Water safety issues in Tetovo and media freedom concerns in Albania

In North Macedonia, the Public Health Center has confirmed that water in four villages within the Tetovo municipality—Xhepçisht, Poroj, Reçicë e Madhe, and Reçicë e Vogël—does not meet drinking standards. In Xhepçisht, none of the three analyses conducted this year showed the water was potable. In Poroj, a recent sample from August failed to meet standards, while in both Reçicë e Madhe and Reçicë e Vogël, recent tests confirmed the water is undrinkable. Competent institutions and local communities have been officially notified.

In Albania, journalists and legal experts are criticizing a new regulation from the Special Court Against Corruption and Organized Crime (GJKKO). Critics, including journalist Mentor Kikia, argue that the regulation censors media freedom by restricting press presence during court sessions. They contend that because the court handles cases involving high-ranking officials and public funds, media coverage is essential for public interest and transparency.