Serbia sees sharp rise in threats against journalists and media outlets

International monitoring bodies reported a dramatic deterioration in media freedom in Serbia in 2026, citing increased attacks, arrests and legal actions against journalists. The World Press Freedom Index compiled by Reporters Without Borders highlighted an escalation of physical, legal and online assaults on media workers, while the International Federation of Journalists adopted a resolution condemning the situation.

The Independent Association of Journalists of Serbia (NUNS) issued a strong statement denouncing a series of threats directed at journalists from BIRN, the N1 news outlet, professors and lawyers. Anonymous messages sent via Instagram accounts such as “zoka2807” and signed as “Zoranc Cvijanovic” contained threatening language, including the phrase “Smrt N1” and references to a “black hand,” prompting calls for immediate state action and investigations into the perpetrators.

Both reports underscore concerns about digital surveillance, intimidation tactics, and the erosion of editorial independence, urging authorities to protect media workers and uphold freedom of expression.