An investigative report details how Ergys Agasi evaded authorities for eight months under alleged criminal protection networks tied to Albania’s political establishment. His eventual arrest followed a police leadership rotation, prompting scrutiny over systemic corruption and state accountability.
The introduction of a revised electoral map has intensified scrutiny regarding compliance with established standards for upcoming local elections. Analysts warn that the boundary changes could complicate voter registration and district allocation procedures.
Investigations reveal how criminal capital has infiltrated Albania's tourism sector in Ksamil, exploiting institutional weaknesses and oversight failures.
A BIRN report titled 'Geography of Inequality' addresses the crisis of depopulation in Albania's peripheral areas. This comes months after a bipartisan parliamentary commission was formed to consider a new territorial reform, with socialists proposing a new map merging 15 small municipalities.
Critics are raising concerns about the Albanian government's proposed plan for a new municipality map, viewing it as a potential centralization of power. Businessmen and other figures have voiced strong opposition, suggesting the plan could lead to depopulation and questioning the role of institutions like SPAK.
The Executive Chairman of Birnin Gwari Local Government Area, Hon. Dr Salisu Isah, has praised the reconstruction of the 122-kilometre Mando-Kaduna-Birnin Gwari Road, describing it as a historic intervention that will open a new chapter in development.
The ATIB association plans to expand its existing prayer house in Dornbirn, Austria, with a new mosque designed for up to 400 people, though an initial draft was rejected by the city.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has commenced the N178 billion Kaduna (Mando)-Birnin Gwari Road reconstruction project, aimed at enhancing security and trade in the region.
A nostalgic look back at a time when Unnur Birna, despite her beauty, had to work for praise and pay for public transport, highlighting that even beautiful people sometimes need to earn their recognition.
Reports indicate that many people are feared dead following clashes between illegal miners in Birnin Gwari, Nigeria, prompting calls for an official investigation into the violence.
Tony Award winner Reed Birney has joined the cast of 'Limbo, U.S.A.', an English and Turkish-language LGBT romantic drama set in New York, starring Turkish actor Sercan Badur.
Donald Trump attended the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Dinner, where he delivered a speech filled with jabs at the media and joked about seeking a fourth presidential term in 2028. During his remarks, he also made comments about a female journalist's appearance and criticized LeBron James.
Tony winner Reed Birney, known for roles in 'House of Cards' and 'Gossip Girl,' discusses the significant risk he took with his role in the pedophile-centered drama 'Blue Film' and the reactions he's still processing.
Despite British businessman George Cottrell's alleged links to controversial donations to the Reform UK party and the crypto-platform Tether.bet, Montenegrin investigative bodies are not examining his business operations or those of his associates in the country.
The Government of Republika Srpska decided to sell its share in the Orao defense industry factory in Bijeljina. BIRN reveals how the trail of the new buyer leads to individuals connected to Vučić.
A monitoring report by BIRN Kosovo and Internews Kosova claims that the process of appointing Zejnullah Gashi as Chief State Prosecutor lacked vital transparency and integrity tests.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić was photographed consuming sturgeon, a protected fish species, leading to public discussion about the legality of its sale and consumption, which can carry penalties up to six months in prison for poaching.
BIRN Bosnia and Herzegovina has made its documentary 'Bowie from Srebrenica' freely available online. The film tells the story of rock guitarist Samir 'Bowie' Mehic, reflecting on his life during the siege of Srebrenica before his death in the 1995 genocide.
The 31st anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide was commemorated with the burial of 10 newly identified victims in Potočari, while citizens across the region paid tribute to the victims. The event highlighted differing views on the atrocity in Serbia, with some calling for remembrance and others viewing it as a day of liberation.
BIRN has reported that opinions from 'anonymous' authors are targeting the Flamingo protests. These articles suggest a coordinated effort to discredit or influence public perception of the demonstrations.
Birna Mjöll Atladóttir, owner of Hótel Breiðavík, described over 75 cancellations by three large tourist groups for the days of a total solar eclipse as 'vandalism.'
A new report titled "The Albanian Files" by BIRN investigates the details and implications of Prime Minister Edi Rama's 'architectural renaissance' projects in Albania.
