The Association of Journalists of Kosovo has expressed concern after the publication of the media freedom index by the international organization "Reporters without Borders", where Kosovo has marked an alarming decline. According to the 2025 report, Kosovo is ranked 99th, falling 24 places compared to the previous year.
The Chairman of the AGK, Xhemajl Rexha, in an extraordinary press conference, said that this decline represents an extraordinary alarm and a worrying situation for media freedom in the country.
"We are gathered here to express our serious concern about Kosovo's alarmingly drastic decline in the ranking of the 2025 Reporters Without Borders report. We are in 99th place, 24 places lower than last year, after Kosovo was 19 places lower 1 year ago. It is an extraordinary alarm, a shocking ranking that places Kosovo as the worst country in the Western Balkans. The report lists some of the main reasons, including the controversial IMC law, which we have opposed from the beginning, but which was approved by the majority, the continuous denigrating campaigns against journalists, especially with the well-known phrase 'enemy collaborators', which has continued throughout these months and is still developing today after the publication of this report. The interference, or lack of independence, of the public broadcaster, RTK. The safety of journalists continues to remain a problem, the increase in SLAPP lawsuits is mentioned again this year as well as the continuation of authorized of journalists."
AGK assesses that this decline is a reflection of an ongoing campaign by the Kosovo government, led by Vetëvendosje and Prime Minister Albin Kurti, against media freedom.
Asked about the reactions of Vetëvendosje Movement MPs after the publication of the report, Rexha said that synchronized attacks have been seen against the AGK and against him personally.
"Immediately after the publication of the AGK report and statement, we have seen a series of synchronized attacks on the AGK, but also on me personally, which is not new, we are used to it, but we should not get used to it. It is very dangerous to be targeted by people who are in power of the current majority by name and surname, we condemn these targetings. Vetëvendosje must address the findings. Two years ago, when the report had shown an increase, it was welcomed by the government and Vetëvendosje."
In the report published by Reporters Without Borders on May 2, on the eve of World Press Freedom Day, Kosovo ranks worse than any other country in the Western Balkans and the European Union. (A2 Televizion)
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