For the first time in the history of the World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders, more than half of the world’s countries are now classified as having “difficult” or “very serious” conditions for media freedo marking the lowest global level in the past 25 years.
According to the latest report, Serbia has experienced a significant deterioration in press freedom, falling to 104th place globally and being categorized among countries with a “difficult” media environment.
This decline confirms a continuing trend of political, legal, and economic pressure on journalists, alongside an increasingly hostile climate toward independent reporting.
The report highlights that journalism in Serbia is facing strong political interference, weak institutional protection, and an environment where propaganda and external influences including those linked to Russia—have considerable space. These factors are undermining democratic standards and distancing the country from the values required for integration into the European Union.
A particularly concerning element noted in media analyses is Serbia’s growing alignment with practices similar to those observed in Russia regarding the treatment of journalists and press freedom. Instead of strengthening European standards, Serbia is increasingly adopting measures such as political pressure on media outlets, the use of legal frameworks to curb critical reporting, and the creation of an environment where journalists face intimidation and obstacles in their work. This trend signals a shift toward a more controlled information landscape, moving further away from the principles of transparency and freedom of expression expected by the EU.
In contrast, Kosovo has recorded a notable improvement, rising to 84th place in the ranking. While challenges remain, this progress reflects a more positive trajectory regarding media conditions and highlights a clear regional contrast with Serbia’s decline.
Overall, the report portrays Serbia as a country where press freedom is steadily eroding, with political and external pressures making it increasingly difficult for independent journalism to operate effectively.
