Serbian media watchdogs report surge in threats and physical assaults against journalists

Serbian media watchdogs and journalist associations have documented an escalation in threats, verbal hostility, and physical violence targeting reporters and public figures across the country.

The Independent Journalists' Association of Serbia registered 19 safety incidents during July, including 14 death threats and two physical assaults. Concurrently, the Slavko Ćuruvija Foundation identified at least 106 verbal attacks against media professionals by government and ruling party officials over the same period.

The reports coincide with multiple individual incidents under official investigation. Media groups condemned death threats sent to local outlet Volim Zrenjanin, while prosecutors launched an inquiry into the assault of film director Stevan Filipović in Belgrade. Meanwhile, the Association of Independent Media denounced intimidation targeting the family of tabloid editor Dragan J. Vučićević, warning against an escalating climate of hostility.

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