IJAS: Urgent Reaction Needed to Threats Against Marko Vidojković

The Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia (IJAS) strongly condemns the threats and offensive messages posted on social media against Marko Vidojković, co-author of the show “Good, Bad, Evil”.

 

A Facebook account under the name “Predrag Nenad” sent a series of insults, disturbing messages, and direct threats of violence targeting Vidojković and members of his family. One of the messages, among other things, reads:

 

“When I see you, you’ll get it… But sneakily… from behind…”

 

Such messages represent an unacceptable attack on freedom of expression and the personal safety of journalists and must not be downplayed as “verbal disputes” or “personal opinions.”

 

According to the IJAS database, which records pressures on journalists and media, several threats have been reported against Marko Vidojković, most of which remain unresolved. Since the beginning of 2025, IJAS has recorded 122 threats directed at journalists and media outlets because of their professional work.

 

Journalists most often receive threats due to disagreement with how they report on issues of public interest. These attacks are typically preceded by public targeting by high-ranking political officials and smear campaigns in pro-government media. Vidojković was recently targeted by anonymous leaflets distributed in Belgrade and other cities, depicting him with a “bloody hand” and accusing him of organizing a “color revolution.”

 

Such statements and campaigns are extremely dangerous and endanger journalists’ safety. IJAS recalls that Marko Vidojković was previously forced to leave the country due to repeated threats and the failure of competent institutions to provide adequate protection — he received assistance only from international organizations.

 

IJAS calls on the competent authorities, including the police and prosecution, to urgently initiate an investigation, identify the person behind the account, take all legal measures to ensure the safety of Marko Vidojković, and bring the perpetrator to justice. The authorities must also resolve previous cases that have been reported.

 

The Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia remains steadfast in defending journalists’ safety, freedom of expression, and the public’s right to be informed. No threat — verbal, written, or digital — must go unpunished.

 

Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia
Belgrade, October 17, 2025

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