Freedom of the press in our country and the European Union! Where does the fourth power begin and where does it end? How much is the code of ethics respected today by journalists?
This was the theme discussed today in the city of Fier, in a debate with professionals and citizens, organized by the project “Municipalities for Europe” in cooperation with the EU corner and the municipality of this city, in the framework of the World Press Freedom Day.
The format of the meeting comprised lectures and talks, with the participation of several experts, such as Mrs. Dasara Dizdari from the communication team of the EU Delegation in Albania, Mrs. Monika Stafa, Mr. Urim Barjami and Mrs. Alda Bardhyli, experienced journalists in Albania.
The meeting was addressed by Ms. Ernestina Halili, Deputy Mayor of Fier Municipality, who emphasized in her speech the importance of freedom of press in the process of monitoring the work of the local government.
In her speech, Mrs. Dizdari focused on some of the findings of the latest progress report of the European Commission on the freedom of the press in Albania and the opportunities offered by the European Union for the development and support to media in the Western Balkans and our country.
Experienced journalists, Mrs. Monika Stafa, Mr. Urim Barjami and Mrs. Alda Bardhyli shared with the participants, their professional experiences in performing the journalist's role in Albania and the challenges that this profession faces.
Afterwards, the meeting evolved in the form of a discussion with local and young journalists who actively engaged in the discussion on the challenges of being a jounalist in Albania, the working conditions and the necessity of respecting international and European standards not only in the reporting process but also in the relationship with the media owners and central and local government.
Note
The International Press Freedom Day was declared by the General Assembly of the United Nations in December 1993, following the Recommendation of UNESCO General Conference. Since then, every year 3rd of May, the anniversary of Paris Declaration (held during the seminar for the promotion of independent and pluralist Asian media), is celebrated worldwide as the International Press Freedom Day. This day is a good opportunity for:
- commemorating the fundamental principles of press freedom;
- assess the state of press freedom worldwide;
- protect media from various attacks against its freedom;
- honoring journalists who have lost their lives while on duty.
