Kosovo will host 20 journalists from Ukraine fleeing the ongoing invasion by Russia.
Prime minister Albin Kurti signed the government decision on Tuesday. He later clarified on social media that selection of journalists who will work remotely from Kosovo will be carried out in cooperation with the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) and the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF).
Our government just decided to host 20 journalists from 🇺🇦 in 🇽🇰. They were forced to leave their homeland by Russian invasion. In support and solidarity with Ukraine & its people, in cooperation with @EFJEUROPE & #ECPMF, we will enable them to work remotley.#WeStandWithUkraine
— Albin Kurti (@albinkurti) March 1, 2022
Reuters reported earlier that an initial fund of €150,000 was allocated to cover their living costs, wages and offices for up to six months. Priority will be given to women journalists.
Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Kosovo has asked for accelerated NATO and EU membership fearing an extension of the conflict into the Balkans through Russia’s only regional ally, Serbia. It also asked the United States to open a permanent military base in the country.
