Albanian police actions targeting media outlets, including the closure of News 24’s premises and the seizure of equipment, have sparked widespread concern among international and local media organizations regarding press freedom and due process. The operation, linked to a property dispute, has led to protests and calls for transparency and the protection of journalists’ rights.
Media Outlets Targeted in Police Operation
On August 9, Albanian police surrounded the building housing News 24, a prominent 24-hour news channel, and other outlets under the Focus Media Group umbrella. The operation involved cutting off electricity and blocking access for staff, effectively halting broadcasts. Journalists reported that personal computers and sensitive materials were seized, raising fears about the compromise of sources and journalist security. The action was described by media unions as "arbitrary" and carried out "without prior written notice."
Concerns Over Legality and Due Process
International and local media organizations, including Reporters Without Borders, the European Federation of Journalists, and the International Press Institute, have jointly criticized the police operation. They highlighted that the actions were conducted under "unclear legal grounds and without due process." The lack of a published legal basis, judicial orders, or a clear timeline has led to serious questions about the legality and proportionality of the police intervention. The Ministry of Economy, Culture and Innovation stated that the blockade was legal and based on a court decision, claiming the media companies had not paid their rent.
Impact on Journalists and Media Freedom
The operation has significantly impacted the approximately 230 employees of Focus Media Group, with concerns raised about potential unemployment, delayed salaries, and unpaid social security contributions. Journalists have expressed that the seizure of their equipment, containing sensitive data, is "very dangerous" and could compromise their sources. The Albanian Journalists’ Association condemned the intervention as a "flagrant violation of the fundamental principles of democracy and freedom of expression."
Calls for Transparency and Resolution
Media organizations are urging Albanian authorities to provide a full public explanation for the operation, lift the police cordon, and ensure the protection of journalistic materials. They also called on Focus Media Group to safeguard its employees’ livelihoods and rights and to engage constructively with authorities to resolve the property dispute transparently. The situation is seen as raising fundamental issues of due process, proportionality, media freedom, and the protection of journalists and media workers.
Key Takeaways
- Police operation disrupted broadcasts and seized equipment from News 24 and other Focus Media Group outlets.
- Concerns raised about the legality, proportionality, and lack of due process in the police actions.
- Journalists fear for the security of their sources due to the seizure of personal devices.
- Media unions and international organizations have condemned the operation as a threat to press freedom.
- Calls made for transparency from authorities and protection of journalists’ rights and livelihoods.
Sources
- Media Unions Criticise Albanian Police Operation Targeting TV Station, Balkan Insight.
- Protests after closure of news channel premises in Tirana – DW – 08/12/2025, DW.
- Albania: Lift blockade on Focus Media Group and protect journalists’ rights, ARTICLE 19 – Defending freedom of expression and information..
