Serbian watchdogs document surge in threats and violence against journalists

Press freedom watchdogs and professional associations in Serbia have recorded an escalation in threats and harassment against journalists and cultural figures.

The Independent Journalists' Association of Serbia documented 19 safety incidents targeting media workers in July, including two physical assaults and 14 direct death threats. Concurrently, the Slavko Ćuruvija Foundation logged more than 100 verbal attacks against reporters, predominantly initiated by state officials and representatives of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party.

Hostility has affected outlets across the political spectrum. The Association of Journalists of Serbia urged law enforcement to investigate online death threats directed at local news portal Volim Zrenjanin. Separately, the Association of Independent Media condemned intimidation targeting the family of pro-government tabloid editor Dragan J. Vučićević. In Belgrade, prosecutors launched an investigation after film director Stevan Filipović was assaulted.

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