The safety of journalists in Serbia has reached a critical low not seen in the last 25 years, according to media experts and advocates.
Veran Matić, chairman of the Board of the Association of Independent Electronic Media, told FoNet that journalists now face the worst conditions in Europe, characterized by frequent attacks, threats, and harassment, which undermine basic principles of free and professional journalism.
Rising Threats and Institutional Failures
Ivana Stevanović, executive director of the Slavko Ćuruvija Foundation, described this year as moving from catastrophic to intolerable levels of journalist insecurity. She noted that half of the attacks were reportedly carried out by police officers, highlighting a troubling trend of institutional complicity rather than protection.
“When the president publicly accuses someone of being a criminal, a thief, a terrorist, or a commander of a colored revolution, ordinary citizens who believe him may feel justified to threaten journalists on the street,” Stevanović said.
She stressed that solidarity among journalists is crucial, especially as reporters face not only physical attacks but also legal harassment through disproportionate lawsuits and judicial pressure.
Local and National Pressures Intensify
Matić pointed out that local journalists often operate in hostile environments with little institutional support, particularly during municipal elections. According to him, over 20 cases this year involved police units actively participating in attacks on reporters. While some prosecutors handle cases professionally, others follow state agendas, leaving journalists vulnerable.
Tamara Filipović, secretary-general of the Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia (NUNS), reported that over 300 incidents of pressure, threats, and attacks on journalists have been recorded this year, with more than 100 physical assaults, some resulting in serious injuries.
“Journalists, even with visible accreditation, have become direct targets,” Filipović said. She emphasized the importance of reporting and documenting incidents, so that future accountability remains possible.
International Attention and Support
Filipović highlighted that European and international journalist organizations continue to support Serbian reporters, helping to bring global attention to the deteriorating state of press freedom.
“This is our last refuge. If people abroad are unaware of what is happening in Serbia, there will be no pressure for change. Awareness may prompt action in the right direction, especially as Serbia continues its European path,” she concluded.
