Reporters Without Borders’ annual World Press Freedom Index indicates a general decline in media freedom across most Balkan countries. While Kosovo shows significant improvement, rising 15 places in the ranking, it remains among the lowest-ranked nations in Europe. Croatia, Romania, and Greece have also recorded gains, contrasting with the downturn seen in other countries.
Bulgaria ranks 71st in media freedom, marking a one-place drop, and is categorized as having a “problematic” media environment. Many other countries are similarly classified as “problematic,” while others are described as facing “difficult” conditions. Despite varied progress, systemic challenges persist across the region’s media landscape.
Slovenia, while maintaining the best media environment among the countries at 36th place, faces concerns regarding defamation laws and political pressure. In Montenegro, press freedom remains threatened by political interference and economic pressures. North Macedonia’s decline is attributed to widespread disinformation and a lack of professionalism eroding public trust in independent media.
Romania, though possessing a diverse media sector, struggles with a lack of transparency in funding and susceptibility to political interference in appointing public broadcasting heads. Meanwhile, Cyprus and Albania have also recorded declines, with reports noting significant external influences impacting media operations. Overall, while some countries show movement toward greater media freedom, the report highlights that political interference, economic pressure, and issues of transparency continue to undermine press freedom across numerous countries in the region.
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