The Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia (IJAS) expresses deep concern regarding the detention of publicist and columnist of Peščanik Dejan Ilić, by order of the Third Basic Public Prosecutor’s Office in Belgrade, due to his alleged statement that he “caused panic and disorder” in the program “Pokreni se”, broadcast on Nova television.
This reaction of the prosecution represents a serious precedent and a dangerous message for freedom of expression in Serbia. Criminal prosecution for a spoken political assessment or prediction about the possible consequences of social and political processes is not only disproportionate, but also illegal in the light of domestic and international norms that guarantee freedom of thought and speech.
IJAS reminds that journalists, public intellectuals and analysts are obliged to point out problems in society, and that institutions must guarantee a safe environment for their free expression. Instead, we are witnessing increasingly frequent attempts to silence critical voices through judicial abuse and selective application of the law.
In a democratic society, disagreement with the stated position must not be grounds for criminal prosecution. IJAS warns that such moves by state authorities have the effect of intimidating and deterring public engagement, thereby further collapsing the space for public debate.
We call on the competent institutions to immediately stop actions that may represent a direct attack on freedom of expression, to act in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of Serbia and the obligations assumed by international documents, as well as to stop stifling democratic dialogue in society.
IJAS expresses solidarity with Dejan Ilić and his right to express his views freely and responsibly, even when they are provocative, while reminding that pluralism of opinion is the basis of every free and democratic community.
Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia (IJAS),
Belgrade, April 10, 2025
