The OSCE office in Tirana has criticized new regulations adopted by Albania’s Special Court Against Corruption and Organized Crime (GJKKO), warning that they impose disproportionate restrictions on journalists.

The rules, in force since September 1, ban the use of cell phones and electronic devices during hearings, limiting reporters to pen and paper. Media organizations have denounced the measures as censorship.

In a statement to Report TV, the OSCE said the regulation “pursues legitimate security aims, but some restrictions on the media should be applied based on individual risk assessments and less restrictive alternatives.”

The organization stressed that blanket bans undermine transparency and go beyond guidelines issued by the High Judicial Council in 2023, which allow controlled electronic reporting and require openness in the opening of public hearings.

The OSCE urged harmonization with those standards and called the lack of consultation “a missed opportunity” for inclusive rule?making. It suggested structured dialogue with journalists and the High Judicial Council could still refine the provisions before or during implementation.