Literature review

This page features literature, case studies and mapping documents relevant to the regional meeting of GFMD members and partners in the wider European region on 24 May 2024

OECD Development Cooperation Principles on Relevant and Effective Support to Media and the Information Environment

On 22 March 2024, the Development Assistance Committee (DAC) of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) adopted the Development Cooperation Principles on Relevant and Effective Support to Media and the Information Environment.

The Principles are the culmination of over two years of advocacy led by the Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD) and the Center for International Media Assistance (CIMA) in cooperation with the DAC secretariat and representatives from the United Kingdom, Sweden, Switzerland, the United States, France, and others.

The Principles seek to reinvigorate international support to media and the information environment, uniting the vital role of media and journalism in development and democracy, the severity of the crises facing public interest media and information integrity, emerging initiatives to improve innovation and coordination, and growing understanding of aid and development effectiveness and the impact of assistance.

What are the six Principles?

The six Principles aspire to encourage development cooperation providers to improve the relevance and effectiveness of their support to preserve, protect, and promote public interest media and information integrity in the following ways:

1. Ensure that assistance does no harm to public interest media.

2. Increase financial and other forms of support.

3. Take a whole-of-system perspective.

4. Strengthen local leadership and ownership.

5. Improve coordination of support.

6. Invest in knowledge, research, and learning.

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OECD DAC Principles (English).pdf

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OECD DAC Principles (French).pdf

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OECD DAC Principles (Spanish).pdf

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OECD DAC Principles (Portuguese).pdf

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Business Models

Donor Strategies in a Time of Paradigm Shift (December 2023)

EU Commission

Authored by: Miroslav Tomić, Mihailo Gajić and Ardiana Gashi

Language: English

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of donor support to civil society in the Western Balkans highlighting the challenges faced by civil society organizations (CSOs) such as shrinking civic space and foreign donor dependence. It emphasizes the need for improved donor coordination and support for digital transformation in CSOs. Despite limitations in data collection the report underscores the importance of increasing grantmaking to domestic CSOs and reducing funding for governments that restrict civil society. The findings suggest a need for new funding mechanisms for CSOs given the current trends in corporate giving and the withdrawal of key international private foundations from the region.

EU Support to media in the Western Balkans (2019)

European Commission

Language: English

Document Type: Fact sheet

Censorship & Media Regulation

Media Self-Regulation in the Western Balkans and Turkey. Examples challenges and recommendations (2024)

SEENPM

Authored by: Nedim Sejdinović

Language: English

Document Type: Report

Research on the situation and problems of media self-regulation in the Western Balkan countries and Turkey leads unequivocally to the conclusion that self-regulation can significantly improve the media and the media system only in countries where there is already a relatively high and stable level of media freedom and in general public accountability. this regional overview (factsheet) we summarize findings of the country research reports on media self-regulation in Albania BiH Kosovo Montenegro North Macedonia Serbia and Turkey.

Low Priority for Ethical Issues (October 2023)

South East European Network for Professionalization of Media

Authored by: Ilda Londo

Language: English

Media self-regulation in Albania has faced challenges with effectiveness not always meeting expectations. Despite ongoing efforts and some positive examples there is no clear success story for self-regulation. Issues such as lack of transparency in media ownership competition pressure and declining concern for professional standards pose challenges. Existing codes of conduct provide a basis for ethical conduct but they are not extensively developed or applied especially in online media. The future sustainability and effectiveness of self-regulatory initiatives remain uncertain. Co-regulation is encouraged but its implementation is uncertain. The need for self-regulation in online media is urgent due to rules imposed by social networks. Business interests and market pressures hinder newsrooms' efforts to promote ethical conduct. Low public trust in institutions to demand media accountability and the need to enhance media and information literacy to strengthen positive pressure on media for self-regulation are also highlighted.

Good models limited implementation. Media self-regulation in Bosnia and Herzegovina (2023)

SEENPM

Authored by: Anida Sokol

Language: English and Bosnian

Document Type: Report

This report focuses on the question of how to strengthen self-regulatory mechanisms and increase the responsibility of journalists and editors for media content in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Limited capacities and lack of sustainability. Media self-regulation in Kosovo (2023)

SEENPM

Authored by: Florent Spahija

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

This report is primarily focused on the role of the Press Council of Kosovo and on the Code of Ethics of the Print and Online Media but it also gives an overview of the regulatory framework in Kosovo including the work of the Independent Media Commission.

