editor in chief of the media portal „Pravo u centar“ –
editor of the digital magazine rEUconnecting – REUC
Introduction
Local non-profit and independent media in Serbia face serious challenges threatening their existence and their role as pillars of a democratic society. In the 2024 report by Reporters Without Borders, Serbia was ranked 98th out of 180 countries, marking its worst position since the launch of the World Press Freedom Index in 2002. Pavol Szalai, head of the EU-Balkan desk at Reporters Without Borders, stated that threats against journalists, political pressure, impunity for attacks, and financial struggles are key factors behind this dramatic decline.
Factors Behind the Decline of Free Local Media
Political Pressure and Journalist Safety
One of the core problems is the open targeting of journalists by political elites. Senior government officials often label journalists as ‘traitors,’ ‘foreign agents,’ or ‘enemies of the state.’ Such rhetoric fosters a hostile environment for free journalism. According to the Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia (NUNS), more than 130 cases of attacks, threats, and pressures against journalists were recorded in 2023.
SLAPP Lawsuits and Legal Insecurity
Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP) are increasingly used as a tool to intimidate and financially exhaust media outlets. Journalists and editorial teams face high legal costs and potentially huge damages that threaten the survival of smaller, particularly local and non-profit, media organizations.
Financial Discrimination
Local non-profit media are practically excluded from the state system of co-financing public interest media projects. Although the Law on Public Information mandates grant competitions, funds are often awarded to pro-government media, while independent outlets are marginalized.
Propaganda Spread
In addition to financial and safety issues, another challenge is the increasing spread of propaganda narratives, including Russian propaganda, due to inadequate regulation and control.
Legal Framework and Its (Non-)Implementation
Key Laws
– The Law on Public Information and Media guarantees freedom of expression.
– The Law on Electronic Media regulates REM.
– The Criminal Code provides special protection for journalists.
Practical Issues
The enforcement of these laws is selective; institutions often fail to respond promptly or at all, while prosecution of attacks drags on or concludes without results.
Consequences for Society
The shutdown of local media leads to reduced pluralism, decreased transparency, erosion of democratic processes, and weakened opposition visibility.
Proposed Solutions for the Survival and Strengthening of Local Independent Media in Serbia
1. Reform of the Financing System
– Transparent and fair allocation of public funds
– Creation of special funds for local and non-profit media
– Tax incentives for donors and advertisers
2. Protection of Journalists and Legal Security
– Faster and more efficient prosecution of attacks
– Legal protection against SLAPP lawsuits
3. Strengthening the Capacity of Local Media
– Easier access to international funding
– Training programs and technical support
4. Strengthening Regulatory Bodies
– Complete depoliticization of REM
– Regular monitoring and reporting
5. Encouraging Solidarity Among Media Outlets
– Formation of networks of local independent media
– Joint campaigns to promote free journalism
6. Greater Role for Civil Society and Citizens
– Citizen education on media literacy
– Campaigns for citizen subscriptions and donations
Conclusion
The survival of local, non-profit, and independent media in Serbia demands urgent and systemic change. Without transparent financing, robust legal protections, depoliticization of regulatory bodies, and greater citizen engagement, the current trend of media shutdowns and freedom erosion will continue. Strengthening these media outlets is not merely a matter of professional survival but a vital investment in the democratic future of Serbia.
