Entry into force of the new GJKKO regulation, Journalists Association: Regret and disappointment

The new regulation of the Special Court against Corruption and Organized Crime entered into force on September 1, despite objections previously expressed by journalists and media organizations.

The Association of Journalists of Albania (AGSH) has reacted by expressing regret and disappointment over the decision, while emphasizing that the requests of the journalist community for consultation before the regulation entered into force were not taken into account.

One of the main concerns raised by AGSH is related to the restriction of the use of mobile phones during court hearings, a measure that, according to journalists, directly affects the way in which court proceedings are reported.

The Association states that it recognizes the role and responsibility of the GJKKO for guaranteeing the normal conduct of hearings, but requests that these rules be in accordance with the right of the media to report and the public to be informed.

AGSH says it remains open to dialogue with the GJKKO, but warns that it will pursue the necessary avenues to oppose the regulation.

"We remain ready for cooperation and constructive dialogue, but we will use all means to attack this decision," the Association's response states.

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.