
The Journalists' Association of Albania has expressed regret and disappointment over the entry into force of the new GJKKO regulation in disregard of all previous reactions from journalists and media organizations.
According to the Association, the dialogue, which was requested before the regulation came into force, is still welcome, but the decision of the Special Court will be attacked by any means.
AGSH says it appreciates the role and responsibility of the GJKKO, but there must be harmonization with the media's right to report and inform the public.
Full statement:
The Journalists' Association of Albania (AGSH) expresses its regret and disappointment that, as of today, September 1, the new Regulation of the Special Court against Corruption and Organized Crime (SCOC) has entered into force, despite the concerns and recommendations previously raised by the journalist community and local and international media organizations.
AGSH had requested that a consultation process be conducted with journalists and media representative organizations before the Regulation entered into force, especially on provisions that directly affect the work of reporters, including the restriction of the use of mobile phones during court hearings.
We appreciate the role and responsibility of the GJKKO in guaranteeing the smooth conduct of judicial processes, but we believe that this objective can and should be harmonized with the right of the media to report and the right of the public to be informed.
We remain ready for cooperation and constructive dialogue, but we will use all means to attack this decision.