TIRANA, Nov 11 /ATA/ Consultations on amendments to the new Criminal Code continued today at the Ministry of Justice, with representatives of media associations.
The meeting was attended by the Minister of Justice, Mr. Besfort Lamallari; the Chairperson of the Audiovisual Media Authority, Ms. Armela Krasniqi; the Dean of the Faculty of History and Philology, Mr. Mark Marku; the Head of the Criminal Code Working Group, Mr. Arben Rakipi; representatives of civil society organizations; journalists; and delegates from the Council of Europe.
The Minister emphasized the integrity of the process and the need to safeguard the work of journalists and freedom of expression.
The Minister highlighted the importance of protecting journalists’ work, ensuring they can fully exercise their freedom of expression while holding public officials accountable. He stressed that such reporting must be based on accurate data and facts, avoiding any potential for abuse or the spread of malicious, unfounded claims. He added that the draft Criminal Code has already received extensive commentary, reflecting a range of perspectives and objectives.
Lamallari stressed that the process should be fully inclusive and transparent, with all participants carrying out their duties and civic responsibilities to help strengthen the country’s democracy.
The Minister also stated that the ultimate goal is to produce a framework that reflects society’s needs, stands the test of time, and aligns with the highest international standards.
Minister Lamallari stated, “Ultimately, our objective is to develop a framework that integrates all expressed perspectives, grounded in the experiences and knowhow we have accumulated, while adhering to the highest European and international standards. For the Ministry of Justice, the integrity of the process is non-negotiable. It is essential to ensure a process that is open, constructive, and conducive to informed debate. The outcome of this process will reflect the maturity of Albanian society and our collective vision for a stronger democracy and a dignified state, fully aligned with the European community.”
Krasniqi outlined the Audiovisual Media Authority’s (AMA) recommendations on certain provisions of the new draft Criminal Code that the Authority deems in need of revision.
She stated, “Freedom of expression and the right to information are not only fundamental human rights but also serve as essential guiding principles in the regulation of the audiovisual sector. Drawing on these rights, and in full adherence to the principles of professional journalism, as well as the standards of the Council of Europe, the European Convention on Human Rights, and other international norms, we have reviewed and provided recommendations on specific articles of the draft Criminal Code, namely Articles 235, 267, 536, 863, and 865.”
She described the discussions and proposals presented at today’s roundtable as highly constructive, emphasizing that additional sessions will be held until the final draft of the new Criminal Code is completed.
Consultative roundtables on the draft Criminal Code will continue with other stakeholders, in accordance with a previously established schedule.
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