Weak Mechanisms and Outdated Code of Ethics. Media self-regulation in Montenegro (2023)

SEENPM

Authored by: Milica Bogdanović

Language: English and Montenegrin

Document Type: Report

The report reviews the content of ethics documents and examines the need to improve the Journalistic Code of Montenegro in light of the challenges in the digital environment faced by the media. In addition, the report aims at determining the structure and functioning of self-regulatory bodies in Montenegro and examine whether these mechanisms can adequately contribute to the fight against hate speech propaganda and misinformation.

Imperative of Boosting Capacities and Reinforcing Effectiveness. Media self-regulation in North Macedonia (2023)

SEENPM

Authored by: Marina Tuneva and Vesna Nikodinoska

Language: English and Macedonian

Document Type: Report

This analysis explores the capacity of self-regulatory mechanisms to promote ethical standards and to effectively respond to growing challenges especially in the digital environment as well as to promote media literacy.

High Professionalism with Limited Reach. Media self-regulation in Serbia (2023)

SEENPM

Authored by: Milica Janjatović Jovanović

Language: English and Serbian

Document Type: Report

The general regulatory framework for media in Serbia is divided into two highly polarised branches – regulation and self-regulation. The findings of this research show that the regulatory body which has the capacity and authority to conduct regular monitoring and impose penalties on unprofessional media does not utilise these powers. At the same time decisions made by the self-regulatory body which conducts regular monitoring and records violations of the Serbian Journalists’ Code of Ethics are not binding and a large number of print and online media in Serbia do not adhere to them. The biggest challenges faced by the Press Council are project funding sources and threats to the members of the Complaints Commission. As a recommendation of this research an additional funding model for the Press Council was defined where funds would come from membership fees from all media outlets that recognise the Council’s jurisdiction.

Impact online media regulation on Albania's EU accession bid (2021)

Civil Rights Defenders

Authored by: Elida Jata, Kejsi Gaxha and Renis Meta

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Policy Paper

The purpose of this policy paper is to highlight different policy options of online media regulation and their possible impact on the freedom of the media in Albania and on its EU integration process. Moreover this paper aims to highlight the importance of the freedom of speech in the light of Albania’s EU accession process.

Guidelines for Ethical Reporting for Online Media (Application of the Code of Journalists in the online sphere) (2021)

Media Council for Self-Regulation (MSS)

Language: English and Montenegrin

Document Type: Guidelines

The guidelines encompass among others an analysis of the local and international legislative framework addressing journalistic due diligence the solutions and mechanisms of the EU Members States and the Council of Europe Members States regarding the issue and the examples from the practice of each of the self-regulatory mechanisms conducting the research. Drawing on the research the working group gathered concrete recommendations for journalists regarding how to act with journalistic due diligence.

Media self-regulation in South East Europe. Guide to the best practices in the digital age (2019)

UNESCO

Language: English

Document Type: Guide

European Co-Regulation Practices in the Media: Comparative analysis and recommendations with a focus on the situation in Serbia (2017)

Council of Europe

Authored by: Jean-François Furnémont § Tanja Kerševan Smokvina

Language: English

Document Type: Study

This study commissioned by the Council of Europe at the request of Serbia's Regulatory Authority of Electronic Media (REM) aims to analyse European best practices in self- and co-regulation and provide recommendations for implementing such schemes in Serbia. The study authored by Jean-François Furnémont and Tanja Kerševan Smokvina covers various aspects including policy background key concepts traditional areas of implementation conditions for effectiveness case studies from EU countries and recommendations for Serbia. It concludes that while there is no typical European model of co-regulation Serbia could consider implementing such systems in areas like the protection of minors and basic professional standards in media. However any implementation should guard against political interference and ensure public and industry endorsement.

Media Regulatory Framework and the Online Media – The Macedonian Case (2017)

Council of Europe

Authored by: Jean-François Furnémont

Language: English

Document Type: Study

This study commissioned by the Council of Europe at the request of Macedonia's media regulatory authority (Agency for Audio and Audiovisual Media Services - AAAMS) has two main objectives. Firstly to analyse if audiovisual media regulation in the EU goes beyond its normal scope and if so how it affects media outlets falling under this extended scope. Secondly to provide recommendations for potential amendments to Macedonia's regulatory framework based on practices in the EU Council of Europe standards and existing definitions in Macedonian law. The study examines definitions of terms like "online media" and "website" used in EU laws as well as terms such as "electronic publication" and "internet portal" in Macedonian laws. It also discusses concerns raised by international organizations and NGOs about potential overregulation of media in Macedonia leading to the adoption of separate laws for different types of media in 2013 and amendments in 2014 to exclude "electronic publications" from regulation. The study highlights a debate about the scope of media regulation resurfacing in 2016 with the Electoral Code which imposes obligations on audiovisual media service providers and "internet portals" regarding election campaign coverage. The AAAMS expressed difficulties in fulfilling these obligations due to the lack of clear definitions for "internet portals.

