The SafeJournalists Network has requested that the Special Court of First Instance for Corruption and Organised Crime in Albania review its newly adopted rules on media access.
The rules entered into force on 1 September 2026 and govern accreditation, access to courtrooms, the use of electronic devices and sanctions. On 7 August the Network warned that several provisions could restrict reporting. On 31 August the court confirmed that journalists without accreditation retain access to public hearings. The Network welcomed the clarification on 4 September, while requesting a dialogue with journalists and a review of the rules after their first month in force, in particular of the accreditation requirements and of the obligation to deposit telephones and laptops.
The court adjudicates Albania's most significant corruption cases. Reporting conditions there therefore shape public scrutiny of anti-corruption reform.
More information: https://safejournalists.net/alert/safejournalists-albanias-special-court-must-revise-media-access-rules-that-may-restrict-journalists-work-and-the-publics-right-to-information/ (opens in a new tab)
https://bhnovinari.ba/en/2026/09/04/safejournalists-clarifications-are-welcome-but-special-courts-media-access-rules-in-albania-still-require-review/ (opens in a new tab)