A broad coalition of civil society, media freedom, and human rights organisations has expressed concern over the public targeting of Kristina Voko, Executive Director of BIRN Albania, by Albanian MP Ardit Bido following her intervention during a parliamentary hearing. The signatories argue that a legitimate contribution concerning the legal obligations of the public broadcaster was subsequently misrepresented through rhetoric portraying critical voices as linked to foreign interests and questioning ethnic identity. The organisations warn that such attacks risk undermining civil society participation, media freedom, and public debate, particularly when directed at individuals engaging in parliamentary oversight processes. They further stress that the targeting of civil society representatives, journalists, and activists can create a chilling effect on public participation and accountability, and call on institutions to uphold democratic standards, non-discrimination, and meaningful civic engagement. Read more here.
Source: National Resource Centre for Civil Society in Albania