The SafeJournalists Network strongly condemns the attack on “Politički Globus” journalist Darko Simić and demands that the police finally ensure the unobstructed work of journalists when covering events of public interest.
During a civil protest in New Belgrade, while the protest column was passing by the premises of the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), in front of which another group of citizens was gathered, several journalists were standing nearby, filming the event. At one point, an individual from the group gathered in front of the SNS premises ran toward journalist Simić, who had his press card visibly displayed, punched him in the face, and pushed him, shouting: “What are you filming?”
The Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia (IJAS) reminds that physical attacks on journalists constitute unlawful behavior and a direct assault on media freedom. The frequency of attacks on journalists and media workers while reporting on events, often without any consequences for the attackers, is alarming. We remind the authorities that it is the police’s duty to ensure safe working conditions for journalists and media workers covering public events, as well as to immediately respond in the event of attacks, in accordance with their legal obligations. Any failure to do so seriously jeopardizes media freedoms and the right to information.
In this specific case, Simić immediately approached a police officer, who initially told him to report the incident at the nearest police station, but later took his information and stated that the procedure would be initiated.
The SafeJournalists Network calls on the competent institutions to conduct a swift, independent, and effective investigation of this incident and, in accordance with the law, sanction the perpetrator. A timely, decisive, and transparent response from the authorities is necessary to send a clear and unequivocal message that any violence against media workers is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. The protection of journalists is a cornerstone of a free and democratic society, and the state is obliged to guarantee their safety while they carry out their work in the public interest.
The SafeJournalists Network will inform national and international stakeholders about this incident and will continue to monitor the situation.
Every attack on journalists is an attack on democracy, the public interest, and fundamental human rights.
Pristina – Skopje – Sarajevo – Zagreb – Beograd – Podgorica, 06.08.2025.
Croatian Journalists’ Association
Association of Journalists of Kosovo
Association of Journalists of Macedonia
BH Journalists Association
Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia
Trade Union of Media of Montenegro
