Mounting Pressure on Serbian Media Sparks Alarm Over Press Freedom

March 04, 2025 – Serbia – 

Press freedom advocates are sounding the alarm in Serbia as journalists face increasing threats, surveillance, and legal harassment. Multiple international organizations, including the International Press Institute (IPI), the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF), and PEN International, have called for urgent action to halt the worsening climate of intimidation targeting the media and peaceful dissenters.

According to a joint statement by IPI and partners, journalists in Serbia are being systematically targeted through smear campaigns, online abuse, surveillance, and threats, often originating from political actors or figures aligned with the ruling party. Investigative reporters and independent outlets are especially vulnerable, with several facing strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs), often used to burden them with costly legal defenses and silence critical reporting.

A recent press freedom mission by the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR) coalition visited Belgrade and Novi Sad in March 2025 to assess the deteriorating media landscape. The mission noted a deeply concerning trend of institutional hostility towards journalists and civil society. Participants reported a lack of meaningful protection from police or the judiciary, and a shrinking space for public criticism as media independence continues to erode.

PEN International also voiced concern over the chilling crackdown on peaceful dissent. Journalists covering protests, especially those relating to environmental issues or opposition gatherings, have been harassed and even detained. The organization has urged Serbian authorities to respect international human rights obligations, end arbitrary detentions, and allow the press to report freely without fear of retribution.

This crackdown comes against the backdrop of broader democratic backsliding in Serbia. Critics argue that government institutions have failed to safeguard press freedom and are complicit in fostering an atmosphere of fear. The current climate not only undermines public trust in media but threatens Serbia’s commitments to democratic norms and its aspirations for EU integration.

The international community is calling for urgent reforms, including legal protections for journalists, transparent investigations into threats, and stronger support for independent journalism. Without these measures, the media in Serbia may face further marginalization and repression, endangering the country’s democratic foundations.

Reference – 

Serbia: MFRR media freedom mission to visit Belgrade and Novi Sad

https://www.pen-international.org/news/serbia-end-chilling-crackdown-on-peaceful-dissent

Serbia: Urgent call to stop targeting and intimidating journalists