New Rules for TV "Jungle" in Albania

Television networks in Albania are facing new regulations designed to halt the broadcast of pirated programmes. Starting in mid-October, authorities have enforced a new law
on copyright in electronic media, aimed at preventing stations from airing films, documentaries, soccer matches and other programmes lifted from foreign satellite channels.During the past decade, this was a common way of filling airtime. The new law, however, encourages the TV stations to compete fairly. It tries to address the chaotic environment of Albanian television, in which different stations have been broadcasting stolen programmes all day.Since the law was passed, several stations have adapted their programming, but most have reduced their airtime sharply. The regulations seem especially to be a challenge for smaller television stations with weak finances.Some stations continue to broadcast stolen programmes. However, the Albanian National Council of Radio and Television (ANCRT) has levied fines and warned the operators to be careful and respect the law."The breach of the law seriously damages fair competition and discriminates against all the operators that respect the rules of a free market," the head of ANCRT, Sefedin Cela, told journalists.ANCRT has also requested that authorities assert control over the videocassette market, in order to stop the reproduction or sale of material in violation of copyright.The approval and implementation of the new law was demanded by the large television networks, which denounced smaller stations for broadcasting programmes and movies without the proper documentation.The ANCRT has encouraged the TV stations to work together in order to fill the vacuum of programmes and films created after the law took effect.