Journalists Take the Lead to Improve Court Reporting in Kosovo
In an effort to improve journalistic skills on court reporting, the International Research & Exchanges Board (IREX) organized a one-day training for court journalists. Thirty journalists from Kosovo broadcast, print and news organizations were instructed on how to report on fundamental court procedures and trials. The program included instruction from district and supreme courts judges, prosecutors and attorneys, and court administrators regarding correct and accurate reporting on an array of court procedures, including trials, and terminology lists.
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| Representatives from Kosovo broadcast, print and news organizations gathered to build skills |
The importance of accurate reporting was stressed by moderators and participants alike as Ali Cenaj of Zeri Digest provided a critique of recently published stories about the court system, how they had been incorrectly reported and how journalists and editors can avoid mistakes in the future. Thomas Monaghan, head of Justice Department with the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), participated in the training and highlighted the fact that the quality of news reporting on the justice system is directly related to the quality of information the court system provides to the journalists. Further, presenters discussed the obligation of court officials to provide information and documents to the press, including fundamental information regarding criminal cases that can be shared without jeopardizing their trials.
The training is the second on this topic organized by USAID's Kosovo Independent Private Media project implemented through IREX. The first seminar was organized in cooperation with the USAID's Independent Judiciary and Effective Court System project implemented through the National Center for State Courts tasked with court improvements, including public information sector.
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