# Censorship allegations in Balkan cultural sectors

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/censorship-allegations-in-balkan-cultural-sectors
> Updated: 2026-08-27T16:56:27.000Z. Sources: 24. Developments: 3.

Allegations of censorship and threats to freedom of expression have surfaced in the Balkan region involving prominent cultural figures. In Serbia, former minister Vladan Vukosavljević criticized the censorship of filmmaker Emir Kusturica, describing the situation as a “global shame” and an “inquisition” that reflects a resurgence of totalitarian tendencies.

In Montenegro, the 39th Film Festival in Herceg Novi has become a focal point of controversy following the prevention of Serbian actor Dragan Mićanović from delivering his opening speech. Reports indicate that the Ministry of Culture and Media and local authorities blocked the address because it contained political critiques regarding the Serbian government and the regional political climate. Mićanović stated he had submitted the text to organizers specifically for translation and subtitling purposes, but following his refusal to comply with requests to edit the speech, he left the country, leading to the cancellation of Prime Minister Milojko Spajić’s planned participation.

Minister of Culture Tamara Vujović defended the decision, characterizing it as an “organizer’s responsibility toward the character of the event” and stating that political speeches do not belong at artistic festivals. She emphasized that Montenegro is a mature state that does not wish to be a “political megaphone” for external disputes. Conversely, Milan Knežević of the Democratic People's Party (DNP) argued the speech was a “classic political speech” rather than an artistic one. Critics, including Nenad Čanak and actor Darko Tomović, have condemned the move as censorship, arguing the decision serves to avoid political friction with the Serbian government.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-27: Dragan Mićanović speech ban sparks censorship debate in Montenegro

Actor Dragan Mićanović’s speech was barred at the Herceg Novi Film Festival, sparking censorship debates in Montenegro, while Jean-Claude Van Damme attended the Niš Film Festival in Serbia as a guest.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dragan-mianovi-speech-ban-at-montenegro-film-festival-sparks-censorship-debate

### 2026-08-25: Montenegro Film Festival faces censorship row over actor's speech

Serbian actor Dragan Mićanović was barred from opening the Montenegro Film Festival after officials deemed his speech too political, sparking widespread accusations of censorship.

18 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/montenegro-actor-alleges-censorship-at-herceg-novi-film-festival

### 2026-08-21: Vladan Vukosavljević criticizes censorship of Emir Kusturica

Former minister Vladan Vukosavljević has criticized the censorship of filmmaker Emir Kusturica, calling it a “global shame” and a sign of modern totalitarian tendencies.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vladan-vukosavljevi-criticizes-censorship-of-emir-kusturica

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Cite as: Censorship allegations in Balkan cultural sectors. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/censorship-allegations-in-balkan-cultural-sectors