Albania has seen its 32nd consecutive day of protests, with citizens demanding the immediate and unconditional resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama and his government. Activists also submitted 'The Albanian Files' to SPAK, alleging corruption.
Savo Manojlović, leader of the Kreni-Promeni movement, has accused Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić of being a 'foreign agent of influence' following a BIRN investigation that revealed Vučić's advisor implemented a German plan for lithium mining.
BIRN journalist Saša Dragojlo stated that President Vučić claims others are traitors and that Germans promote a 'colored' revolution, yet he directly cooperates with Germany on the 'Jadar' project, suggesting hypocrisy.
An analysis in BIRN critiques Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama's 'imaginary world' versus human reality, focusing on his recent statements to the Socialist Party parliamentary group regarding popular reactions.
New genetically engineered fruits and vegetables could soon appear in Luxembourg supermarkets without clear labeling, a move proposed by the EU that is causing frustration among farmers.
A new study by the British Council and BIRN reveals that young people in Serbia are more inclined to verify information through multiple sources compared to their regional peers, with strong influence from peer and family networks.
BIRN Serbia issued a warning to the public about an ongoing online scam that is misusing the identity of journalist Jelena Zorić and the organization's name and logo. Citizens are advised to be vigilant against this internet fraud.
Albanian prosecutors (SPAK) are targeting the 'Aruba Corporation' in a multi-billion scheme involving drug trafficking and tower construction in Tirana, with investigations tracing back to a meeting in Aruba in 2019.
A 300-level Biochemistry student of the Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK), Zaharadeen Nuhu, has died after sustaining severe injuries during an attack by suspected thieves at a private hostel. The university is mourning the tragic loss.
BIRN has launched 'Exodus '99,' an exhibition housed in a freight wagon, featuring testimonies from Kosovo Albanians who were deported by Serbian forces in railway wagons in 1999.
Thousands of Albanian citizens continue to protest for the eighth consecutive day against Prime Minister Edi Rama's government and a proposed $1.6 billion luxury resort plan linked to US-Saudi investors, which critics argue involves pristine land belonging to the public.
Protests have intensified in Albania against a luxury resort project backed by Jared Kushner, with demonstrators clashing with police and expressing concerns over environmental impact and lack of transparency. Citizens are demanding a halt to construction, asserting that the land is not for sale.
An investigation by BIRN claims that Maxim media, owned by Ružica Krdžić, began illegal construction of a luxury building in Dedinje in 2022, with alleged assistance from the state.
The appointment of General Eric Wendt as the new US Ambassador to Tirana is met with interest, particularly regarding his stated priorities of combating corruption, organized crime, and addressing security issues within the NATO alliance. His confirmation is pending in the US Senate.
Chinese President Xi Jinping awarded Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić the Order of Friendship during his visit to Beijing, emphasizing the deepening cooperation between China and Serbia. This visit comes as Vučić faces political pressure at home and Western concerns about Serbia's growing alignment with China.
Operatives of the Kebbi Hisbah Board, an agency under the Ministry of Religious Affairs, have arrested a young woman and a man at Filin Idi, Birnin Kebbi, for allegedly engaging in immoral acts.
The…
Republika Srpska is moving forward with plans to build a data center, taking inspiration from Serbia's model. A consortium led by a Serbian government-owned company has been selected to conduct a feasibility study for the project.
A protest was held in Valjevo, Serbia, marking nine months since the brutal police beating of demonstrators, with a BIRN representative noting that the authorities' response becomes more brutal as citizens become louder.
A new BIRN survey highlights the significant impact of menopause on Greek women's professional, social, and sex lives, with many suffering in silence. Experts are calling for increased support from authorities to address the stigma.
The Prosecutor's Office for Organized Crime (TOK) has confirmed that Chief Organized Crime Prosecutor Nenadić met with Nikola Selaković, an indicted minister. This meeting has drawn attention due to Selaković's legal status.
A report by BIRN alleges that Albania's call center sector has transformed into a massive financial fraud industry, risking the criminalization of an entire generation of young people lured by quick money and a crisis of moral values.
BIRN has uncovered details regarding the Ministry of Construction's involvement in the 'General Staff' affair, with the Minister stating the ministry did not participate in certain aspects of the case.
