The Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia (NUNS) issued a sharp condemnation today, labeling the conduct of ruling party lawmakers during parliamentary sessions as “unacceptable” and “dangerous.” The association warned that such rhetoric incites hostility toward the media and creates a climate of impunity for threats against journalists.
Escalation of Hostile Rhetoric
In a press release issued on Wednesday, NUNS highlighted several instances of dehumanizing language used by high-ranking officials within the National Assembly.
The association specifically pointed to Milenko Jovanov, the head of the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) parliamentary group. During a recent debate, Jovanov referred to the television station N1 as “Šolak’s [Dragan Šolak, the owner] propaganda-terrorist trash,” accusing the outlet of manipulating information and fabricating news.
“It is unacceptable for a Member of Parliament and a high-ranking government official to use dehumanizing and dangerous language toward the media, especially from a podium that should be a space for democratic debate and respect for freedom of expression,” the NUNS statement read.
“Psychopaths” and Targeted Harassment
The criticism extended to MP Marijan Rističević, who reportedly continued a streak of insults against N1 and Nova S, claiming the networks were “created by psychopaths.” NUNS argued that these messages are not merely politically irresponsible but represent a direct incitement of intolerance toward media workers performing their professional duties.
Furthermore, the association condemned Minister of Culture Nikola Selaković for his remarks regarding journalist and university professor Dinko Gruhonjić. Selaković stated that Gruhonjić was “created for something bad to happen to him,” a comment NUNS described as an “extremely dangerous form of public targeting.”
Direct Threats to ‘Revolt’ Magazine
Beyond the walls of Parliament, NUNS drew attention to the ongoing harassment of the editorial staff at Revolt magazine. The publication has reportedly been subjected to a barrage of death threats on social media platforms.
NUNS has called upon the President of the National Assembly, Ana Brnabić, to officially condemn the outbursts of her fellow lawmakers and to ensure the parliamentary lectern is not used as a tool for personal vendettas against the press.
A Call for Institutional Action
The association concluded its statement with a plea for the rule of law, stressing that media freedom cannot exist in an environment where journalists are labeled “trash” or have targets painted on their backs.
“It is high time for institutions to start doing their job,” NUNS stated. “They must demonstrate that the safety of journalists and the freedom of public speech are truly protected by law, rather than just declaratively.”
