The International Press Institute (IPI), the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR) and the SafeJournalists Network on Thursday demanded accountability for all violence against journalists in Serbia.
“Marking a quarter of a century since the murder of Serbian journalist Slavko Ćuruvija, the International Press Institute (IPI), the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR) partners and the SafeJournalists Network stand united in condemning the impunity surrounding his assassination,” a joint statement said and demanded “accountability for all acts of violence against journalists in Serbia”.
“We are deeply alarmed to see the absenteeism of institutions in reacting effectively to these assaults, which exacerbates the risks facing journalists. The revival of insults by politicians in public debates also stresses the need for officials to refrain from targeting journalists,” the statement said and recalled the sustained attacks on and threats against the leaders of the Association of Independent Journalists of Vojvodina (NDNV), Ana Lalic Hegedis and Dinko Gruhonjic. “In the face of the authorities’ lack of response despite our persistent calls for a thorough investigation and conviction of the perpetrators, the MFRR has provided private protection to both journalists for the first time,” it said.
„We stand in solidarity with all journalists in Serbia who courageously continue their vital work in the face of adversity. Perpetrators of violence and intimidation must be held accountable to ensure a free and safe environment for the media workers in Serbia,“ the statement said.
Source: N1