The Albanian government has launched a major infrastructure project, "Porta e Alpeve," investing 100 million euros in the Shkodra region, a move experts view as connected to next year's electoral battle.
An FBI investigation is underway into the 'Homeland Justice' cyberattacks, with BIRN reporting that Iranian agents are exposing Albanian citizens' data on the market, which experts warn endangers national security and citizens.
A fire near QSUT in Albania caused millions of euros in damages to an entire building, prompting Prime Minister Edi Rama to suggest property insurance, while a report argues covering costs from the budget might be cheaper than through insurance.
President Vucic confirmed a BIRN/Haaretz investigation into joint Serb-Israeli drone production plans, expressing hopes to significantly increase arms sales and defense cooperation with Israel.
A BIRN report indicates that online hate speech in Albania is increasingly prevalent, spreading from social networks to TV debates and Parliament, often amplified by political figures and media.
Adel expert and journalist Lisbeth Bischoff takes a delightful journey through Dornbirn, the city where her connection to the world's royal houses began.
The Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN) is hosting an exhibition titled 'Reporting War' in Sarajevo. The exhibition examines the role of journalists during the Yugoslav wars of the 1990s, highlighting how some nationalist media contributed to fueling the conflicts.
Turkish media, citing Reuters, report that three people were killed and two police officers were injured in a shooting incident outside the Israeli consulate in Istanbul.
BIRN Macedonia has revealed that Dragan Krstev, 30, is connected to two companies associated with Aleksandar Mijajlović and Ivan Dragnjić, who are suspects in the smuggling of five tons of cannabis. The investigation focuses on the network behind the large-scale drug operation.
The Albanian government has pledged a 20% reduction in the oil excise tax, but the Finance Minister stated that this cut will only be activated once the price reaches 220 lek per liter.
According to a BIRN analysis, the Albanian Parliament spent 200 million Lek on deputies' per diems, fuel, and rent last year, with 60 million Lek allocated solely for international travel.
The Albanian Socialist Party (PS) Parliamentary Group is scheduled to hold an expanded meeting on Saturday, with parliamentary challenges expected to be a priority for discussion.
The European Parliament has voted in favor of tightening migration policy, including the establishment of 'return hubs' outside the European Union, a move that has drawn criticism from human rights groups and includes greater sanctions for rejected asylum seekers.
Two specific court cases in Belgrade, known as "nadstrešnica" and "Stajić," have been blocked for months as pre-trial chambers of the High Court struggle to determine jurisdiction.
An analysis by BIRN suggests that the increase in international oil prices could cost Albania millions to hundreds of millions, depending on the duration of the crisis.
Following the death of former Bosnian Serb leader Ratko Mladić in a Dutch prison, Serbian officials have proposed a state funeral, sparking widespread condemnation from EU institutions, Bosnian authorities, and survivors’ groups. Critics warn that honoring the convicted genocide perpetrator undermines regional reconciliation and violates international norms.
The chairman of Sabon Birni LGA in Sokoto reports a significant reduction in bandit attacks following the deployment of new armoured vehicles, enhancing security in the region.
Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have successfully rescued 75 men, women, and children who were abducted by armed kidnappers while traveling in commercial buses in the Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Nigerian police successfully rescued 75 abducted travelers from a forest in Birnin Gwari, Kaduna, after kidnappers fled the scene. The victims had been kidnapped earlier in the region.
Nearly a year after Albania's Prime Minister introduced an AI chatbot as a 'virtual minister' to combat corruption, its effectiveness and achievements are being assessed.
A small Swiss startup named iiode aims to revolutionize the light bulb market, dominated by Chinese manufacturers, by creating a completely disassemblable and recyclable light bulb.
President Bola Tinubu has officially launched the Kaduna-Birnin Gwari road project, marking the first major federal road development in the area in over two decades.
A BIRN investigation details the journey of a Serbian mercenary who transitioned from fighting in Ukraine to becoming a hitman for Balkan organized crime groups. The report, titled 'Ticket Out,' uncovers his involvement in contract killings.
