On December 15 in Prishtina, AJK, BIRN Kosovo and Internews Kosova awarded three Kosovo journalists for their exceptional contributions to fact-checking journalism, as part of the “Media Integrity and Disinformation Watch project,” with the support of the British Embassy in Kosovo.
British Ambassador Jonathan Hargreaves, BIRN’s executive director Jeta Xharra and University Professor Dren Gërguri delivered the awards.
First prize was awarded to Fitim Gashi of Sbunker for an investigation into coordinated disinformation campaigns conducted through Serbian and Russian-language Telegram channels, targeting the Serbian community in Kosovo. The investigation documented the cyclical spread of hate speech and disinformation, including intimidation, threats, and stigmatization of anyone cooperating with Kosovo’s institutions. It highlighted the instrumentalization of historical narratives to foster fear and deepen societal divisions.
Second prize was awarded to Sandra Cvetković of Radio Free Europe for two interconnected investigations into the role of Russian state media in shaping political narratives in Kosovo. The research revealed preferential treatment of the Belgrade-backed Serbian List, marginalization of other Serbian political actors and unsubstantiated portrayals of Kosovo institutions and Western partners as persecutors of Serbs. The analysis situates these narratives within the broader context of Russian hybrid influence in the Western Balkans.
The third prize was awarded to Xhezair Dashi and Arbër Ramadani of Nacionale for their investigation into the use of fake Facebook profiles, presenting themselves as women, to disseminate political propaganda during the February 9, 2025, election campaign. Through a combination of written reporting and video content, the journalists identified the operational patterns, interaction strategies and reach of these deceptive accounts.
The Fact-Checking Journalism Award marks a significant step in strengthening professional journalism in Kosovo, honouring journalists who uphold accuracy, accountability and the public interest in an increasingly complex information environment.