The International Press Institute (IPI) has joined media freedom and journalist organisations in calling for the full decriminalisation of defamation in Albania, stressing that recent amendments to the Criminal Code, while a positive step, fall short of European standards. Approved on 21 January by the Parliamentary Committee on Legal Affairs and Public Administration, the amendments signal an intention to move away from criminalising defamation and to improve the environment for media freedom, journalist safety, and freedom of expression. They also strengthen criminal protection against violence and serious threats targeting journalists. However, IPI and partner organisations warn that the reforms do not ensure full decriminalisation, as exemptions from criminal liability apply only to “registered and recognised” journalists and cover defamation but not insult. This partial, status-based approach raises concerns over legal certainty, unequal protection of free expression, and continued chilling effects on journalists, civil society actors, activists, and whistleblowers. Read more here.Source: IPI
