Serbian media watchdogs and associations report surge in threats and assaults

Media watchdogs and professional associations in Serbia have recorded a sharp rise in intimidation, verbal hostility, and physical violence targeting journalists and cultural figures.

According to the Independent Journalists' Association of Serbia, 19 security incidents occurred during July, comprising two physical assaults and 14 direct security or death threats. In parallel, the Slavko Ćuruvija Foundation documented at least 106 verbal attacks against media workers by government representatives and ruling party officials over the same period.

Multiple recent episodes have prompted formal investigations and legal appeals. The Journalists' Association of Serbia urged authorities to identify perpetrators behind online death threats sent to local outlet Volim Zrenjanin. Concurrently, the Association of Independent Media condemned harassment directed at the family of editor Dragan J. Vučićević. In Belgrade, prosecutors opened an inquiry after film director Stevan Filipović was assaulted in the capital.

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