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The Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AJK) launched the Editorial Policy Guideline at an event that brought together journalists, representatives of the media community, civil society organizations, and field experts. The publication of this guideline represents a significant step toward strengthening professional and ethical standards in journalism, providing clear guidance for editorial decision-making and responsible reporting.

The opening remarks were delivered by AJK Vice President, Naile Dema Selmani, and UNMIK representative, Nikola Gaon, who emphasized the importance of this document in ensuring a unified and professional approach to editorial processes. The guideline was presented by Naile Dema Selmani, who provided a detailed overview of its content and purpose, aimed at assisting journalists and editorial teams in their ethical and professional decision-making.

Following the presentation, a panel discussion moderated by Naile Dema Selmani took place, featuring:

• Krenare Sogojeva Dermaku – Commissioner for Information and Privacy

• Flutura Kusari – Media Law Expert

• Yll Zekaj – Legal Advisor, AGK

• Alban Zeneli – Professor at the Department of Journalism, UP

• Sandra Cvetkovic – Journalist, RFE/RL

The panelists highlighted the importance of implementing this guideline to strengthen editorial independence and ensure a more transparent and professional approach to reporting.

Media law expert Flutura Kusari praised the collaboration among journalists in drafting this document. "In their daily work, journalists face constant competition and pressure to publish news as quickly as possible. However, when it comes to important issues, they show solidarity and cooperation."

Meanwhile, legal advisor Yll Zekaj stressed the significance of the guideline, particularly for young journalists, as a practical reference to help them avoid legal issues while reporting.
"One of the main challenges they face is the phenomenon of SLAPP lawsuits, which aim to silence them through lengthy legal proceedings. Therefore, it is crucial for every journalist to be confident that they have acted in accordance with professional principles, verifying sources and ensuring their reporting is accurate and fact-based."

Commissioner for Information and Privacy, Krenare Sogojeva Dermaku, discussed the importance of respecting privacy in journalism. "Respecting privacy is an obligation for everyone, including journalists, who play a key role in informing the public but also have a responsibility to protect personal data and individual dignity." She noted that Kosovo still faces significant challenges in this field due to gaps in personal data protection and welcomed the launch of the guideline as an important step toward improvement.

Journalist Sandra Cvetkovic emphasized the relevance of this guideline in an era of widespread misinformation: "From my professional experience, I can confidently say that this document will be an extremely useful tool for journalists. At a time when disinformation and fake news spread rapidly, the need for such a guideline is greater than ever."

From an academic perspective, Professor Alban Zeneli highlighted the growing competition among media outlets in the digital sphere and the need for ethical standards.
"In the digital era, where media compete for public attention even with individuals who often operate outside ethical standards, this guideline introduces an important innovation. It provides media outlets with an opportunity to differentiate themselves and build audience trust through transparency." Moreover, he emphasized that the document could serve as a model for media organizations wishing to create their own editorial guidelines, thus contributing to the overall improvement of professional standards in Kosovo’s media environment.

The Editorial Policy Guideline has been developed in accordance with the highest international standards and local ethical codes. It is expected to serve as a practical tool for journalists and editors, helping to ensure media integrity and accountability in Kosovo. The guideline will be available on the AJK website starting in April.

AJK extends its gratitude to all journalists and professionals who contributed to its drafting. This project is supported by UNMIK – United Nations Mission in Kosovo.