Serbian watchdog groups report rise in attacks and threats against journalists

Monitoring groups and press associations in Serbia have reported a surge in attacks, harassment, and threats targeting media professionals and cultural figures.

According to data compiled by the Independent Journalists' Association of Serbia, 19 safety incidents occurred in July, comprising two physical assaults and 14 direct security threats. Additionally, the Slavko Ćuruvija Foundation documented at least 106 verbal attacks made by government officials and ruling party members over the same period.

Recent cases have included death threats against regional outlet Volim Zrenjanin, harassment targeting the family of editor Dragan J. Vučićević, and the physical assault of film director Stevan Filipović in Belgrade. Multiple press associations and state officials have condemned the hostility, urging judicial and police authorities to investigate the incidents and hold offenders accountable.

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