The Albanian Journalists Association (AGSH) has reacted to a lawsuit filed by businessman Dionis Teqja against 10 online media outlets, in which he is seeking the removal of published articles and total damages amounting to €680,000.
The case follows a court decision by judge Flamur Kapllani of the Court of First Instance of General Jurisdiction in Tirana, who issued a “security measure” ordering the removal of a news article related to Teqja.
In its response, the Albanian Journalists Association stated that it is closely monitoring the case and expressed concern over measures that involve blocking or removing media content. According to the Association, such actions must be handled with particular care, given their impact on journalistic work and the public’s right to information.
“The Albanian Journalists Association calls on judicial authorities to continue ensuring a fair process in line with democratic standards and European jurisprudence on media freedom,” the statement said.
The Association also raised concerns about the level of compensation being sought from journalists and media outlets, describing the figures as unjustified and as a form of pressure.
“In any case, the staggering sums requested as compensation from journalists and media, reaching up to €500,000, are entirely abusive and constitute a form of pressure,” the Association emphasized.
