Serbian media associations report surge in threats and attacks against journalists

Serbian media watchdog groups reported a sharp rise in intimidation and physical violence targeting journalists during July 2026. The Independent Journalists' Association of Serbia documented 19 security cases, including two physical assaults and 14 death threats. Simultaneously, the Slavko Ćuruvija Foundation recorded more than 100 verbal attacks, primarily attributing them to ruling party officials.

Notable incidents include an online death threat directed at local news portal Volim Zrenjanin and a physical attack in Belgrade on film director Stevan Filipović. Prosecutors have opened an investigation into the assault on Filipović, while Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić condemned the violence. Meanwhile, media associations also condemned harassment aimed at pro-government figures, including threats at the home of Informer editor Dragan J. Vučićević.

Sources: Beta, CDM, Danas, N1, Tanjug