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AEJ President Arber Hitaj Launches European Tour: First Stop in Paris Focuses on Media Freedom and the Next Generation

PARIS – The President of the Association of European Journalists (AEJ), Arber Hitaj, has officially commenced a tour visiting various AEJ sections across Europe. This initiative aims to strengthen collaboration between journalists and address the contemporary challenges facing the profession.

​Strengthening Ties with AEJ France

​The first stop of the tour began in Paris, where President Hitaj met with the head of the French section, Catherine André. During the meeting, Hitaj outlined his strategic vision for the AEJ, emphasizing the vital role of the French section. He highlighted France as a cornerstone in the global and European struggle for media freedom.

​Catherine André provided a comprehensive overview of the media landscape in France, noting the specific problems that journalists currently face.

Her contributions included:
​A New Dynamic: Concrete suggestions for evolving the AEJ to meet the rapid changes in the industry.

​Periodic Initiatives: Continuing successful programs such as award ceremonies for young and established journalists.

​The meeting also featured the participation of Djenana Mujadzic, an experienced journalist and long-standing member of the AEJ, who offered her insights on the association’s European perspective.

​Focus on Quality

Journalism and Youth
​A significant portion of the Paris visit was dedicated to the future of the AEJ. President Hitaj held a focused discussion with Roxane Runel, a talented young journalist based in France member of AEJ.

​The dialogue centred on how the AEJ can better support the next generation of reporters in an increasingly complex media environment. They discussed methods to promote high-quality, ethical journalism despite the growing challenges of the modern world.

​Looking Ahead

​This stop in France marks the beginning of a series of visits President Arber Hitaj will conduct across other AEJ sections. The goal of the tour is to gain a firsthand understanding of the achievements and regional issues faced by colleagues across the continent, ensuring a coordinated effort to protect the interests of the journalistic community.

A very fruitful and powerful 2026!

Dear friends and colleagues,

By now, you have heard so many messages about how tough and challenging was 2025 and that 2026 is expected to be even harder to grasp.
We had and have armed conflicts, challenging economical times, doubled by disinformation and fake news.
We have and had attacks against journalists and against media freedom, in general.
We all know that it is tough and it will be even tougher for all of us.
However, in every crisis there is an opportunity.
And my wish for you, actually for all of us, is to seize that opportunity and to make the best of it.
For sure, it will make the professional and personal lives a lot better for us and our beloved ones.
I look forward to seizing those opportunities together!
I wish you all the best and a Happy New Year!

Cătălin-Teodor Dogaru

Secretary General of AEJ