Sigríður Birna Sigvaldadóttir was named the Red Cross Volunteer of the Year for her work with prisoners at Hólmsheiði prison in Iceland. She organizes weekly women's evenings, providing a temporary escape from prison life.
Albania's Socialist Party seeks to reduce the number of municipalities, but a Council of Europe draft report on local governance criticizes the centralization of public services and limited municipal autonomy, suggesting the new territorial reform should focus on capacity building.
Activists and citizens participating in a protest in front of the Albanian Parliament were met with police cordons and violently apprehended. Reports from BIRN indicate that peaceful activists, including those with children, were brutally handled by the police.
BIRN's weekly review highlights a 'fighting mood' across Southeast Europe, from Albania's 'Flamingo Revolution' to Turkey's embattled opposition, despite the summer heat.
BIRN has documented over 25 instances of satellite navigation interference over Serbia, including false signals that downed a dozen drones during protests and caused pilots to report incorrect instrument readings.
The European Commission's annual Rule of Law report criticized the Albanian executive and parliamentary majority for their political reactions to SPAK's investigations into high-ranking officials, viewing them as inappropriate attempts to influence.
The Bern Convention has criticized the Albanian government for a lack of information regarding the Vjosa-Narta protected area. This criticism highlights concerns about transparency and environmental protection efforts in the region.
Albanian politician Taulant Balla has publicly criticized BIRN and journalist Gjergj Erebara after Erebara made ironic comments about him on social media. Balla also demanded accountability from embassies and donors, including George Soros, regarding BIRN's activities, prompting a response from Marjana Koçeku who defended freedom of speech.
The electoral reform process in Albania remains at a standstill, with the commission closing its deadline without a final product from the Socialist Party (PS) and Democratic Party (PD). BIRN reports that the reform is stuck in place.
BIRN has published an article detailing how Albania's 'Flamingo Revolution,' a new form of peaceful resistance using art and creativity, is challenging the tradition of post-1990s political protests and the old political establishment.
Thousands of Albanian citizens continue to protest against Prime Minister Edi Rama, demanding his resignation. The demonstrations, now ongoing for 40 days, criticize the government's decision to spend 4.2 million euros on a Kanye West concert, alongside broader concerns about corruption and youth emigration, with Italian media also reporting on the situation.
The decades-old story of a 'sniper safari' in Sarajevo during the Bosnian War continues to be regarded as a rumor, lacking definitive evidence. Investigations by BIRN and Balkan Insight indicate the narrative remains unconfirmed.
A public initiative to preserve the gynecology and birthing station in Dornbirn, Austria, has been successful, forcing the state government to address the concern within three months amidst plans to relocate the services to Bregenz.
Melabúðin, a store deeply rooted in Icelandic food culture, is celebrating its 70th anniversary today, with store manager Dýrleif Birna Sveinsdóttir discussing upcoming events for the occasion.
The Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN) has launched a new 'Virtual Memories' app, allowing users to access virtual memorials at 50 unmarked war crime sites in Bosnia, aiming to educate younger generations about the country's wartime past.
Following heavy rain, activist Sidorela Vatnikaj addressed protesters in front of the Prime Minister's Office, highlighting the role of women in sustaining the "Flamingo Revolution" mass protests in Albania.
Suspects in the 'Konjuh' case will be released from custody if an indictment is not filed by the end of July. This deadline puts pressure on prosecutors to finalize charges.
International academics have voiced their support for the ongoing mass protests in Albania against the government. These demonstrations, described as anti-national by some, have seen calls for political engagement and diaspora participation.
Jörg Heskens, an advisor to Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić for 13 years, is paid by the German government, raising constitutional, legal, and political-security questions, particularly regarding lithium agreements and the 'restart' of Jadar.
Thousands of citizens continue to protest in Tirana, Albania, for the 24th consecutive day, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama. The demonstrations have seen large marches and strong calls for the prime minister to step down, with diaspora support also anticipated.
A cocaine trafficking group that allegedly smuggled 50 tons of cocaine is accused of laundering millions by purchasing over 15,000 square meters of land in Jalë and investing in luxury hotels. Reports detail how drug money was integrated into the Albanian economy.
