Serbian press watchdogs report surge in threats and violence against journalists

Media organizations and press freedom groups in Serbia have raised alarms over a sharp rise in threats, harassment, and violence targeting journalists and cultural figures.

The Independent Journalists' Association of Serbia recorded 19 safety incidents involving media workers in July, including two physical assaults and 14 direct death threats. Concurrently, the Slavko Ćuruvija Foundation documented at least 106 verbal attacks against journalists and outlets by state officials and ruling Serbian Progressive Party representatives.

The pressure spans multiple media sectors. The Association of Journalists of Serbia condemned death threats against regional outlet Volim Zrenjanin, while the Association of Independent Media denounced intimidation targeting tabloid editor Dragan J. Vučićević. In Belgrade, prosecutors launched an investigation after film director Stevan Filipović was physically assaulted.

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