We Are the New(s)! Reporting Experiences of Young Journalists in Albania

This chapter investigates challenges that young journalists in Albania face, in starting their work as professionals. It draws on a series of interviews with 12 young journalists who have recently finished their studies and have started working as reporters. The goal of this chapter is to identify how studies in journalism are helping young professionals get equipped with the necessary theoretical and practical skills to conduct journalism work. Additionally, as Albania is reported to have a problematic media environment with ownership issues, political affiliation of media outlets, lack of transparency of funds and lack of respect for journalists’ rights (Reporters Without Borders, 2022. World Press Freedom Index-Albania. https://rsf.org/en/index?year=2022 ), this chapter explores what kind of techniques and mechanisms young journalists adopt, to avoid censorship and self-censorship (Halo et al., A blind eye on news: Self-censorship in Albanian media. Balkan Investigative Reporting Network, Albania, 2015) or existing journalistic practices that are harmful to freedom of media. No earlier studies have focused on experiences of young journalists in Albania. Insights drawn from this study can inform improvements in curricula of journalism studies. Furthermore, this chapter seeks to provide young journalists with new insights on their profession and to create a stronger sense of belonging by providing a space for them to voice their concerns and speak up.