The Independent Media Commission (KPM) has introduced Regulation KPM-2024/03, outlining the obligations of media outlets during the electoral campaign period. This regulation aligns with the Law on General Elections in the Republic of Kosovo and aims to ensure compliance with electoral and media legislation.
According to KPM, the regulation seeks to assist audiovisual media service providers in adhering to Chapter VIII of the Election Law and the relevant KPM legislation during the electoral process. To clarify these requirements, KPM has also issued an Explanatory Letter for media service providers.
Media Obligations During the Campaign
KPM emphasized that all licensed television and radio outlets must operate in full compliance with relevant legislation during the campaign and the electoral silence period.
- Declaration of Campaign Coverage: Media outlets planning to cover the campaign must declare this to KPM no later than seven (7) calendar days before the start of the electoral campaign, as stated in Article 6.2 of Regulation KPM-2024/03.
- Submission of Election Logs: Media must submit weekly reports, including Log A (free airtime slots) and Log B (paid airtime slots), to KPM every Monday for the preceding week, in accordance with Article 11, paragraph 3 of the regulation.
- Submission of Pricing Lists: One week before the campaign period begins, media outlets must provide their pricing lists applicable during the election, as stipulated in Article 9, paragraphs 3 and 4 of Regulation KPM-2024/03.
Purpose of the Regulation
The new regulation aims to ensure transparency and fairness in media coverage during the electoral campaign. It seeks to guarantee that all political parties and candidates are provided equal and fair access to media platforms.
