Violence against journalists in Kosovo, the organizations react strongly, here is the strong call they have for the internationals

The current political developments in Kosovo have once again ignited an atmosphere that hinders the ability of journalists to carry out their responsibilities reliably and without hindrance.

The SafeJournalists network, together with Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR), express deep concern for a series of attacks on journalists and media personnel in the northern municipalities of Kosovo from May 26 to May 31, 2023.

During the period from May 26 to May 31, 2023, the Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AJK) and the SafeJournalists network have recorded a total of 20 incidents of assaults and attacks on journalists and media personnel in various municipalities of Kosovo.

These incidents, they say, highlight the alarming increase in violence and threats aimed at journalists, preventing them from doing their vital work safely and impartially. List of all 20 registered cases here.

The Chairman of AGK, Xhemajl Rexha, emphasizes the continuous appeals to local and international security bodies, calling on them to provide a safe perimeter where journalists can carry out their work without hindrance and fear of attack. Unfortunately, these appeals have not been heeded so far.

"SafeJournalists Network and Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR) find this situation extremely disturbing, as journalists tend to be the main targets during protests and unrest in northern Kosovo. The testimonies of our colleagues, together with the documented attacks, provide further evidence of the dangerous working conditions in Zveçan, especially the lack of adequate protective equipment.
The situation raises concerns and worries about the possibility of future, potentially more serious, attacks. The SafeJournalists network, representing over 8,200 media professionals and signatory organizations, calls on the international presence in Kosovo, responsible for ensuring stability, to prioritize the protection and well-being of journalists. We urge them to promote a safe environment that enables journalists to fulfill their professional duties without fear of violence or intimidation. Moreover, we call on all state and local officials to ensure equal treatment of all journalists in Kosovo".

The SafeJournalists network will inform relevant national and international parties of any case of attacks on journalists from May 26 to May 31, 2023. We emphasize that any attack on journalists is an attack on public interest, democracy and the rights of all citizens.

SafeJournalist Network
Association of Journalists of Kosovo
Association of Journalists of Macedonia
Association of Journalists of BiH
Association of Croatian Journalists

Media Freedom Rapid Response
European Federation of Journalists (EFJ)
European Center for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF)

ARTICLE 19 Europe
International Press Institute (IPI)
OBC Transeuropa (OBCT)
Free Press Unlimited (FPU)