Statement by H.E. Eglantina Gjermeni, Ambassador, Permanent Representative

in response to the Report by the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Mr. Jan Braathu

Meeting 1561 of the Permanent Council, 24 April 2026, Vienna

Thank you Mr. Chair,

Albania recognizes with the importance of the work carried out by the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media and thanks the Representative Braathu for the detailed report presented today.

Freedom of expression and media freedom are essential pillars of democratic governance, accountability, and public trust. When freedom of speech is threatened, the consequences extend far beyond the media sector. It becomes harder for societies to access the truth, to challenge power, and to make informed decisions.

In this context, Albania recognizes that the environment for journalists remains deeply concerning, particularly in conflict zones worldwide, where reporting the truth has cost journalists their lives. This stark reality underscores that free and independent journalism is not only indispensable but often comes at the highest possible price.

The media landscape faces a range of challenges that are not only global in nature but also present at the national and local levels. In response, Albania has taken steps to strengthen the protection of freedom of expression and improve the climate for media freedom.

Early this year, amendments to Albania’s Criminal Code were approved, representing an important step forward in enhancing journalists’ safety and reinforcing freedom of expression.

These reforms reflect a clear political intent to move away from the criminalization of defamation, in line with European standards and as part of Albania’s European Union accession path. They recognize that public-interest reporting, carried out in good faith, should not be subject to criminal punishment.

However, legislative progress alone is not sufficient. Effective implementation, stronger institutional safeguards, and a culture that genuinely values independent journalism are equally essential. Media freedom must be protected not only by law, but also in practice.

As Chair of the OSCE Human Dimension Committee, Albania is committed to advancing dialogue and cooperation on fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression and media freedom. We are grateful to the RFoM team for their continued engagement and cooperation with the Human Dimension Committee throughout the year.

We look forward to the dedicated meeting on freedom of expression in July, working in close cooperation with the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media to support informed and coordinated discussions.

These discussions are particularly important in light of the broader challenges facing today’s media landscape, including disinformation, economic pressures on independent outlets, and the growing influence of digital platforms on the flow of information. Addressing these challenges requires sustained cooperation, transparency, and a shared commitment to democratic values.

At the same time, we recognize that the media landscape itself is not immune to challenges, including disinformation, undue influence, and risks of media capture, which can undermine public trust and the integrity of information.

In this context, Albania remains committed to actively contributing to regional dialogue and effective responses. We look forward to hosting in Tirana the upcoming South East Europe Media Conference next month, which will serve as an important platform to advance cooperation and strengthen media freedom across the region.

Thank you