Report on Self-Censorship in the Albanian Media (2015)

BIRN

Authored by: Adela Halo, Dorarta Hyseni, Dorian Matlija, Theodoros Alexandridis

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

This report provides a comprehensive overview of self-censorship in the Albanian media exploring its roots causes and manifestations based on the perspectives of media professionals. It aims to raise awareness about self-censorship's impact on freedom of expression and the quality of journalism offering recommendations to combat it. The study uses a mixed methodology including a review of international literature existing studies on self-censorship in Albania questionnaires completed by 121 journalists and editors and in-depth interviews with 22 media professionals. The findings highlight external and internal pressures influencing self-censorship challenges faced by media professionals and the pervasiveness of self-censorship in the Albanian media. Despite positive developments in the media landscape such as pluralism and legal improvements self-censorship remains a significant issue driven by political and economic pressures financial constraints and lack of professionalism. The report concludes with recommendations to address these challenges and promote independent and objective journalism in Albania.

Professional journalism and self-regulation. New media old dilemmas in South East Europe and Turkey (2011)

UNESCO

Authored by: AA VV

Language: English

Document Type: Study

This publication examines the implementation of media accountability systems in South East Europe and Turkey created and followed by media professionals on voluntary basis.

Data Protection and Privacy

BIRN Albania Publishes Policy Brief on Data Processing for Journalists (2023)

BIRN Albania

Authored by: Emirjon Marku

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

This report discusses the complex relationship between journalism data protection and privacy rights. It acknowledges journalism's need for personal information for reporting while recognizing citizens' rights to data protection and privacy. Both freedom of expression and the right to data protection and privacy are constitutional imperatives in Albania and under the European Convention on Human Rights. The document aims to guide journalists editors and media directors in understanding the balance between these rights providing insights into legal developments including GDPR in the EU and ethical considerations. However, it does not offer exhaustive solutions for achieving legal compliance in this context.

Digital Media

Mapping of Actors: Identification of Potential Cooperation Partners for Media Outlets in the Western Balkans (2023)

European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development

Authored by: Amra Kapo

Language: English

Document Type: Study

The study part of the SustainMedia project analyses the digital media landscape in the Western Balkans aiming to enhance media freedom and pluralism. It explores collaboration opportunities between 66 media outlets and startups/IT sectors mapping the ecosystem and suggesting ways to improve digital presence. It addresses challenges like market underdevelopment and financial constraints proposing joint content creation distribution and product partnerships to boost performance and adaptability.

Report: From Cures to Curses Digital Rights During Pandemic (2020)

BIRN

Authored by: Marija Ristic and Sofija Todorovic

Language: English

Document Type: Report

Between January 26 and May 26, 2020, the coronavirus pandemic in Central and Southeastern Europe led to 163 digital rights breaches uncovered by BIRN and SHARE Foundation. These incidents primarily occurred in Hungary Bosnia and Herzegovina Croatia Serbia Romania and North Macedonia. Among these breaches 68 cases involved manipulations in the digital environment and 25 were related to publishing falsehoods and unverified information to harm individuals' reputations. The monitoring found that over half of the violations were connected to propaganda disinformation falsehoods and the dissemination of unverified information. Furthermore, citizens were the victims in nearly 80 percent of these cases.

The Independence and Functioning of the Regulatory Authority for Electronic Media in Serbia (2017)

Council of Europe

Authored by: Kristina Irion, Michele Ledger, Sara Svensson and Nevena Rsumovic

Language: English

Document Type: Study

This study assesses the Regulatory Authority for Electronic Media (REM) of Serbia using the INDIREG methodology commissioned by the Council of Europe within the JUFREX project. Established in 2014 REM operates in a challenging media environment lacking optimal support from parliament and facing challenges with the Ministry of Culture and Information. Despite its formal establishment REM is perceived by many stakeholders as lacking enforcement and public credibility often resorting to overly formalistic activities. The INDIREG methodology evaluates REM's independence based on five dimensions: Status and powers, financial autonomy, Autonomy of decision-makers, Knowledge and transparency, and Accountability. The study proceeds in three steps: gathering data on REM's independence applying the INDIREG Ranking Tool and deriving attention points for contextual interpretation. The study aims to provide policy recommendations to improve REM's effectiveness in regulating Serbia's electronic and audiovisual media.

