A BIRN analysis of hundreds of videos uploaded by TikTok users in eight Balkan countries shows the platform has become a hub for abuse of women and girls based on their appearance and actual or perceived sexual behaviour – ‘slutshaming’. Original post Here

Greek police working in the context of an international police operation arrested an Albanian citizen allegedly involved in four murders of Montenegro mafia members in Greece in 2020 – increasing the number of suspects behind bars in several countries. Original post Here

A programme director at the Albanian public broadcaster RTSH was fired by the new head of the station, Alfred Peza, a former ruling party MP who has been criticised for other dismissals since he took the job. Original post Here

Whether through compulsory military service or new hardware, some countries in southeast Europe are trying to bolster their defences in light of Russia’s war in Ukraine. But not all states can afford it. Original post Here

The ruling Socialist Party and opposition Refoundation Democratic Party told BIRN they are nearing an agreement to end the ongoing disruption of parliament, but concerns have been raised that a deal could derail judicial reform and the fight against corruption. Original post Here

Too many municipalities in Albania lack shelters for domestic violence victims – which are needed to encourage victims to speak out. Original post Here

Opposition MP Gazmend Bardhi confirmed to BIRN that an agreement had been reached with the ruling Socialists that will enable them to return to normal work in the country’s parliament. Original post Here

Jorgo Goro, who became acting mayor of Himara municipality amid a diplomatic row between Albania and Greece over his election rival’s arrest, was ordered into detention on suspicion that he transferred state land to private individuals. Original post Here

Campaigners say it is high time the 1.68 million Albanians living and working outside the country had a right to vote in the country’s elections without having to travel home. Original post Here

Blerina Bala was elected caretaker mayor of Himara by the municipal council after previous acting mayor Jorgo Goro resigned following his arrest for alleged corruption and election-winner Fredi Beleri was convicted of vote-buying. Original post Here