Igor Božić, Program Director of N1, spoke out on the recent accusations by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, who claimed that N1 and Nova TV repeatedly called for the overthrow of the constitutional order. Božić emphasized that such claims endanger journalists’ safety.
Božić explained that pro-government media had misrepresented statements by N1 journalist Danica Vučenić, turning an observation about information on constitutional threats into a false claim that she had called for violence. He said:
“Informer twists words out of context and gives them a completely different meaning. Vučić has been building this narrative for months… We are literally being ‘satanized.’ By labeling us as media against the state, they put a target on our heads.”
He criticized Vučić for inciting hostility against independent media, including calling N1 a “terrorist media” during the August protests and claiming that the outlet threatened the constitutional order. Božić stressed:
“If they truly believe we threaten the constitutional order, they should take legal action and prove it.”
Božić also addressed the ongoing pressure on N1 from the Serbian government and highlighted the protection provided by N1’s registration in Luxembourg, which prevents unlawful interference and ensures compliance with EU cross-border broadcasting agreements.
He noted the frustration of government officials who cannot control N1’s editorial decisions, and how this contributes to a hostile environment that jeopardizes journalists’ safety.
Regarding N1’s future, Božić mentioned that there are no definitive plans yet, but international stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation. He praised the N1 team for their dedication, often working under dangerous conditions, including exposure to tear gas and physical threats, while maintaining continuous news coverage for the public.
“I am proud of all the people working at N1. Despite having a fraction of the resources of public broadcasters, they have fulfilled the role of a public service. Their courage and dedication have been recognized internationally, which is a huge acknowledgment of what our newsroom has endured,” Božić said.
