Greece bans Albanian journalist Artan Hoxha, citing threat to public order

Greek authorities have declared investigative journalist Artan Hoxha “non grata,” barring him indefinitely from entering the country. The decision, handed down at the Kakavijë border crossing, came as Hoxha attempted to travel to Janina on November 23. Greek border police cited him as a threat to public order and internal security.

Why is this important: The ban triggered political reactions in Albania, with a member of the ruling Socialist Party calling the move incompatible with European democratic values.

Context: According to the official document issued by Greek authorities, Hoxha is deemed a “persona non grata” for an unspecified period of time. The decision is based on Article 82 of the Schengen Border Code, under grounds of public security, health, and foreign relations. He was held for around an hour, had his passport stamped with a cancellation mark, and was ordered to leave immediately.

This is not the first time Albanian journalists have faced entry bans from Greece, especially those who have reported on bilateral tensions or raised questions about Greek political interests in southern Albania.

Possible political motive: The move follows Hoxha’s investigative reporting during the 2024 EU election campaign, where he criticized Fredi Beleri—an ethnic Greek Albanian politician—for his controversial past and alleged links to nationalist groups. Beleri, who ran as an MEP candidate for New Democracy, remains a sensitive subject in both countries.

Political reaction in Tirana: Socialist MP Ardit Bido condemned the Greek decision, calling it “unacceptable” for an EU member state. In a public statement, Bido argued that press freedom is a fundamental value of Europe, and that journalism should confront nationalism, not be silenced by it.

“Such actions are contrary to what the EU stands for. Targeting journalists is one of the gravest abuses of democratic values,” Bido said.

What’s next: Hoxha has not commented publicly beyond confirming the incident but is expected to challenge the decision through legal and diplomatic channels. The incident may also resurface during the upcoming diplomatic meetings between Albanian and Greek foreign ministers scheduled for mid-December.