Disinformation and Misinformation

BIRN Albania Publishes Report on False News on Russia’s Aggression in Ukraine (2023)

BIRN Albania

Authored by: Kristina Voko, Besar Likmeta

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

The report discusses the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, leading to a major escalation of the Russian-Ukrainian war and resulting in tens of thousands of deaths and millions of refugees. It also highlights the information war accompanying the conflict with a wave of disinformation spread through media channels and social media platforms. To map the spread of disinformation in Albania the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network researched false news articles and decontextualized photos and videos related to the invasion in Albanian language media outlets in Albania Kosovo North Macedonia and the Albanian diaspora. The research found that false news on Ukraine has proliferated in Albanian language media outlets mainly generated abroad and distributed on social media platforms then translated and republished by local media outlets for commercial reasons. Weak editorial structures in Albanian media especially in start-up digital native media outlets contribute to the high rate of false news narratives being translated and republished.

BIRN Albania Publishes Report on Russian Disinformation (2023)

BIRN Albania

Authored by: Kristina Voko, Besar Likmeta

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

This report discusses the challenge of Russian disinformation in Europe and candidate countries like Albania. It notes that Russian-backed influence campaigns have targeted democratic processes elections and the COVID-19 pandemic. While the EU has taken steps to combat disinformation Albania is still catching up. Russian state-sponsored media outlets like RT and Sputnik are identified as major sources of disinformation but they do not have publications in Albanian. Nonetheless Russian narratives can still reach Albanian audiences through other means.

Freedom and access to information

Iran's propaganda in Albanian language (2023)

BIRN

Authored by: Blerjana Bino, Besar Likmeta

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

This eport discusses Iran's influence in the Western Balkans particularly in Albania highlighting the country's use of proxies intelligence operations and support for opposition groups in the region. Iran's diplomatic relationship with Albania established in 1999 has been complex with tensions rising after Albania accused Iran of launching a cyberattack on its digital infrastructure in 2022. The attack allegedly conducted by Iran-affiliated groups aimed to disrupt public services and seize control of government communications. Albania's hosting of the Mujahedeen El-Khalq (MEK) an Iranian opposition group has further strained relations potentially impacting wider geopolitical negotiations. Examining Iran's public diplomacy in Albania through state-sponsored media outlets is crucial given the role of information warfare in modern geopolitics. Understanding Iran's messaging is essential for grasping its influence and intentions in the region.

Western Balkans Have Yet to Embrace Freedom of Information (2019)

BIRN

Authored by: BIRN

Language: English, Serbian and Albanian

Document Type: Report

The report focuses on governmental transparency and accountability in the Balkans particularly regarding access to public documents mostly by journalists. It highlights a trend of deteriorating media freedom and the challenging environment for journalists in the region. Despite being a priority reform area in the EU accession agenda for Western Balkan countries media freedom remains limited with systemic shortcomings requiring sustained efforts. The report cites instances of threats to media workers and surveillance indicating a challenging environment for journalism. The situation was deemed particularly concerning in Serbia with growing authoritarianism highlighted as a key issue. Corruption and organised crime are also significant challenges with limited capacities and security concerns constraining media reporting on these issues. Overall the report paints a picture of ongoing challenges to media freedom and governance in the Balkans with some countries showing slight improvements but others experiencing declines.

Freedom of Expression and Press Freedom

Towards co-regulation of harmful content online in Bosnia and Herzegovina: A Study of European standards and co-regulatory practices for combating harmful content online (2024)

Council of Europe

Authored by: Deirdre Kevin and Asja Rokša- Zubčević

Language: English and B/H/S

Document Type: Study

The purpose of this study was to provide an assessment of the existing legal and regulatory framework and approaches relative to harmful content online in Bosnia and Herzegovina and to recommend concrete steps and measures for enhancing the current approach with a particular focus on possibilities and modalities of establishing a functioning and comprehensive implementation mechanism based on co-regulation and cooperation.

Mapping of International standards and monitoring and reporting obligations of Bosnia and Herzegovina on freedom of expression and information (2023)

COE/MInistry for Human Rights and Refugees of BiH

Authored by: Henry Lovat

Language: English and B/H/S

Document Type: Technical paper

State monitoring and reporting are core international human rights obligations. The inclusion of such obligations in international human rights instruments and mechanisms reflects a widespread understanding that gathering analysing and enabling scrutiny of states’ compliance with their substantive human rights obligations is central to enhancing the protection and realisation of these rights. The main objective of this technical paper is to analyse the state institutions to collect monitor and analyse the effectiveness of such monitoring and reporting.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: Media freedom in survival mode (2023)

Media Freedom Rapid Response

Language: English

Document Type: Report

The report warns that media freedom in the country is in decline against a backdrop of new restrictive laws hostile rhetoric and denigration of journalists by public officials and ongoing systemic challenges to the independence of public service media.

