In light of the recent incident in which a journalist from Istinomer was physically attacked while performing her professional duties in front of the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia, the Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia (IJAS) strongly condemns this act of violence against a media representative.
The journalist was, as part of her assignment and in the public interest, recording tents that had been set up across from the National Assembly, aiming to inform the public about who the people staying in them are, in whose name they are speaking, and what the purpose of their presence is.
While filming, although identified as a journalist with proper accreditation, she was physically attacked by an unknown man who struck her on the arm and knocked the phone out of her hand. In this way, she was violently prevented from carrying out her journalistic work.
After the incident, the journalist approached a police officer who was present at the scene. Instead of taking protective measures and documenting the assault, the officer merely stated: “Take care, they treat us the same way.” Such a comment, along with the lack of any concrete response, represents an unacceptable failure in an official’s conduct and further endangers the safety of journalists on the ground.
We remind the public and the authorities that journalists are afforded special protection under Article 138a of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Serbia, which prescribes stricter penalties for attacks against journalists while performing tasks of public importance.
IJAS calls on the competent authorities to urgently identify and prosecute the attacker, and to investigate the conduct of the police officer for failing to act in accordance with legal obligations and duties.
IJAS urges all institutions to ensure a safe working environment for journalists, free from pressure, threats, and physical attacks, so that citizens can fully exercise their right to timely and accurate information. We will continue to monitor this case and offer full support to the attacked journalist and all colleagues facing similar forms of pressure.
Belgrade, April 15, 2025.
