Serbian media watchdogs report surge in threats against journalists

Serbian media watchdogs reported a sharp increase in threats against journalists during July, raising fresh concerns over press safety. The Independent Journalists' Association of Serbia registered 19 safety incidents, including two physical assaults and 14 death threats. Meanwhile, the Slavko Ćuruvija Foundation recorded 106 verbal attacks, pointing mainly to public statements by ruling party officials.

In Belgrade, prosecutors opened an investigation into a recent physical assault on film director Stevan Filipović, who stated he was targeted while photographing damage to a historic site. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić condemned the attack.

Concurrently, media associations condemned incidents targeting pro-government journalists, including property damage and intimidation at a private residence. Separately, press groups highlighted new European Union transparency rules requiring explicit labeling for artificial intelligence-generated content.

Sources: Beta, CDM, Danas, N1, Tanjug.