OSCE media freedom representative concludes a constructive visit on promoting media freedom in Albania

TIRANA, 13 February 2018 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, concluded a two-day visit to Albania. During his visit, Désir met with Prime Minister Edi Rama, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ditmir Bushati, Chair and Deputy Chair of the Parliamentary Media Committee and media actors in the country.

The Representative and the Prime Minister discussed the importance of promoting a strong and pluralist media landscape, quality of information, respect for the independence of journalists, the protection of the economic and social status of journalists and the reform of the public service broadcaster RTSH. 

“The economic status of journalists in Albania remains one of the most pressing issues in the country. The nonexistence of working contracts and delays in the payment of salaries and social contributions entail a risk of self-censorship,” Désir said, underlining the need for the respect of journalists’ labour rights.

The Representative also met with Gentian Sala, Chair of the Audiovisual Media Authority (AMA), Thoma Gëllçi, General Director of the public service broadcaster Radio Televizioni Shqiptar (RTSH), Kristaq Traja, Chair of the Steering Board, as well as numerous media analysts and journalists to get their insights on current issues and future co-operation in their respective branches of the media scene in Albania.

“I welcome several positive developments in the RTSH in recent years, such as an editorial guidelines document, a new statute and a development strategy. However, this positive momentum should be used to fully complete the restructuring of the public service broadcaster and to overcome current challenges, including the process of digitalization,” Désir said. “Public Service broadcaster will also need strong financial support for succeeding in this transformation including training of journalists and personnel”, he added.

Concluding his trip, Désir commended the very good and constructive relationship the Albanian authorities enjoy with his Office and the OSCE Presence in Albania, offering his assistance to further support and improve the media landscape in the country.

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.