Serbian media groups report sharp rise in threats and assaults

Press freedom monitors and media associations in Serbia have reported a sharp escalation in threats, harassment, and violence targeting reporters and public figures.

The Independent Journalists' Association of Serbia registered 19 safety incidents in July, including two physical assaults and 14 direct death threats. In the same period, the Slavko Ćuruvija Foundation documented more than 100 verbal attacks against media workers by government representatives and ruling party officials.

The surge in pressure has affected journalists across different media sectors. The Association of Journalists of Serbia demanded urgent action after death threats were directed at the regional outlet Volim Zrenjanin, while the Association of Independent Media condemned intimidation directed at the family home of tabloid editor Dragan J. Vučićević. Separately, Belgrade prosecutors opened an inquiry after film director Stevan Filipović was assaulted in the capital.

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