Kosovo is facing a significant decline in press freedom, as highlighted by the latest report from Reporters Without Borders. The country has dropped 24 places in the World Press Freedom Index, raising concerns among journalists and media organizations about the implications for democracy and free expression.

Key Takeaways

  • Kosovo’s press freedom ranking fell from 75th to 99th in 2025.
  • The decline is attributed to political interference, gag lawsuits, and threats to journalist safety.
  • The Association of Journalists of Kosovo expressed deep concern over the government’s hostile policies towards media.

Overview of the Decline

The 2025 World Press Freedom Index reveals a troubling trend for Kosovo, which has seen its ranking plummet to 99th place, marking the most significant drop in the Balkans. This decline reflects a broader pattern of deteriorating press freedom across the region, with many countries experiencing similar setbacks.

The report indicates that while Kosovo’s media landscape is diverse, it is hampered by several factors:

  • Politicized Regulation: The recent adoption of the Law on the Independent Media Commission has raised alarms about political influence over media regulation.
  • Gag Lawsuits: Journalists face increasing threats from strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPP), which aim to silence critical reporting.
  • Safety Risks: Journalists in Kosovo are frequently targeted by political figures, leading to a climate of fear and self-censorship.

Regional Context

In the broader Balkan context, Kosovo’s decline is part of a worrying trend. Other countries in the region have also seen drops in their press freedom rankings, with only Albania, Montenegro, and Serbia showing slight improvements. The report highlights the following:

  • Croatia: Dropped from 48th to 60th due to SLAPP lawsuits against journalists.
  • Bulgaria: Fell from 59th to 70th, with press freedom described as fragile and unstable.
  • North Macedonia: Dropped from 36th to 42nd, facing issues of misinformation and government hostility towards journalists.
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Reactions from Journalists and Organizations

The Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AJK) has voiced its alarm over the latest ranking, calling it the lowest in a decade. They attribute this decline to a hostile policy environment fostered by the current government led by Vetevendosje. The AJK emphasizes that the government’s actions have created a challenging atmosphere for independent journalism.

Implications for Democracy

The decline in press freedom is not just a media issue; it poses a significant threat to democracy in Kosovo. A free and independent press is essential for holding power accountable and ensuring that citizens are informed. The current situation raises critical questions about the future of democratic governance in the country.

Conclusion

The alarming drop in Kosovo’s press freedom ranking serves as a wake-up call for both local and international stakeholders. It underscores the urgent need for reforms to protect journalists and ensure a free press, which is vital for the health of democracy in Kosovo and the region. Without immediate action, the risks to media freedom and democratic integrity will only continue to grow.

Sources

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