28 January 2021

The Coalition of NGOs for Child Protection in Kosovo has followed with concern the media reports regarding the disappearance of a girl N.N. under the age of 18.

KOMF strongly condemns such reports which are contrary to applicable law, ethical principles and, most importantly, contrary to the best interests of the child. Such reports severely violate the privacy and moral and psychological integrity of children.

The media should keep in mind that even in circumstances where parents or legal guardians of children disclose or share information and details about the case, the media should not publish information that harms the integrity of the child, especially child victims, under any circumstances. Moreover, KOMF considers that the role of the media, in addition to being informative, should also be educational for parents in such cases.

KOMF requests from the Independent Media Commission (IMC) and the Press Council in Kosovo, to review this case urgently and according to the findings to take the necessary measures. This case is one of the reasons to clarify the meaning of professional standards to serve for public interest and to articulate guidelines for broadcast programs.

KOMF notifies that it will file a complaint to the IMC regarding this case.