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media meets with Ambassador of Albania

On 22 February 2021, the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media (RFoM), Teresa Ribeiro, met with Ambassador Igli Hasani to discuss media freedom developments in Albania and ways in which the Representative can provide assistance.

Ribeiro welcomed assurances by Ambassador Hasani that the pending adoption of revised media laws is an important topic on the Albanian government’s agenda. She emphasized the importance of timely approval of the proposed amendments in accordance with international standards and OSCE commitments on freedom of expression and media freedom. In this respect, Ribeiro offered her Office’s assistance in support of a favourable legislative environment for the media in the country.

Among other issues discussed, Ribeiro raised her concerns over the intimidation of and attacks against journalists, which undermine their safety. They also spoke about challenges to the independence of national media regulatory bodies in Albania. She underlined the necessity to uphold the safety guarantees for journalists as prescribed in the 2018 OSCE Ministerial Council Decision on the Safety of Journalists. Ambassador Hasani highlighted the important role that journalists have played in the democratization process in Albania, and affirmed the government’s commitment in improving the protection for journalists so that they are able to perform their important work in society.

Ribeiro and Ambassador Hasani agreed to continue the good co-operation and expressed their willingness to engage in further discussions, including prospects of a visit by the RFoM to Albania.