Media Freedom in North Macedonia: Fragile Progress

Authored by: Association of Journalists of Macedonia

Language: English

Document Type: Report

This report presents the findings and recommendations stemming from an international fact-finding mission to North Macedonia from 5 to 7 June 2023, organised by the Association of Journalists of Macedonia. A fact-finding mission of representatives of five leading European press freedom organisations visited the country, meeting with the most relevant policymakers in Skopje to assess the persistent problems of the media sector.

Content Moderation and Local Stakeholders in Bosnia and Herzegovina (2022)

Article 19

Authored by: Bojana Kostić

Language: English and B/H/S

Document Type: Research

This report explores the local-specific contextual concerns stemming from global non-transparent and profit-driven content moderation processes of social media. The report analyses what happens when certain local communities and countries are ‘invisible’ to social media platforms and illustrates how cross-sectoral collaboration in the form of a coalition for freedom of expression and content moderation could help these communities engage with social media platforms and have a voice in content moderation cases that impact their society.

Regulation of Harmful Content Online in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Between Freedom of Expression and harms to democracy (2022)

Mediacentar Sarajevo

Authored by: Anida Sokol and Maja Ćalović

Language: English and B/H/S

Document Type: Research

The study gives an overview of types of harmful content and their main target groups and presents the legislative regulatory and self-regulatory frameworks against harmful content online in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The study also looks at the obstacles in implementing the available frameworks in Bosnia and Herzegovina and their alignment with international standards and provides recommendations for their improvement.

BIRN Albania Publishes Report on Internet Governance (2020)

BIRN Albania

Authored by: Ermal Nazifi and Michael J. Oghia

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

The report "Internet Governance in Albania and its Role in Media Freedom" examines the intersection of internet governance and media freedom in Albania. It is part of a project funded by the European Commission and implemented by the Albanian Media Institute and the International Federation of Journalists. The report aims to provide an overview of the legal landscape for online media and content providers in Albania and explore the issues where internet governance and media development overlap. It highlights concerns about the deterioration of the media environment in Albania including restrictions on journalists' access and government attempts to control the media narrative. The report also discusses the impact of social media on journalism and the challenges journalists face such as defamation lawsuits and smear campaigns. It concludes by emphasizing the importance of balancing internet governance regulations with freedom of expression to protect media freedom in the country.

Supporting freedom of expression in South-East Europe (2019)

Council of Europe

Authored by: Mirjana Lazarova Trajkovska

Language: English

Document Type:

The "Reinforcing Judicial Expertise on Freedom of Expression and the Media in South-East Europe (JUFREX)" program jointly conducted by the Council of Europe and the European Union aims to enhance freedom of expression and media freedom in Southeast Europe. It focuses on training judges, prosecutors, lawyers and media actors as well as supporting media regulatory bodies. The program is implemented in Albania Bosnia and Herzegovina Montenegro Serbia North Macedonia and Kosovo with the goal of aligning practices with Council of Europe standards. The main beneficiaries include judicial academies bar associations media regulatory authorities' associations of journalists and press councils.

Innovation

Balkan Media Assistance Program: A case study in locally led development (October 2023)

Internews

Authored by: Internews

Language: English

Document Type: Case study

The Balkans region faces challenges to press freedom with journalists encountering political polarization and threats from criminal groups. Political-economic interests control much of the media sector limiting competition and public access to objective reporting. USAID's Balkan Media Assistance Program (BMAP) aimed to address these issues by empowering local media enhancing professionalism and promoting sustainable practices. Through BMAP media partners saw significant increases in advertising revenue and audience size. The program also facilitated collaborations digital security improvements and regional partnerships fostering a more resilient and impactful media sector in the Balkans.

Fact Sheet on BMAP Forward (July 2022)

USAID

Authored by: USAID

Language: English

Document Type:

The media sector in the Western Balkans faces challenges despite some progress with Freedom House classifying countries in the region as "partly free" and in "transitional or hybrid regimes." The region's political crises compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic and economic downturn have been worsened by propaganda and disinformation campaigns. USAID aims to strengthen independent media in North Macedonia by enhancing accountability countering corruption and building on the success of the Balkan Media Assistance Program (BMAP). The new program BMAP FORWARD will provide targeted training mentoring and funding to improve business management and digital content quality. It will also fund events to facilitate partnerships and networks across sectors. The expected results include expanded online audiences increased use of innovative media formats improved digital safety and decreased donor dependency for media outlets in the region.

