Serbian media watchdogs report sharp rise in threats against journalists

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

Notable incidents include an online death threat directed at local outlet Volim Zrenjanin and a physical assault in Belgrade on film director Stevan Filipović. Prosecutors have opened an investigation into the attack on Filipović. Concurrently, press groups condemned threats directed at pro-government figures, including harassment at the residence of Informer editor Dragan J. Vučićević. President Aleksandar Vučić condemned the violence and called for institutional action.

Sources: Beta, CDM, Danas, N1, Tanjug