Serbian watchdog groups report surge in threats against journalists

Watchdog organizations and journalist associations in Serbia have raised alarms over escalating intimidation, verbal abuse, and physical violence directed at reporters and public figures.

The Independent Journalists' Association of Serbia registered 19 security violations in July, including 14 death threats and two physical assaults. Concurrently, the Slavko Ćuruvija Foundation recorded more than 100 verbal attacks against press workers by government and ruling party officials during the same period.

Recent incidents have affected media workers across the landscape. Local news portal Volim Zrenjanin received an online death threat, while film director Stevan Filipović was assaulted in Belgrade after photographing individuals damaging a building. Separately, media representatives condemned intimidation targeting the family of pro-government tabloid editor Dragan J. Vučićević. Press syndicates have urged authorities to swiftly investigate all cases and hold perpetrators accountable.

Sources: Beta, CDM, Danas, N1, Tanjug