Kosovo’s press freedom has plummeted to its lowest point in over 15 years, dropping to 99th place in the 2025 Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Press Freedom Index. This marks a significant decline from 56th place in 2023 and 75th in 2024, positioning Kosovo among the worst performers in Europe and the Western Balkans .
Key Factors Behind the Decline
- Political Interference and Media Control: The appointment of a former ruling party member as director of the public broadcaster RTK has raised concerns about its independence. Additionally, the suspension of Klan Kosova’s business license in 2023, a major private media outlet, was perceived as politically motivated and an attempt to suppress opposition voices .
- Harassment and Threats Against Journalists: Journalists in Kosovo face increasing threats, including physical attacks and online harassment. In 2023, 74 incidents of threats and attacks against journalists were reported, with 30 occurring during reporting in the northern part of Kosovo .
- Weak Regulatory Oversight: The Independent Media Commission (IMC) has been criticized for its ineffectiveness and lack of independence. Reforms aimed at enhancing its autonomy have been slow, and there are concerns about the transparency of the appointment process for its members .
- Legal Challenges and SLAPPs: Despite the decriminalization of defamation, journalists continue to face Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), which are used to intimidate and silence critical reporting .
International Response and Recommendations
International organizations, including RSF and ARTICLE 19, have expressed concern over the deteriorating press freedom situation in Kosovo. They urge the government to implement reforms that ensure the independence of media regulators, protect journalists from harassment, and uphold the rule of law to safeguard press freedom .
Conclusion
Kosovo’s significant decline in press freedom is a serious setback for democracy and accountability in the region. Without urgent reforms to protect journalists and ensure media independence, Kosovo risks further erosion of its democratic institutions.
