Physical Attack on Journalist Sanja Vasković Raises Press Freedom Alarm in Bosnia and Herzegovina

February 11, 2026 – Bosnia & Herzegovina –

Bosnian authorities and media freedom organisations are condemning a physical assault on journalist Sanja Vasković, calling it a serious indicator of deteriorating safety conditions for journalists in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The attack occurred on 7 February 2026 in East Sarajevo, where Vasković was targeted while performing her professional duties, according to reports by local and regional press freedom groups.

Vasković, a correspondent known for covering civic, political, and social issues, was reportedly assaulted by unidentified individuals near her workplace. According to accounts submitted to the SAFE Journalists, the assailants physically attacked her, resulting in injuries that required medical attention. The circumstances of the attack suggest the violence was linked to her professional activities, a pattern that press freedom advocates say reflects a growing hostility toward journalists engaged in investigative and critical reporting.

Local journalist associations, including the Association of Journalists of Bosnia and Herzegovina, issued statements denouncing the assault and urging law enforcement to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation. They emphasised that physical violence against media workers undermines democratic norms and poses a threat to freedom of expression and the public’s right to information. Media groups also called for protective measures to ensure journalists can operate without fear of retaliation or personal harm.

Press freedom advocates highlighted that this incident is not isolated but part of a broader pattern of threats and intimidation faced by journalists in Bosnia and Herzegovina. They noted that in recent years, reporters covering corruption, politics, and public protests have encountered harassment, verbal abuse, and institutional pressure, contributing to an environment where reporters feel increasingly vulnerable.

International press freedom networks, including the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) and partner organisations, echoed local concerns and called on authorities to prioritise accountability for attacks against journalists. They stressed that ensuring criminal investigations and sanctions for perpetrators is essential to deter future attacks and reinforce legal protections for media workers.

The case of Sanja Vasković has reignited debate about the safety of journalists in the Western Balkans, where political tensions and social divisions can exacerbate risks faced by reporters. Media experts warn that without stronger systemic protections and effective enforcement of laws against violence and intimidation, the region’s news professionals will continue to confront significant threats to their security and editorial independence.

Reference –

BH Journalists: Physical Attack on Journalist Sanja Vasković is another Alarm

Actual attacks on journalists, Sanja Vasković, East Sarajevo, 07.02.2026.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: Attack on journalist Sanja Vasković yet another alarm for the state of media freedom