United by Challenge: Regional Opportunities to Drive Media Reform in Southeast Europe (2021)

Center for Media International Assistance

Authored by: Sanela Hodžić and Brankica Petković

Language: English

Document Type: Report

This report assesses the opportunities and roadblocks to cross-border cooperation for media development and reform in Southeast Europe. It also makes recommendations for the road ahead. Since 2015 CIMA has worked with Deutsche Welle Akademie and other partners to host consultative multistakeholder regional dialogues motivated by one essential question: How can cross-border networks work together most effectively to address the myriad challenges threatening independent journalism? Building on previous work in Latin America (2015) Southeast Asia (2016) sub-Saharan Africa (2017) West Africa (2019) the Middle East and North Africa (2019) and Southern Africa (2021) this report examines the opportunities and roadblocks to coalition-building for media reform in this important European region that throughout history has had enormous consequences for peace and stability far beyond its borders.

Media Education

Assessment of media sector needs in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Report on a Public Opinion Survey about Media Sector Needs in Bosnia and Herzegovina (2022)

OSCE

Language: English

Document Type: Report/Survey

The media sector in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) is facing numerous obstacles. The sector is characterized by a large number of media outlets continuous marketing income decrease and political pressure on editorial policy and media freedoms. There are three public broadcasting services around 100 TV stations 150 radio stations 8 news agencies and 8 daily newspapers as well as numerous online media that compete for income in a modest media market. In addition to this the COVID-19 pandemic has had a strong adverse impact on the media sector in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The media suffered a sharp advertising income decline and some were forced to fire journalists and other media professionals. In spite of a better epidemiological situation and income generated in 2021 the media are still facing financial consequences and journalists are still inadequately paid.

Guide for professional reporting on violent extremism and terrorism (2021)

Council of Media Ethics in Macedonia

Authored by: Marina Tuneva

Language: Macedonian

Document Type: Guidelines

The guide aims at upgrading the ethical framework and ethical standards in reporting on violent extremism and terrorism.

Media Reporting on Organised Crime and Corruption in Bosnia Kosovo and Serbia (2017)

BIRN

Authored by: BIRN

Language: English

Document Type: Study

The study conducted by BIRN in 2017 examined media reporting on organized crime and corruption in Bosnia and Herzegovina Kosovo and Serbia. It found that external pressures whether from political business or criminal circles significantly influence how the media cover these issues. In Serbia media reporting is widely seen as manipulated by the ruling elite to maintain power attacking opponents and influencing legal outcomes. Bosnia also experiences media instrumentalization with different political factions using media for their agendas. Kosovo faces similar pressures but without clear evidence of widespread media manipulation. Instead, the focus is on suppressing damaging reports about politicians and businessmen. The study highlights how these external pressures shape media narratives and impact the public's understanding of these issues.

Reporting Corruption on Broadcast and Print Media: The Case of Albania (2014)

BIRN

Authored by: Alba Cela, Gjergj Erebara

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

The United Nations Convention against Corruption emphasizes the detrimental impact of corruption particularly in developing countries like Albania. Despite efforts to combat corruption and progress in legal and institutional frameworks it remains pervasive affecting all levels of society. High levels of perceived corruption persist among Albanians with many reporting solicitations for bribes or engagement in corrupt practices. This has led to low confidence in anti-corruption measures and institutions. Albania and Kosovo rank as the most corrupt countries in the Western Balkans with few high-profile corruption cases resulting in convictions contributing to a sense of impunity and eroding public trust in the government and judiciary.

Media Inclusion

BIRN Albania Publishes Report on Women’s Representation in the Digital Media (2023)

BIRN Albania

Authored by: Bylyre Serjanaj, Izela Tahsini, Kristina Voko, Besar Likmeta

Language: English and Albanian

Document Type: Report

This report discusses the impact of the Internet and social media on gender stereotypes particularly towards women in the public sphere. It highlights how online platforms can reinforce harmful gender stereotypes and bias affecting women's professional careers especially in politics. Despite quota systems in politics women remain underrepresented in leadership positions in Albania. Previous research has shown a gender bias in media coverage of women candidates with many facing slander and fake news. The coverage of women in the 2023 local elections in Albania mirrored previous trends with fewer opportunities for promotion and less focus on professional achievements. Overall the challenges women political candidates face in media representation and online abuse can discourage their political ambitions and participation in the political sphere limiting their chances of holding decision-making positions.

