Serbian media watchdogs report surge in threats and attacks on journalists

Press freedom monitors and journalist associations in Serbia have documented a sharp rise in threats, harassment, and violence targeting media workers and cultural figures.

The Independent Journalists' Association of Serbia recorded 19 security violations in July, comprising two physical assaults and 14 death threats. Concurrently, the Slavko Ćuruvija Foundation catalogued more than 100 verbal attacks against journalists by state officials and ruling party figures. Notable recent incidents include online death threats directed at the editor of local news portal Volim Zrenjanin and a physical assault on film director Stevan Filipović in Belgrade.

Media bodies have also condemned intimidation aimed at pro-government figures, including an incident at the private residence of Informer editor Dragan J. Vučićević. Organisations across the sector have called on law enforcement and judicial authorities to swiftly investigate all cases.

Sources: Beta, CDM, Danas, N1, Tanjug