Prishtinë, 3 May 2021 –Today that the World Press Freedom Day is being marked, we bring to attention the freedom of the press and journalists’ safety, which are one of core elements of a democratic society. Freedom of the press and expression is guaranteed by the Constitution of the Republic of Kosovo and should be at the center of any debate that intends to value media pluralism and maintenance of editorial independence.

A journalist has been physically assaulted early this year, there were also threats, lynching language and journalists’ obstruction in accomplishing their daily work, who become a target due to their reporting on misdeeds in the society. This situation should be a priority for all responsible authorities in order to ensure that the perpetrators of these deeds are brought in front of justice. Impunity of such actions should not be tolerated because it encourages instigators to violate the right to information and freedom of expression.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought economic difficulties to publishing houses as well, majority of which, if not all, are totally dependent on incomes from advertising activities in order to ensure their existence, and in the current situation their financial sustainability has been put in risk.  Despite this grave situation, journalists have also been on the front lines aiming to bring new information to citizens with regard to the pandemic situation in the country.

The Ombudsperson calls upon country’s institutions to strengthen their activities in order to ensure ongoing transparency in the function of public accountability, to respect the law on access to public documents and access to information as a public good. Whereas, the security and justice system should treat with priority and solve effectively cases of attacks and threats towards journalists.