Serbian watchdogs warn of escalating threats against journalists and cultural figures

Serbian press associations and monitoring groups have reported a surge in attacks and intimidation targeting media workers and cultural figures.

According to data released by the Independent Journalists' Association of Serbia (NUNS), 19 safety incidents involving media professionals were recorded in July, comprising two physical assaults and 14 direct security threats. Concurrently, the Slavko Ćuruvija Foundation documented at least 106 verbal attacks by state officials and ruling party politicians against journalists during the same month.

Recent incidents include death threats sent to the local outlet Volim Zrenjanin, an intimidation attempt at the residence of tabloid editor Dragan J. Vučićević, and the physical assault of film director Stevan Filipović in Belgrade. While several associations and state authorities have called for swift legal action, press freedom groups warn that the hostile climate poses mounting risks for reporters.

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