North Korean hackers have been found to be stealing identities from citizens in Serbia and Bosnia, according to reports. This activity highlights a pattern of cybercrime targeting individuals in the Balkan region.
A wide-ranging operation by Albania's Special Prosecution (SPAK) has targeted a suspected criminal network involved in international cocaine trafficking from Latin America to European ports and the laundering of millions of euros through the construction sector.
BIRN reports that the European Commission is considering changes to regulations concerning foreign air carriers, which could impact Wizz Air. The review specifically examines Serbia's new air traffic regulations.
A spokesperson for the US Department of State, when questioned by BIRN, indicated that the 'non grata' sanction against the head of the Democratic Party, Sali Berisha, has been lifted, though the basis for this decision was not immediately clear.
Thousands of Albanians participated in historic anti-government protests in Tirana, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama. Demonstrators marched through the streets, calling for a 'revolution' and vowing to continue their revolt.
BIRN reports that the Serbian Security Information Agency (BIA) has not responded for over six months to court requests for documents needed for the defense in the 'Jovanjica' case. The court continues to await the necessary materials to proceed with the defense.
Birna Rún made sure that no one was bored, ensuring an engaging experience for all involved. Her efforts were focused on keeping everyone entertained and interested.
Icelandic artists Luigi and Maron Birnir have released their new song 'Berdreymi', co-written with Kristján G. Ómarsson Saenz, which is featured on their album 'Leikurinn er leikurinn'.
An investigation by BIRN has revealed that SUVs used in a Kosovo attack are linked to a series of suspect Serbian tenders. The findings suggest a pattern of sole-bidder contracts.
A BIRN investigation sheds new light on election day in Kula municipality, revealing that a local restaurant served as a logistics center for the SNS party and received millions from the budget for years.
A journalist from BIRN, Saša Dragojlo, disclosed how the investigative network inadvertently came into possession of details regarding a marketing campaign for Vučić, orchestrated by marketing expert Srulik Ajnhorn, which is currently underway.
The process of European Union integration is reportedly facing significant obstacles due to political polarization and a persistent lack of transparency. These issues are hindering progress towards accession.
Participants at an Anti-Corruption Forum, organized by BIRN Montenegro and the Civic Alliance, warned that corruption in education, including diploma purchases and political influences, erodes trust in the system and devalues qualifications.
Land in Bosnia is being bought up by firms founded with Gulf capital, cleared of trees and sold to Gulf buyers, often Kuwaitis, for new homes that, by law, can’t be built, BIRN and ARIJ can reveal.
Sali Berisha's uncontested election as leader of the Democratic Party (DP) in Albania has sparked concerns among analysts and political figures regarding the future and effectiveness of the opposition. Critics suggest this lack of competition could weaken the party and potentially benefit the ruling government.
By Haruna Aliyu, Birnin Kebbi BIRNIN KEBBI — Governor Nasir Idris has approved the dissolution of the Governing Council of Abdullahi Fodio University of Science and Technology Aliero (AFUSTA),…
Details have emerged regarding an agreement between Serbia and Israel concerning secret defense data. The pact reportedly includes provisions for mutual inspections by security personnel.
Albania's National Authority for Cyber Security (AKSK) has responded to a BIRN analysis concerning the leakage of Albanian citizens' data by Iranian hackers. AKSK stated that the risk posed to citizens by the data breach is a significant security challenge.
A police chief has been accused of becoming an 'asset' to organized crime, allegedly involved in drug trafficking, compromising operations, and destroying evidence. This revelation comes from an investigation detailing the extent of the corruption.
Scientists are warning that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is weakening more rapidly than previously thought and could collapse sooner than expected. Such a collapse would trigger catastrophic climate consequences, including extremely cold winters and summer droughts across Europe, Africa, and America.
A BIRN report asserts that corruption has severely damaged Albania's economy, citing cases like AKSHI and the 'Balluku' issue as evidence of systemic corruption within the country.
The demand from criminal groups for new modern weapons and the stock in circulation from the riots of 1997 keep Albania on the map of illegal arms trafficking, while investigations into these cases...
The latest BIRN Western Balkans Stability Monitor examines the start of the year across the region, noting that governments are struggling to survive amidst rising global uncertainty.
