Sharper skills, stronger stories: Kosovo journalists learn through the OSCE Media Fellowship

Between April and September 2026, eight journalists working for Albanian- and Serbian-language media in Kosovo stepped beyond their familiar media environments as part of the OSCE Mission’s Media Fellowship Programme. Through meetings in Prishtinë/Priština and a study visit to Belgrade, Podgorica and Tirana, they exchanged experiences with media professionals and organizations.

The fellows met with journalists, media outlets and journalists’ organizations to discuss issues at the heart of journalism today, from media sustainability, working conditions and media independence to regulation, AI and new technologies. Topics also included journalists’ safety, disinformation, professional standards and support mechanisms available to media professionals facing threats and other challenges.

The eighth edition also highlighted the value of sustained exchange between journalists from different communities. Comparing newsroom realities helped the fellows recognise shared professional challenges and consider how colleagues working in another language could offer additional perspectives on a story. The contacts made during the programme provide a basis for seeking advice, exchanging information and exploring future co-operation beyond the study visit.

“Through the Media Fellowship Programme, we want to create opportunities for young journalists from different communities to learn from one another, broaden their professional perspectives and build connections beyond their immediate media environment,” said Arlinda Osmanaj, Programme Officer at the OSCE Mission in Kosovo.

The seven participating journalists were: Arianita Hoti (KOHA), Anastasija Đorđević (Kontakt Plus Radio), Milena Jevtić (Radio Mitrovica Sever), Shqipron Xhema (Kallxo), Sanja Kostić (former Kossev), Diellza Berisha (Klan Kosova), Festim Gërguri (IKD / Betimi për Drejtësi) and Behar Mustafa (BIRN). Established in 2017, the Media Fellowship Programme has brought together 64 young and aspiring journalists as part of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo’s efforts to strengthen professional standards and encourage exchange across communities. 

For the eighth cohort, the programme combined learning relevant to their daily reporting with direct access to peers across Kosovo and the region, and a shared platform to keep that exchange active.

For more visit the @omikmediafellowship page on Instagram.