Serbian watchdogs report surge in threats against journalists and cultural figures

Media watchdogs and professional associations in Serbia have reported an increase in intimidation, harassment, and violence targeting journalists and cultural figures.

The Independent Journalists' Association of Serbia registered 19 security incidents during July, including two physical assaults and 14 direct security or death threats. Concurrently, the Slavko Ćuruvija Foundation documented at least 106 verbal attacks by state representatives and ruling party officials over the same period.

Several recent incidents have triggered formal complaints and investigations. The Journalists' Association of Serbia urged authorities to identify perpetrators behind online death threats sent to local outlet Volim Zrenjanin. Meanwhile, the Association of Independent Media condemned harassment directed at the family of editor Dragan J. Vučićević. Separately, Belgrade prosecutors opened an inquiry after film director Stevan Filipović was assaulted in the capital.

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