A new draft law, initiated by Socialist MP Ramion Kurti, was approved in two parliamentary committees, proposing changes to the 2022 law on technological and scientific parks. The bill introduces the concept of a virtual park, specifically for “Durana,” due to the absence of a physical park.
The Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN) has located in Moscow an alleged ringleader of a Serbian group accused of staging stunts in Paris and Berlin to incite social tensions on behalf of Russia.
A Serbian man, accused of leading a group that incited hatred and social tensions through various incidents, has been identified and located in Moscow by BIRN.
A debate was held in Montenegro to discuss the supervision of the cryptocurrency market, featuring guests including the head of the Financial Intelligence Unit of the Police Administration, a representative from BIRN, and a member of parliament.
BIRN reports that Prime Minister Rama's actions to protect his deputy from arrest appear to mark the beginning of the end for Albanians' hopes that powerful figures would finally be held accountable, challenging illusions about democracy.
Three years after a new judicial map, Albania's General Jurisdiction Court of Appeal is losing the battle against a growing backlog of cases, despite an increase in judges and reviews, at an incalculable cost to citizens.
Gjykata Kushtetuese ka qenë nën projektorë gjatë muajve të fundit për shkak të vendimit për pezullimin nga detyra të ish-zv.kryeministres Belinda Balluku.
The Transmission Company of Nigeria has declared force majeure on the Birnin Kebbi–Niamey cross-border power line after heavy rainfall caused three transmission towers to collapse.
Péter Nádas, the celebrated Hungarian author best known for his monumental novel Parallel Stories and recipient of the Franz Kafka Prize, has died at the age of 83. His passing has prompted widespread tributes from the international literary community, cementing his legacy as a defining voice of contemporary European fiction.
The Sabon Birni LG Chairman reports a significant improvement in security in Sokoto, Nigeria, following the deployment of armored vehicles, which has led to a reduction in bandit attacks.
Nigerian troops have successfully rescued dozens of kidnapped victims and thwarted several terrorist attacks across Kaduna, Sokoto, Edo, and Plateau states. Operations also led to the arrest of a suspected gunrunner and the killing of numerous terrorists.
BIRN investigates the accusations against 12 individuals on trial for allegedly siphoning millions of euros in public money intended for solving Tirana's long-standing garbage problem through 'ghost incinerators'.
The N177 billion Mando-Kaduna-Birnin Gwari Road project in Kaduna is expected to unlock significant agricultural and commercial potential, creating jobs and stimulating the local economy.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Serbia, a country with historical ties to Russia, securing pledges of support while Russian missile attacks near Kyiv killed a child and two others. The visit aimed to strengthen Ukraine's diplomatic standing as Russian influence in the Balkans wanes.
BIRN revisited locations from Croatia's Operation Storm, using wartime photographs to document how places have changed over 31 years, noting restored homes but fewer inhabitants.
Heavily armed terrorists launched an attack on Tsamaye community in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State, Nigeria, resulting in at least 21 deaths and the abduction of 37 others.
At least 16 people are feared killed in weekend attacks on communities in Sabon Birni and Rabah local government areas of Sokoto, Nigeria, with several injured, abducted, and displaced.
Several Albanian municipalities, including Divjaka, Memaliaj, Dimal, Poliçan, Prrenjas, and Klos, are protesting against the government's proposed territorial reform, which would see some municipalities merged or dissolved. Citizens and local leaders express strong opposition, fearing centralisation, depopulation, and a loss of local identity.
Albanian citizens have launched a major protest, marching through the streets of Tirana and demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama and his entire government. Protesters are calling for an end to corruption, describing it as the largest citizen mobilization since the fall of communism.
A BIRN survey reveals that child maintenance systems are failing single mothers in the Balkans and other regions, with many fathers failing to pay, paying insufficient amounts, or making late payments, placing a significant financial burden on mothers.
Anti-government protests in Albania, now in their 54th day, have garnered international media attention, with Italian newspaper 'L'Espresso' highlighting the demonstrations in Tirana and citizens' demands for Prime Minister Edi Rama's resignation.
BIRN has uncovered over 25 instances of satellite navigation interference in Serbia, where fake signals reportedly downed a dozen drones during protests and provided incorrect locations to aircraft.
