Media watchdogs in Serbia report surge in threats against journalists

Serbian press associations and monitoring groups have registered an escalating series of attacks and intimidation targeting journalists and cultural figures across the country.

According to figures from the Independent Journalists' Association of Serbia (NUNS), 19 safety incidents were documented in July, consisting of two physical assaults and 14 direct security threats. Additionally, the Slavko Ćuruvija Foundation recorded over 100 verbal attacks launched by state and ruling party officials against media personnel during that period.

Recent events include death threats sent to the local outlet Volim Zrenjanin, an intimidation incident at the home of tabloid editor Dragan J. Vučićević, and the physical beating of film director Stevan Filipović in Belgrade. Multiple journalism bodies have demanded urgent state investigations, warning that intensifying hostility jeopardises safety.

Sources: Beta, CDM (Cafe del Montenegro), Danas, N1, Tanjug