A joint international mission on media freedom was conducted in Serbia on 26–27 March 2026, led by partner organizations of the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR) and the Council of Europe Platform for the Protection of Journalism and Safety of Journalists. The initiative reflects mounting international concern over deteriorating press conditions in the country.

The mission takes place amid a complex political and social environment marked by increasing pressure on independent journalism. Concerns have intensified following nationwide protests triggered by the Novi Sad tragedy on 1 November 2024, which reportedly saw a rise in hostility toward journalists covering public demonstrations.

Recent assessments, including the 2025 Europe Press Freedom Report and the MFRR Monitoring Report, highlight persistent challenges to media pluralism, editorial independence, and journalist safety. These reports indicate a pattern of both physical and legal pressures on media professionals, raising broader questions about democratic governance and institutional accountability in Serbia.

Key Issues Under Review

The delegation’s agenda focuses on several critical areas:

• Violence against journalists, particularly during protest coverage
• The growing use of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs)
• Continued impunity in cases of murdered journalists
• Allegations of media capture and political influence
• Concerns regarding the independence of media regulators and public broadcasters
• Investigations into the use of spyware against journalists
• Rising digital threats and online harassment

These issues collectively point to systemic vulnerabilities in Serbia’s media environment, with implications for freedom of expression and public access to information.

Engagement and Objectives

During their visit to Belgrade, the delegation is expected to engage with a broad range of stakeholders, including journalists, government officials, civil society actors, and international representatives. The mission builds upon a previous solidarity visit in April 2025, which explored potential reforms to enhance journalist protection.

The delegation includes representatives from globally recognized organizations such as Committee to Protect Journalists, Reporters Without Borders, and the European Federation of Journalists, among others. Their collective expertise underscores the international dimension of the concerns being addressed.

Symbolic Conclusion

The mission will conclude with a press conference on 27 March 2026, held at the memorial of Slavko Ćuruvija in Belgrade. The choice of venue highlights the enduring issue of impunity for crimes against journalists, a central concern for press freedom advocates.

Outlook

The findings of the mission are expected to contribute to ongoing international dialogue on media reform and democratic resilience in Serbia. As global attention to press freedom intensifies, the outcomes may influence both domestic policy discussions and Serbia’s broader engagement with European institutions.