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Censorship allegations in Balkan cultural sectors

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2026-08-27 16:11 UTC → 2026-08-29 12:17 UTC · added ~~removed~~

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. ~~Following~~ 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, ~~Mićanović~~ he left the country, leading to the cancellation of Prime Minister Milojko Spajić’s planned participation. Minister of Culture Tamara Vujović defended the decision, ~~stating that~~ characterizing it as an “organizer’s responsibility toward the ~~festival is a state-level cultural event that should focus on film~~ character of the event” and ~~art rather than importing~~ stating that political ~~conflicts.~~ 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. ~~The incident has drawn sharp condemnation from civil society organizations, film directors,~~ Critics, including Nenad Čanak and ~~former festival selector Sead Šabotić, who characterized~~ actor Darko Tomović, have condemned the move as ~~a “classic example of censorship.” The debate has since expanded to the Montenegrin Parliament, sparking discussions regarding the independence of cultural institutions and~~ censorship, arguing the ~~role of~~ decision serves to avoid political friction with the ~~public service broadcaster, RTCG.~~ Serbian government.

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