The European Union has published its Progress Report on Albania, a 102-page document providing a detailed assessment of the country’s progress in implementing judicial reform, combating corruption, improving elections, and other key areas.

Regarding media freedom, the report emphasizes that “Albania remains between a moderate and limited level of preparation in the area of freedom of expression and has made only limited progress during the reporting period.”

“Albania remains between a moderate and limited level of preparation in the area of freedom of expression and has made only limited progress during the reporting period. The situation largely remains unchanged, with media independence and pluralism continuing to be affected by overlapping political and business interests, a lack of transparency in funding sources, high concentration of media ownership, intimidation, and precarious working conditions for journalists.

The initiative for a structured dialogue between Albanian institutions and media actors, as well as the adoption of soft measures for the safety of journalists, represent positive developments. However, concerns were raised regarding the legality and respect for procedures during the eviction by authorities of a media outlet from the public premises it was using,” the report states.