The Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia (IJAS) strongly condemns the gathering of members and supporters of a political party in front of the newsroom of the Storyteller portal in Kulpin, just before the panel discussion on social divisions and the role of the media. Such actions represent an unacceptable form of pressure and intimidation of journalists and participants of a public event, as well as a direct obstruction of their work.
It is particularly concerning that such activities are deliberately organized at the time and place of an event intended to encourage dialogue and the exchange of opinions on important social issues. This practice points to increasingly present and sophisticated forms of pressure on the media and journalists, which are manifested not only through direct threats, but also through attempts to create an atmosphere of discomfort, fear, and public pressure.
IJAS reminds that the freedom of journalists to work and the right to organize public events without interference are among the fundamental principles of a democratic society. Any attempt to intimidate journalists or obstruct them in performing their duties constitutes a serious violation of these principles and must be met with clear and unequivocal condemnation.
We call on the competent institutions to respond and ensure that journalists and media workers can perform their work without pressure or fear. We also appeal to all political actors to refrain from actions that may endanger the safety and professional integrity of journalists. Furthermore, we call on the leadership of the political party whose members and supporters organized this gathering to publicly condemn such behavior and take steps to prevent its recurrence.
IJAS will continue to monitor this situation and provide support to colleagues from the Storyteller newsroom.
Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia
Belgrade, April 29, 2026
