In an era dominated by propaganda, this global phenomenon has deeply rooted itself in the Balkans, amplifying interethnic tensions. Nowhere is this more evident than in Northern Kosovo, a region marked by crisis throughout 2024. Ironically, this area has also become an unconventional „tourist destination“ for officials from Pristina, who repeatedly visited to propagate their narrative.
Mitrovica’s promenade and the main bridge over the Ibar River were among the most visited sites, often serving as backdrops for Kosovo government leaders promoting their vision of a “North Kosovo free from crime and gangs.” However, these visits were often marred by communication barriers. Officials frequently avoided addressing Serbian media, refusing to answer questions or engage in dialogue.
One minister, when asked, “Why are you here today?” retorted, “Have I ever asked you why you’re here?” Another official dismissed a journalist with a curt, “Do you speak Albanian?” before walking away after receiving a negative response.
Challenges for Local Journalism
This year also highlighted continued strained relations with the Serbian List, a dominant political entity representing Kosovo Serbs. Despite sporadic public appearances, the party selectively invited media outlets to their press conferences and often denied journalists the opportunity to ask questions.
Tatjana Lazarević, editor of KoSSev, reflected on the challenges facing journalists in such an environment. “There’s no worse time for a journalist than when they begin questioning the purpose of their work,” she said. “In a society dominated by insecurity, injustice, and a loss of dignity, who values news or journalists’ safety? The greatest threat to journalism comes from propaganda, and to dignity, from despair.”
Serbian journalist and writer Vesna Mališić echoed these sentiments but emphasized journalism’s critical role in combating propaganda. “Globally and locally, journalism has been under immense pressure from propaganda for years. But that’s precisely why it matters—it represents a space for truth and normalcy. If we accept that everything becomes propaganda, life itself loses meaning.”
A Call to Persist
Xhemail Rexha, president of the Association of Journalists of Kosovo, believes the battle against propaganda is far from lost. “Propaganda has become more refined, making it harder for people to recognize and define it. Our role as journalists is to provide factual and accurate information while debunking fake news and propaganda, regardless of its source,” he stated.
Rexha praised the dedication of journalists across Kosovo’s communities and stressed the importance of their mission. “In an environment of constant interethnic tension, the fight for truth is challenging but necessary. It’s a battle we must continue.”
Looking Ahead
As 2024 comes to a close, the question remains: who will prevail in this ongoing struggle? Will responsible journalism triumph, or will manipulative narratives continue shaping public perception?
Preuzimanje i objavljivanje tekstova sa portala KoSSev nije dozvoljeno bez navođenja izvora. Hvala na poštovanju etike novinarske profesije.
