The regional television channel Al Jazeera Balkans, a significant media presence in the Balkan region for 14 years, announced its sudden closure on July 12th. The decision has sent shockwaves through the journalistic community, impacting more than 200 journalists and media workers across Bosnia and Herzegovina and the wider region.

Key Takeaways

  • Al Jazeera Balkans ceased operations on July 12th, with broadcasts ending permanently at the end of July.
  • Over 200 media professionals are directly affected by the closure.
  • No official reason for the shutdown has been provided by Al Jazeera’s management.
  • The closure is seen as a significant blow to media pluralism and freedom of expression in the Balkans.

Abrupt Closure and Widespread Impact

Headquartered in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Al Jazeera Balkans operated with a broad network of correspondents and offices in Serbia, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Slovenia, and Kosovo. The abrupt cessation of its operations means that over 200 jobs will be lost, raising serious concerns about the future of journalism in a region where working conditions are already deteriorating and media pluralism is under threat.

The channel, known for its investigative journalism and documentary segments, will continue broadcasting previously recorded content until its signal is permanently turned off at the end of July. The lack of a stated reason for the closure has fueled speculation and concern among media professionals and organizations.

Reactions from Media Organizations

The Bosnia Herzegovina Journalists’ Association (BHJA) expressed regret over the announcement, noting that viewers would be deprived of a credible source of information. In Croatia, the Trade Union of Croatian Journalists and the Croatian Journalists’ Association issued a joint statement, calling the decision a severe blow to the media landscape and a clear indicator of the fragility of free, professional, and independent journalism.

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Maja Sever, President of the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ), highlighted the lack of transparency and consultation surrounding the decision, stating, "No one knows the actual reason; we’re discussing how such dramatic decisions can be made overnight in that media company without any consultation or transparency."

IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger echoed these sentiments, expressing deep concern for the affected staff and emphasizing the importance of protecting workers during any media company transformation. He added, "This closure represents a serious setback for media pluralism and the public’s right to information."

Sources

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