Press freedom groups report rising threats and violence against Serbian journalists

Media associations in Serbia reported a sharp increase in intimidation and physical violence against journalists during July and early August. The Independent Journalists' Association of Serbia recorded 19 security incidents, including two physical assaults and 14 death threats. Concurrently, the Slavko Ćuruvija Foundation documented over 100 verbal attacks targeting media workers, attributing the majority to state and ruling party officials.

Incidents include online death threats targeting local outlet Volim Zrenjanin and a physical assault on film director Stevan Filipović in Belgrade. Meanwhile, media groups condemned harassment aimed at pro-government figures, including threats at the home of Informer editor Dragan J. Vučićević. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić condemned the violence and called on authorities to prosecute those responsible.

Sources: Beta, CDM, Danas, N1, Tanjug