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May 11, 2026 – Serbia –
A coalition of ten international media freedom and human rights organisations has called on European Union ministers to take a firmer stance on Serbia’s worsening press freedom situation, warning that continued violence, intimidation, and political pressure on journalists risk further democratic backsliding in an EU candidate country.
In a joint appeal addressed to Ministers for European Affairs across Europe, the organisations urged the EU to consider stronger political and financial measures, including the possibility of suspending certain forms of EU funding, unless Serbian authorities take concrete steps to protect journalists and improve media freedoms. The groups argue that the current trajectory reflects a sustained deterioration in the safety and independence of the press.
According to the statement, Serbia has seen a sharp rise in physical attacks, online harassment, and legal pressure targeting journalists since late 2024, particularly in the context of nationwide protests and heightened political tensions. Monitoring reports referenced by the coalition indicate that attacks against journalists increased significantly, while accountability for perpetrators remains extremely limited.
The organisations also highlight what they describe as a hostile public and political environment, where journalists are frequently subjected to smear campaigns and dehumanising rhetoric from public officials and pro-government media. Terms used against reporters, including accusations of being “enemies of the state,” are cited as contributing to an atmosphere that can encourage further harassment and violence.
Beyond physical safety concerns, the appeal also raises issues such as strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs), surveillance allegations, and pressure on independent outlets, which watchdog groups say collectively undermine media pluralism and journalistic independence. Recent monitoring missions have concluded that Serbia is experiencing a prolonged and deepening press freedom crisis, marked by impunity and institutional weaknesses in protecting journalists.
The coalition, which includes major organisations such as ARTICLE 19, Reporters Without Borders, the European Federation of Journalists, the Committee to Protect Journalists, and the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom, is calling on EU institutions and member states to publicly demand reforms. These include ending smear campaigns, ensuring accountability for attacks, improving legal protections, and strengthening safeguards against abusive litigation.
The appeal underscores broader concerns about Serbia’s EU accession process, with advocacy groups warning that failure to address media freedom violations could undermine both democratic standards and public trust in institutions.
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