New Media Law in Kosovo: EU-Aligned and Accountability-Focused

The Journalists Association of Kosovo criticised the draft Law on the Independent Media Commission, but the legislation aligns with EU standards, bolstering media freedom and accountability.

On Thursday, June 27, 2024, the Journalists Association of Kosovo (JAK) released a statement expressing concern over the draft Law on the Independent Media Commission (IMC). They argued that the government had drafted the law non-transparently and without consulting civil society or the media industry. However, a thorough examination reveals that this new legislation represents a significant advancement in Kosovo’s media landscape, aligning with European Union (EU) standards and providing robust mechanisms to safeguard democracy and hold power accountable.

Addressing the Concerns

Flutura Kusari, a media lawyer, criticises the draft law, arguing that it undermines media freedom and introduces procedural and substantive issues. She claims the government aims to discipline and pressure the media, viewing journalists as “enemies of the people.” Kusari’s concerns center on the perceived exclusion of civil society in the law’s drafting and the proposal to license online media, which she belie…