The SafeJournalists Network strongly condemns the aggressive, insulting and defamatory rhetoric used by Kemal S. Beganović, advisor to the member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina Željko Komšić, against Ivica Puljić, correspondent of Federal Television (FTV) from Washington.
In a series of posts on the social media platform X, Beganović resorted to degrading language and baseless accusations in an apparent attempt to discredit Puljić’s professional work and personal integrity. Particularly alarming are references that place the journalist within narratives associated with war crimes in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which represents a dangerous misuse of historical trauma to target and intimidate media professionals.
The SafeJournalists Network stresses that invoking such narratives by an individual holding a responsible position within the Presidency of BiH is not only deeply irresponsible, but also fuels ethnic division and intolerance within the society. Associating a journalist with ideologies linked to crimes prosecuted before the International criminal tribunal in Hague goes beyond defamation and creates a hostile environment that may seriously endanger the safety and dignity of the targeted individual.
Attacks of this nature constitute a direct threat to media freedom and accountability in a democratic society. They also raise serious concerns about political pressure on Federal Television (FTV), undermining its role as a public service broadcaster and eroding public trust in independent journalism.
It is especially troubling that such conduct originates from an individual closely linked to the highest state institutions. Advisors to public officials carry not only influence but also responsibility. Their public communication should reflect a commitment to dialogue, respect, and the protection of fundamental rights, not contribute to a climate of hostility toward journalists.
The SafeJournalists Network therefore calls on Mr. Željko Komšić to clearly and unequivocally distance himself from these statements and to take concrete measures to ensure that such behavior is not repeated. Silence in such cases risks being interpreted as tacit approval. We further call on all public officials in Bosnia and Herzegovina to refrain from targeting journalists and to actively contribute to safeguarding their independence and security.
The SafeJournalists Network will continue to closely follow this case. We stand in solidarity with our colleagues from Bosnia and Herzegovina who face pressure, intimidation or attacks as a result of their professional work.
Every attack on journalists is an attack on democracy, the public interest, and fundamental human rights.
Pristina – Skopje – Sarajevo – Zagreb – Belgrade – Podgorica – Tirana, April 02, 2026
Association of Journalists of Kosovo
Association of Macedonian Journalists
Croatian Journalists’ Association
BH Journalists Association
Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia
Trade Union of Media of Montenegro
