The European Union has voiced concern over Albania’s recent appointments to the board of its public broadcaster, warning that political interference threatens media independence and EU membership standards.
Albania’s parliament voted on March 17 to install a new board at the country’s public broadcaster, RTSH—naming several members with close political ties. The move has triggered backlash from media watchdogs and now, from the EU itself.
The board’s new chair, Fatjon Hoxhalli, is a longtime adviser to senior Socialist Party figures. Other board members include former government officials and political aides, raising concerns over the body’s impartiality.
RTSH is Albania’s only public broadcaster and, by law, should remain free from political influence. But critics say the latest appointments mark a serious setback.
In a statement to BIRN, the EU delegation in Tirana said it is “closely following” the case and stressed the importance of RTSH’s independence for Albania’s democratic credentials and EU path.
The EU reminded Albania of its formal commitments under accession talks, including media reforms and a pluralistic, qualified, and autonomous board at RTSH.
Brussels has long flagged political interference in media as a key concern in its annual progress reports on Albania. The latest developments appear to only deepen that worry.
