A 2006 document from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Montenegro, signed during the tenure of Minister Miodrag Vlahović, reveals manipulation and suppression of media freedom ahead of the independence referendum. The document clearly shows that the goal was to control public opinion through compliant media, eliminate dissenting voices, and promote the idea of independence, while media outlets presenting alternative views were labeled as problematic. This document serves as evidence that Montenegro’s independence was built on foundations of censorship and fear rather than media freedom.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning sources emphasize the document as evidence of authoritarian practices by the Montenegrin government to suppress media freedom and manipulate public opinion to push the independence agenda. They highlight the dangers of media censorship and political control undermining democracy.
Center: Centrist sources report the document as a significant revelation about the political climate in Montenegro during the independence referendum, noting the use of media control as a political tool. They present the facts without strong bias, acknowledging the complexity of the situation and the political motivations behind the media strategies.
Right: Right-leaning sources focus on the document as proof of the undemocratic and manipulative tactics used by pro-independence forces in Montenegro, portraying the media suppression as a betrayal of democratic values. They criticize the ruling elites for silencing opposition and controlling the narrative to enforce political dominance.