Icelandic artists Birnir and Adam Karl visited Viðey to create flavors inspired by the Icelandic summer and nostalgia, ultimately settling on rhubarb, redcurrant, and blackcurrant.
Kanye West's concert in Albania received mixed reviews from fans, with some expressing dissatisfaction over the event's organization and infrastructure provided by the Albanian government. Despite some complaints, the event was still considered a memorable night for many attendees.
A BIRN survey reveals widespread self-censorship among Albanian journalists and news editors who fear crossing powerful, politically connected media moguls and encountering 'untouchable topics'.
The Albanian government is facing widespread criticism and protests for reportedly allocating 4 million euros in public funds to host a Kanye West concert in Tirana. Critics argue the money should be used for public services like schools and hospitals, while some accuse the government of coercing attendance.
A new digital rights monitoring report by BIRN reveals an increasingly hostile digital landscape, particularly for journalists and civil society, across the Western Balkans and Turkey.
Several Montenegrin journalists, including the director of BIRN Montenegro, Vuk Maraš, have been denied entry into Serbia. This move has drawn criticism from media organizations and raised concerns about press freedom.
Vuk Maras, executive director of BIRN Montenegro, was denied entry to Serbia, which he stated was a reciprocal action after Montenegro barred a Serbian pro-government media owner.
Moldovan Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu has unexpectedly resigned, triggering a government crisis. His resignation comes amidst ongoing corruption scandals within state institutions.
A new BIRN report highlights that despite robust legal frameworks, public institutions in the Western Balkans continue to find new methods to obstruct transparency and impede freedom of information.
Savo Manojlović, leader of the Kreni-Promeni movement, has accused Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić of acting as a 'foreign agent' in Serbia, citing a BIRN investigation into a German lithium mining plan.
Thousands of Albanian citizens marched in the capital and other cities, demanding the immediate resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama and his government, accusing them of corruption and mismanagement. Protesters announced a national protest for Saturday, calling for all Albanians to unite.
Documents obtained by BIRN/Der Spiegel reveal the close collaboration between German advisor Jörg Heeskens and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, particularly concerning a deeply unpopular lithium project, with Heeskens' services reportedly paid from German funds.
Nigerian troops successfully thwarted an abduction attempt in Sabon Birni, Sokoto, neutralizing bandits, while the government reassured residents amidst renewed threats from a notorious bandit leader, Turji.
Four individuals linked to an OnlyFans management agency run by Czech influencer Adam Kajumi have been charged with human trafficking and pimping following a 2025 investigation.
A recent protest in Albania has put the opposition, particularly the Democratic Party (PD), to the test as it struggles to position itself against a movement challenging the political establishment. BIRN reported that the protest significantly challenged the opposition.
A house cat in Dornbirn, Austria, sustained a neck injury from an air rifle, prompting a police investigation into animal cruelty and a search for witnesses.
NUNS has called for an urgent investigation into the misuse of journalist Jelena Zorić's identity and the name of BIRN in an online scam. The organization emphasizes the need to address this internet fraud promptly.
The Kaduna State Roads Agency has highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects in the Birnin Gwari Local Government Area, describing them as evidence of Governor Uba Sani’s commitment to development. The initiative aims to replace conflict with progress in the region.
Icelandic musicians Birnir and GDRN have released a new captivating electro-pop song titled 'Vilt fá' at midnight, produced in collaboration with Marteinn Bangerboy Hjartarson.
A new BIRN report concludes that young people in the Western Balkans require improved practical skills to identify fake news on the internet and social media. The report also calls for better standards and transparency from online platforms to make false information easier to detect.
Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has cited an alleged Iranian attack and a 'hybrid war' as an alibi for a crisis of trust and lack of transparency, while facing ongoing protests against a resort construction in Zvërnec.
BIRN journalist Radmilo Marković discussed a new report on illegal construction in Dedinje, Serbia, highlighting the unclear reasons behind the annulment of a construction inspection decision by Aleksandra Sofronijević, further detailing the ongoing investigation.
The Serbian Ministry of Interior has acquired two new facial recognition systems, enabling real-time monitoring of citizens and social contacts. This development raises concerns about privacy and surveillance capabilities.
