After eight years, attempt to sue exiled journalist finally quashed

Location: Kosovo, Pristina
Date: February 21, 2024

Women Press Freedom celebrates the court ruling dismissing the defamation suit brought against journalist Arbana Xharra by Imam Goga. After eight years, the Basic Court of Pristina has decided to reject the case. This ruling is a significant victory for press freedom in Kosovo, as it reaffirms the rights of journalists to investigate and report on matters of public interest without fear of reprisal. By dismissing the lawsuit, the court sends a clear message that targeting journalists with nuisance lawsuits for truthful reporting will not be accepted.

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On February 21, 2024, the Basic Court of Pristina ruled in favor of Arbana Xharra, rejecting Imam Enes Goga's defamation suit. Goga had filed the lawsuit against Xharra and Gazeta "Zeri," seeking compensation for alleged non-material damage resulting from an article published on April 6, 2016. The article implicated Goga as the leader of a Wahhabi movement involved in criminal activities.

In defense of her reporting, Xharra told Women Press Freedom, “Imams arrested for links with terrorism were released because our judicial system is weak and corrupted. Despite all the facts and international reports on these imams and their links with radicalism, they are free, and moreover, they are suing journalists trying to clear their names.”

In court documents shared with Women Press Freedom, the judge’s ruling stated that Xharra's article addressed matters of public interest and involved a public figure, Imam Enes Goga; it, therefore, did not constitute defamation or insult. The judge noted the reliability of the sources cited by Xharra, including previous news reports and investigation documents from the Prosecutor’s Office, further solidifying the dismissal of Goga's claim. Goga was also ordered to cover Xharra’s legal expenses.

Xharra, known for her work in exposing religious radicalism in Kosovo, has faced threats and even a violent attack due to her investigative reporting. Following years of harassment, she sought refuge in the United States, where she currently resides.

Arbana Xharra's victory in this defamation case is not only a personal triumph but also a triumph for press freedom in Kosovo. It sends a powerful message to those seeking to silence journalists through frivolous lawsuits, solidifying the indispensable role of journalists in fostering transparency and accountability within society. Despite facing challenges and threats, Xharra's resilience serves as a beacon for journalists committed to upholding the principles of a free press.

Women Press Freedom is an initiative by The Coalition For Women In Journalism

The Coalition For Women In Journalism is a global organization of support for women journalists. The CFWIJ pioneered mentorship for mid-career women journalists across several countries around the world and is the first organization to focus on the status of free press for women journalists. We thoroughly document cases of any form of abuse against women in any part of the globe. Our system of individuals and organizations brings together the experience and mentorship necessary to help female career journalists navigate the industry. Our goal is to help develop a strong mechanism where women journalists can work safely and thrive.

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