The OSCE Mission, together with the Association of Kosovo Journalists (AGK) and other partners, today awarded the Annual Journalism Awards for 2025.
This event values the essential role of journalists in preserving democratic values, recognizing their courage, dedication and professionalism in informing the public and strengthening trust in the media.
The awards include several categories - with the Journalist of the Year award as the main category - and highlight reporting that challenges disinformation, gives space to marginalized voices, and shares stories that unite communities while promoting transparency, accountability, and human rights.
“Tonight’s stories showcase journalism at its best, as well as journalists who have shown their commitment to informing the public during times of uncertainty by challenging disinformation and helping people understand the events that shape their lives,” said Ambassador Gerard McGurk, Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, presenting the Journalist of the Year award to Agon Sinanaj from the Buletini Ekonomik portal.
"The Excellence Award promotes high standards, innovation and ethical reporting that are extremely important at a time when journalists continue to face threats, online harassment, political pressure and economic challenges," he added.
Xhemajl Rexha, Chairman of the AGK Board, said: “We are very pleased to once again reward and recognize, now for the fifth consecutive year, the best among a strong group of professional and dedicated journalists. With over a hundred stories in the competition, the winning articles include investigations into corruption scandals, abuse of public office, as well as inspiring stories of ordinary people making a difference in their communities on various topics and in various fields.”
"This ceremony serves as a reminder of the essential role that journalists and the media play in a young and vibrant democracy like Kosovo," Resxha added.
Other award categories are: Cameraman of the Year, Reporting on Women's Empowerment, Reporting on Antigypsyism, Conflict-Sensitive Journalism and Dealing with the Past, Reporting on Migrant Workers, Reporting on Workers' Rights, Reporting on Mental Health, Reporting on Peace and Trust Building, and Reporting on Climate Change and Sustainable Development.
The OSCE Mission has strongly supported these awards over the past five years, strengthening its commitment to media freedom, high standards and ethical reporting. The Mission warmly congratulates all winners and nominees for their outstanding contributions to journalism.
