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July 21, 2025 – Serbia –
Veran Matić, chair of the Association of Independent Electronic Media and a key member of Serbia’s Permanent Working Group for the Safety of Journalists, has condemned President Aleksandar Vučić’s recent remarks as an act of direct intimidation. In a televised appearance on July 20, Vučić suggested that those “convicted because of Veran Matić” should have their legal records erased, be treated leniently, and receive apologies from Matić himself. Vučić also claimed that if such persons had been “on our side”, their actions would have been overlooked, effectively hinting they might receive impunity under different circumstances.
Matić interpreted the statement as a dangerous signal aimed at discrediting him personally and undermining his work defending journalists facing threats or attacks. He warned that the call to “erase” convictions against those linked to him may embolden perpetrators of violence against media workers. As a result, he has formally requested a police assessment of his security, drawing on his previous experience of needing 24-hour protection for six years.
The Journalistic Section of the Working Group, which comprises major journalist associations, denounced the statement as “political pressure of the highest level” that increases risks to the entire press community in Serbia. The group urged the Internal Affairs Ministry to ensure Matić’s safety and called on public officials to refrain from language that may incite violence against media professionals.
Media observers point out that this episode highlights a pattern in which top political figures in Serbia openly attack independent journalism, contributing to a hostile environment that undercuts press freedom and democratic rights.
Matić’s call for protection and solidarity underscores the urgent need for safeguards for journalists working under state pressure. The reaction from the working group and media associations serves as a plea to both domestic authorities and international observers to intervene and uphold protections for media freedom in Serbia.
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