Media Literacy

Balkan Voices 2, a project to strengthen information and media literacy in the Western Balkans (2024)

CFI

Authored by: Charlotte Morel

Language: English

Document Type:

Canal France International (CFI) has launched the Balkan Voices 2 project to address the rise of disinformation in the Balkans exacerbated by recent events. The project focusing on media literacy targets young people in Albania Kosovo North Macedonia Bosnia and Herzegovina Serbia and Montenegro. Building on the success of its predecessor Balkan Voices CFI's initiative includes workshops training courses and content creation activities aimed at enhancing media literacy among future journalists. The project also emphasizes fact-checking gender and environmental awareness and the creation of independent content. Through these efforts CFI aims to combat disinformation and promote responsible media use in the region.

Mobilization for Protecting the Public Interest in the Media: Mapping Good Practices of Media Activism (2024)

Mediacentar Sarajevo and Peace Institute

Authored by: Mediacentar Sarajevo and Peace Institute

Language: English

Document Type: Report

The report “Mobilization for Protecting the Public Interest in the Media” starts from the notion that media performance and media reforms will be determining the course of history, and that mapping good practices will help us envisage media activism that can enable the prevalence of public interest values in journalism, media, and communication in these times of crisis. The report seeks to present good examples of media activism, including those that were successful in bringing changes of media policies and practices, but also those successful in reframing public policies and raising public awareness, harnessing wider support, involving novel topics or types of actions, or successful only insomuch as they exist as a challenge to existing policies and practices.

Media and Information Literacy in Albania, Croatia and Serbia (2023)

Media Diversity Institute Western Balkans

Authored by: Dorentina Hysa, Aleksandar Đokić, Lucija Marčec. Ivona Malbašić, Stefan Janjić

Language: English

Document Type:

Media and Information Literacy (MIL) has become increasingly important in light of global developments such as the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions which have fueled the spread of misinformation. Albania Croatia and Serbia face challenges in MIL with low rankings in media literacy and freedom. Research conducted by the Albania Media Institute Fade In and Media Diversity Institute Western Balkans aimed to assess the state of MIL in these countries from 2020 to 2023 revealing a lack of national strategies and policies prioritizing MIL in education.

Guidelines for the development of Media and Information Literacy in Bosnia and Herzegovina (2022)

Council of Europe

Authored by: Paolo Celot

Language: English

Document Type: Study

This document identifies principles and defines guidelines to prepare a media information literacy (MIL) programme and its implementation in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH).

Strategy on Media and Information Literacy in the Sarajevo Canton (2022)

Canton Sarajevo

Language: B/H/S

Document Type: Policy Document

In 2021, based on the developed background documents the project supported the drafting of a specific document for the canton-level government in Sarajevo - the Strategy on Media and Information Literacy in Canton Sarajevo. This document was developed by a working group composed of 10 members including the members of the project partner’s team. The document was adopted in April 2022 by the Ministry for Science High-education and Youth in Canton Sarajevo and in June 2022 by the Ministry of Education of Sarajevo Canton and it represents the first MIL strategic document in the canton.

Co-financing of media that violate ethical standards 2019-2021 (2022)

Press council of Serbia

Authored by: Petar Radosavljev, Nevena Krivokapić Martinović and Bojan Perkov

Language: Serbian

Document Type: Research

The research examines the extent to which the local self-governments in Serbia take into account the profiles of the competing media and their respect for professional and ethical standards of journalism when making decisions on the co-financing of media projects in local competitions. The objective was to understand whether decision-makers primarily members of commissions and competent bodies of local self-governments defend the public interest and citizens' right to access quality information when allocating public funding in competitions for the co-financing of media projects.

Regional Cooperation to Strengthen Independent Media in Southeast Europe Recommendations from a Consultative Process (2021)

CIMA/NED

Authored by: Anida Soko

Language: English

Document Type: Report

The media sectors in Southeast Europe face significant challenges including oversaturation political and business influence and financial pressures leading to low-quality journalism. Journalists often face threats and attacks and the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the situation. Despite these challenges the region has a strong tradition of advocacy for media reforms and independent media. Recent efforts have focused on advancing media and information literacy (MIL) and improving media ownership transparency. However there is a need for greater regional cooperation to address these issues effectively. Recommendations include providing urgent financial and legal support for journalists and media outlets improving transparency in media ownership and financing and building a regional advocacy network. These efforts aim to ensure that media assistance is responsive to local needs and supports media freedom and independence in the region.

Digital Media Literacy basics. Information and disinformation in the context of Bosnia and Herzegovina (2021)

Council of Europe

Authored by: Martina Chapman, Ricardo Castellini da Silva and Ioana Avadani

Language: English and B/H/S

Document Type: Study

This study explores how the development of basic Digital Media Literacy skills can help empowering citizens to make informed choices about the content they consume share and create – and by extension help to counter the issue of Disinformation in the Digital Age. It provides practical guidance on how to communicate the principles that underpin Digital Media Literacy – such as the development of critical thinking skills.

