Serbia's Press Freedom Crisis: A Call for Accountability

The recent incidents of police violence against journalists in Serbia have brought to light a disturbing trend that threatens the very foundations of press freedom and human rights in the region. The documented cases by NUNS reveal a pattern of excessive force and intimidation that has left journalists injured, equipment seized, and the public's right to information severely compromised. These incidents are not isolated events but part of a broader systemic issue that demands urgent attention and action.

Emir Kahrimanović, a journalist from 021.rs, was reporting from the riverside quay when police charged the crowd. Despite repeatedly identifying himself as a journalist and showing his press card, Kahrimanović was kicked by an officer while lying on the grass. Katarina Stevanović, from Vreme, faced a similar ordeal. Despite wearing a clearly marked "PRESS" vest, she was forced to lie on the ground for about 15 minutes, hands behind her back, and was prevented from calling her editors or recording anything. These incidents highlight the blatant disregard for journalists' safety and the fundamental right to report on public events.

The situation at the University of Novi Sad Rectorate was equally alarming. Police pushed their way into the building, where students and citizens sought shelter from tear gas. The entire team of the student outlet blokada.info was held inside, isolated from others, and their equipment was seized. Ksenija Pavkov, a journalist from N1, was prevented from approaching and filming events despite having credentials and standing in a public space. The N1 cameraman with her had earlier been struck in the head during the protest, narrowly avoiding injury thanks to a protective helmet.

The use of excessive force and intimidation tactics by the police is not only a violation of journalists' rights but also a threat to the democratic principles that Serbia aspires to uphold. The Ministry of Interior's statement that participants at the Novi Sad gathering intended to attack the police was used as a pretext for applying force against students, citizens, and media representatives. This narrative, coupled with the lack of accountability for police misconduct, creates an environment of impunity that undermines public trust and the rule of law.

The European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) and the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) have called for immediate action, urging the Ministry of Interior to launch internal control proceedings and sanction those responsible for the excessive use of force. They have also demanded the prompt return of seized journalistic equipment and an end to all forms of intimidation and unlawful ID checks of journalists. The EFJ General Secretary Ricardo Gutiérrez described the situation as an emergency, calling for decisive action from the EU, including sanctions, to end the impunity for such actions.

The IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger condemned the violent attacks on journalists, stating that they not only endanger the safety of journalists but also greatly threaten the freedom of the press. He called on the Serbian authorities to cease the prosecution of journalists doing their job and demanded that the EU impose sanctions to help end impunity for such actions.

The data shows a disturbing trend of increasing attacks on journalists, with August 2025 seeing the highest number of incidents this year. Fourteen of these incidents were linked to MUP officers, highlighting the systemic nature of the problem. The Ministry of Interior must take immediate and decisive action to address this crisis and ensure the safety and freedom of the press.

The right to record police conduct in public spaces is a fundamental aspect of press freedom and the public's right to be informed. This right can only be limited in strictly defined, exceptional circumstances provided by law. The work of journalists enjoys special protection in a democratic society, and any violation of this protection undermines the very foundations of democracy.

In conclusion, the documented incidents of police violence against journalists in Serbia are a wake-up call for the international community. The Serbian government must take immediate and decisive action to address this crisis and ensure the safety and freedom of the press. The EU and other international organizations must also play their part by imposing sanctions and holding the Serbian authorities accountable for their actions. The future of press freedom and human rights in Serbia depends on it.