BIRN reports that two armored Mercedes vehicles, owned by a Belgrade firm connected to Radoičić and Veselinović, were seized as part of the investigation into the Banjska attack in northern Kosovo.
The Kebbi Hisbah Board apprehended a young man and woman in Birnin Kebbi on May 20 for alleged immoral acts, which are considered contrary to Islamic teachings.
Kebbi Hisbah in Nigeria arrested a man discovered hiding in a 'Ghana Must-Go' bag inside a married woman’s house in Birnin Kebbi, following a tip-off from residents.
Businessman Blerim Devolli's defamation lawsuit against BIRN Kosovo, concerning a 2020 investigation into shell companies profiting from solar energy, was dismissed after he failed to appear in court.
Four months after devastating floods in Porto Romano and other areas of Durrës, residents are complaining about a lack of information regarding promised damage compensation, while the Municipality states it has not yet received the necessary funds.
A design event featuring Ólöf Birna, Sigga Heimis, and Birna took place in Harpa, described as a true design feast. The article highlights the vibrant atmosphere of the festival.
A BIRN-supported photo exhibition highlights the resilience of Sarajevo's cultural scene, demonstrating how the city kept culture alive amidst the hardships of the 1992-95 siege.
Investigative journalism organization BIRN has revealed the specific role of the Ministry of Construction in the ongoing General Staff case. The report details the ministry's involvement, shedding light on previously undisclosed aspects of the situation.
Industry insiders in Kosovo's information, communication, and technology sector observe signs of a shift from "brain drain" to "brain circulation." However, the appeal of better pay and career prospects abroad remains strong for local talent.
Fifteen years after committing to do so, Serbia has not returned scanned copies of cadastral records seized from Kosovo during the 1998-99 war, leaving thousands of property disputes unresolved.
The Albanian State Police's Cybercrime Investigation Directorate has issued a warning to citizens about widespread fraudulent SMS messages circulating in Albania, which falsely claim to be from the Albanian Post.
Following the withdrawal of the 'golden passports' project, Albania's Socialist Party is proposing changes to the citizenship law to allow naturalization for foreign individuals with public or private activity deemed to be in the state's interest.
SRBIJA je s izraelskim vojnim divom Elbit Systems dogovorila proizvodnju dronova na svom teritoriju, objavila je u utorak Balkanska istraživačka mreža (BIRN) u suradnji s izraelskim listom Haaretz.
Judge Naime Krasniqi-Jashanica has been transferred to a lower division of the Pristina Basic court after a BIRN report highlighted her involvement in undermining a victim in a domestic violence trial.
A new prosecutor has taken over the investigation into the smuggling of five tons of cannabis seized in January in Konjuh, Serbia, after the initial prosecutor was reassigned.
A report by the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN) indicates a decline in information requests from journalists and civil society representatives in 2025, attributing it to institutions' tactics of avoiding responses and causing discouragement.
A report from the Public Procurement Commission for 2025 identifies the most problematic institutions in public procurement, with contested tenders worth hundreds of millions of euros, including AKSHI and Posta. Two former AKSHI directors are under investigation for alleged involvement in organized crime related to these tenders.
A BIRN report highlights the proliferation of Russian and Serbian disinformation online in Kosovo, noting that the country's media and institutions are struggling to counter fake news, which is increasingly difficult to detect due to AI.
New data from Registers Iceland reveals Matthildur and Birnir were the most popular baby names in Iceland last year, highlighting current trends in parental choices.
BIRN has questioned why the 'canopy case' remains blocked in Belgrade, as pre-trial chambers of the High Court, composed of almost the same judges, have been unable for months to determine whether the High Public Prosecutor's Office or the Prosecutor's Office for Organized Crime has jurisdiction over two indictments.
Austrian writer and Bachmann Prize winner Birgit Birnbacher has published her new novel, "Sie wollen uns erzählen," which subtly explores how people cope with ADHD and overcome fears.
Residents of Wellington are split on plans to revamp the State Highway 1 corridor from the Terrace Tunnel to Kilbirnie, a project estimated to cost between $2.9 billion and $3.8 billion.