Media and Information Literacy in the Western Balkans: Unrealized Emancipatory Potential (2019)

European Union

Authored by: Brankica Petković, Sandra Bašić Hrvatin, Ilda Londo, Sanela Hodžić, Vesna Nikodinoska, Slavčo Milenkovski, Pavle Pavlović, Dubravka Valić, Nedeljković Milica, Janjatović Jovanović

Language: English

Document Type: Report

The South East European Network for Professionalisation of Media (SEENPM) has spent nearly two decades working to improve media in South East Europe for democratic purposes. Through various initiatives including training promoting ethics and self-regulation and advocating for media integrity SEENPM has aimed to strengthen public service values in media and journalism. This book part of a regional project supported by the EU focuses on advancing media and information literacy (MIL) in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia. It discusses the current state of MIL policies and practices in these countries and emphasizes the need for comprehensive policies and institutional frameworks for MIL development. Despite some positive developments MIL is not a political priority in the region remaining primarily a concern for civil society and international organizations. The regional project seeks to elevate MIL on the political agenda support grassroots efforts and foster cooperation among various sectors to promote a systemic approach to MIL.

Media Pluralism

Application of the Media Pluralism Monitor in the European Union - Albania, Montenegro, Republic of North Macedonia, Serbia & Turkey in the year 2022. Country report: Croatia (2023)

European University Institute

Authored by: Bilic Pasko and Valecic Monika

Language: English

Document Type: Report

This report presents the results of the implementation of the Media Pluralism Monitor for the year 2022 (MPM2023) in Croatia. The MPM is a holistic tool geared at assessing the risks to media pluralism in EU member states and selected candidate countries (32 European countries in total including Albania Montenegro the Republic of North Macedonia Serbia and Turkey). The MPM takes into account legal political and economic variables that are relevant to analysing the levels of plurality of media systems in a democratic society. The Media Pluralism Monitor has been implemented on a regular basis by the Centre for Media Pluralism and Media Freedom since 2013/2014.

Monitoring media pluralism in the digital era. Application of media pluralism monitor in the European Union - Albania, Montenegro, the Republic of North Macedonia, Serbia and Turkey in the Year 2022. (2023)

European University Institute

Authored by: Irina Milutinovic

Language: English

Document Type: Research

This report presents the results and the methodology of the Media Pluralism Monitor 2023 based on its implementation in 32 countries (27 EU member states and 5 candidate countries) for the year 2022. The Media Pluralism Monitor (MPM) is a tool that is geared to assessing the risks to media pluralism in both EU member states and in candidate countries. Since 2013/2014 it has been implemented on a regular basis by the Centre for Media Pluralism and Media Freedom and on a yearly basis since 2020. This tool is based on a holistic perspective taking into account the legal political and economic variables that are relevant in analysing the levels of plurality in media systems in a democratic society.

Media Support

EU Support to Media in the Western Balkans (October 2019)

EU Commission

Authored by: EU Commission

Language: English

Document Type: Report

The EU is funding several projects in the Western Balkans to support media development and freedom of expression. These projects focus on sustainable funding for Public Service Media building trust in media reinforcing judicial expertise providing direct support to media initiatives and improving journalism quality and professionalism. The EU has allocated approximately €11.5 million for regional initiatives and around €8.2 million for specific projects in countries like Albania Bosnia and Herzegovina Kosovo and North Macedonia aiming to strengthen media freedom and independent journalism in the region.

The Donor Landscape of Media Support in Ukraine

Authored by: Lviv Media Forum

Language: English

Document Type: Report

The Lviv Media Forum research team has conducted this study to understand how the so-called media donor landscape works in Ukraine. The term “donor landscape" implies the space for interaction that arises in the conditions of cooperation between international donor organisations and the media, which receive grants to be spent on their work.

Public Media Funding

Analiza Financiranja Lokalnih Media Javnim Novcem (2022)

Hrvatsko novinarsko društvo Sindikat novinara Hrvatske

Authored by: Melisa Skender

Language: Croatian

Document Type: Analysis

The analysis of funding local media with public money underscores the need to support media in the public interest given the serious consequences of leaving the media sector solely to market regulation. With the emergence of large technological companies dominating advertising budgets and audience attention investing in quality journalism is crucial. However non-transparent funding poses risks such as influencing editorial policies. Research on media funding from the budget in Croatia shows that current mechanisms for protecting media independence have failed. Funding is often allocated based on discretionary decisions of local leaders lacking clear criteria.