Law

In Kosovo, media regulation involves a combination of independent and self-regulatory bodies overseeing different aspects of the media landscape. While these institutions contribute to maintaining media freedom, ethical journalism, and data protection, there are challenges, such as concerns about financial sustainability and independence, particularly in the case of bodies reliant on sporadic donor assistance or state funding. Kosovo's regulatory framework is evolving to adapt to the changing digital media landscape, emphasising transparency and adherence to international standards.

The Independent Media Commission (IMC) was established in 2005 as the regulatory authority responsible for the broadcasting frequency spectrum in the Republic of Kosovo. The IMC plays a crucial role in licensing public and private broadcasters, setting policy, and regulating the rights and responsibilities of audio and audiovisual media providers. Operating in accordance with international standards, including EU legislation, the IMC is dedicated to upholding democracy, the rule of law, freedom of expression, and media pluralism.

The IMC comprises seven members, appointed by the Assembly of Kosovo through an open and transparent procedure. The IMC's budget for 2023 is 881,300 euros.

The Press Council of Kosovo (PCK) serves as a self-regulatory entity for the print and online media sector. Established in 2005 with the assistance of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, the PCK's mission aligns with the principles outlined in the Press Code of Kosovo. It aims to safeguard citizens from false information and journalists from unjust grievances, fostering adherence to journalistic standards. Comprising 54 regular members from various media outlets, the PCK hosts public meetings to review complaints and promote ethical reporting. While it lacks authority over online media, the PCK addresses complaints pertaining to ethical reporting principles.The PCK primarily relies on sporadic donor assistance and NGO support for financial sustainability.

The Electronic and Postal Communications Authority (ARKEP) serves as the regulatory body for electronic communications and the postal service in Kosovo. ARKEP operates independently, overseeing the regulatory framework defined by Kosovo's laws on electronic communications and the postal service. The Board of Directors, consisting of five members elected by the Assembly, manages ARKEP. The authority's budget is 1.5 million euros.

The Agency for Information and Privacy (AIP) is an autonomous body responsible for implementing Kosovo's Access to Public Documents and Data Protection laws. AIP's core mission is to protect individual rights in personal data processing and access to public documents. Reporting to the Assembly of the Republic of Kosovo, AIP monitors, advises, informs, and addresses complaints related to data protection and document access. The agency collaborates with domestic and international entities to fulfil its mandate. The state budget funds AIP, with a budget of 418,600 euros.