The Council of Albanian Ambassadors expresses its concern regarding the recent developments that have led to restrictions on media freedom in Albania, taking as an example the closure of one of the country’s largest news broadcasters, News 24.
Freedom of expression and of the press are the cornerstones of any democratic society. Any attempt to silence independent and critical voices threatens not only transparency but also citizens’ trust in institutions.
The shutdown of transmitting signal for several days of News 24 raises serious questions about the state of media pluralism and freedom of speech in Albania.The Council of Albanian Ambassadors recalls that respect for European standards on media freedom is a fundamental obligation in Albania’s EU integration process. A free and independent media is a guarantor of democracy, the protection of human rights, and the rule of law.
In this regard, the BE, OSCE, the United States, as well as other diplomatic missions and international organizations present in Albania, have openly voiced their concerns, calling for full transparency, respect for the rule of law, and guarantees for the free functioning of the media. This international attention demonstrates that the issue of media freedom is not only a domestic concern but also a direct indicator of Albania’s democratic credibility on the international stage.
We call on the responsible authorities to ensure the conditions for an open, pluralistic media environment, free from any form of political or economic pressure or interference.
The Council of Albanian Ambassadors will continue to closely monitor the situation and raise its voice in defense of media freedom, as one of the fundamental pillars of democracy and Albania’s European perspective.
