Shocking Data on Attacks Against Journalists in Serbia!
The first six months of this year brought terrifying numbers: a staggering 100 cases of journalists being threatened or attacked, 41 more than the same period last year! The Serbian Journalists’ Association (UNS) is sounding the alarm — this is the worst figure in the last five years.
Physical attacks? So many that it’s breaking news!
Imagine, 20 physical attacks on journalists in just half a year! That’s 17 more than last year. Some of these attacks happened right in front of the police, who did nothing! There are even suspicions that some police officers were involved in recent attacks.
Firings and censorship — media freedom on the edge of a cliff
This year, 17 journalists who supported student protests or opposed their media houses’ editorial policies were fired. There was one attempt at censorship, but it didn’t lead to contract termination. Last year, there were no police detentions of journalists; this year, there have been five.
Pressure, work obstruction, wiretapping — the daily nightmare
There were eight cases of work obstruction, six cases of pressure, and 16 cases of interference with journalists’ work. One of the most shocking cases was the attempted wiretapping of a BIRN journalist and the public sharing of personal data of RTS journalists.
Fake news and systemic terror
The system for preventing violence and protecting journalists in Serbia calls on authorities to stop the spread of false and disturbing news. Journalists and editors of N1, Nova S, and United Media face constant attacks, threats, and accusations of terrorism — which they say is systemic state terror against media freedom.
Vučić and Vučević: Reactions that sound like fairy tales
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and his advisor Miloš Vučević condemned attacks on journalists, especially Anja Vesović from Informer. Vučević called the attackers “cowards” and “inhumane” for attacking women, while Vučić demanded accountability for those insulting journalists. But is that enough when attacks happen in front of police who do not react?
Student protests and media warfare
Ahead of student protests, Vučić warned of possible violence, while his media branded students as “blockaders,” “terrorists,” and “fascists.” Meanwhile, Vučić’s supporters organize rallies in front of the Serbian Parliament, and police presence in Belgrade is increased.
What’s happening to media freedom in Serbia?
As attacks on journalists rise and the state remains silent or issues empty condemnations, media freedom in Serbia is under attack like never before. Will anyone finally stop this violence, or will we watch journalists become targets?
If you have a take or have seen something worth sharing, drop a comment. Let’s hear some common sense in this madness!
