A journalist in Kosovo has left her position at the public broadcaster RTK, citing censorship and a refusal to read a script praising a prominent politician. Edina Avdiu announced her departure on February 15, 2026, stating that her contract was not renewed despite being five months pregnant. The situation highlights growing concerns about editorial independence within Kosovo’s media landscape, particularly regarding coverage of sensitive political issues.
Avdiu, a journalist with three years of experience at RTK, alleges that she was asked to read a pre-written text that positively portrayed Dimal Basha, a deputy from the Vetëvendosje (Self-Determination) movement. According to Avdiu, the script was prepared in the party offices the day Basha was elected speaker of parliament. She refused to read the text, viewing it as a breach of journalistic ethics and a form of political pressure. This refusal, she believes, contributed to the decision not to renew her contract.
The incident has sparked debate about the influence of political actors on public media in Kosovo. Basha himself has been criticized for his reaction to questions from a journalist regarding the Association of Serb Municipalities, a contentious issue in Kosovo-Serbia relations. According to reporting from Gazeta Express, Basha dismissed the journalist’s inquiries as relevant only to Serbian media, a statement that was perceived as hostile and dismissive. Gazeta Express detailed the exchange, noting concerns raised by associations within RTK.
Avdiu’s account, shared on her Facebook page and reported by Gazeta Express, details her surprise at being asked to promote Basha. She described the request as a clear example of censorship and a compromise of journalistic integrity. The Facebook post, embedded below, provides a direct account of her experience.
The timing of the contract non-renewal, coinciding with Avdiu’s pregnancy, has also raised concerns about potential discrimination. Even as RTK has not publicly commented on the specific reasons for the decision, the circumstances have fueled criticism from media watchdogs and advocates for press freedom. The case underscores the challenges faced by journalists in Kosovo, where political interference and economic pressures can compromise editorial independence.
This incident occurs within a broader context of scrutiny regarding media freedom in the region. Kosovo’s public broadcaster, RTK, is intended to serve as an independent source of information for all citizens, but its vulnerability to political influence remains a persistent issue. The Association of Journalists of Kosovo and other organizations have repeatedly called for greater transparency and accountability in the management of RTK, as well as stronger protections for journalists against political pressure and intimidation.
The situation with Edina Avdiu is likely to further intensify these calls for reform. The next step will be to observe RTK’s response to the allegations and whether any internal investigation is launched. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the future of public broadcasting and media freedom in Kosovo.
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