Key Findings from the 2024–2025 Hate Speech and Discriminatory Discourse Monitoring Report
AWA _ Reporting Diversity Network
This report reflects the situation of Hate Speech and Discriminatory Discourse (HSDD) in the Albanian media environment through an analysis of its prevalence, forms, triggering events, and severity, based on reported and monitored incidents.
Research Objectives
To identify key trends of Hate Speech and Discrimination (HSDD) in the public discourse in Albania during the period January 2024 – June 2025;
To assess the severity of HSDD through an analysis of the emotional tone of narratives and sub-narratives targeting the most affected groups.
Overview of HSDD Use in Albania
During the monitoring period (January 2024 – June 2025), a total of 96 incidents were reported.
Of these, 12 were classified under general categories of HSDD, while 84 were recorded under specific categories.
The most widespread HSDD narratives were:
A. Gender-based – 40.6%
B. Against political opponents – 12.5%
C. Against journalists – 12.5%
Other HSDD narratives included:
Sexual minorities – 7.3%
Ethnic belonging – 5.5%
Two new categories of HSDD were identified during this monitoring period:
Against public institutions – 3.7%
Against children/minors – 3.7%
Meanwhile, religious- and migrant/refugee-based hate narratives remained at low levels.
Media Reporting Dynamics
Media outlets continue to follow a sensationalist approach, prioritizing drama over critical or systemic analysis.
Sensitive issues such as trafficking and femicide are often reported with vague terminology that tends to normalize violence.
Victims’ privacy is rarely respected, and the overall media discourse frequently reinforces stereotypes and prejudices.
The sexualization of women’s bodies for advertising purposes remains normalized—even by state institutions such as the Audiovisual Media Authority (AMA).
Hate Speech Against Journalists
Attacks include spreading false information, threats, cyberattacks, and criminal lawsuits.
Journalists face defamation and denigrating language, especially when engaged in investigative reporting.
The majority of these attacks originate from public and institutional figures.
Hate Speech Against Political Opponents
Narratives are characterized by sexist, homophobic, and dehumanizing language, and at times incitement to violence.
This discourse often serves political purposes, aiming to discredit opponents and manipulate public perception.
Common Elements Across All Categories
Personalization of discourse: Attacks focus on personal life, physical appearance, and private aspects.
Amplification through media and social networks: Digital platforms reproduce and intensify HSDD for clicks and engagement.
Normalization of aggression: The use of degrading metaphors and offensive language fosters a hostile public climate, often normalizing the aggressor and revictimizing the target.