The rise in media outlets across the Western Balkans suggests increased pluralism but is marred by growing ownership by influential business figures. An increasing number of media outlets in the Balkan region are being acquired and controlled by wealthy tycoons, which is having a significant impact on editorial policies, leading to increased problems with censorship and self-censorship. Journalists report interference to protect economic and political interests, leading to censorship in countries like Albania, Kosovo, Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia. Economic dependence on owners hampers journalistic independence, and without systemic reforms, press freedom and public access to independent news will remain limited. Read more here.
Source: OBCT
