**Press Freedom in Serbia at a “Dangerous Turning Point”**
Independent media outlets in Serbia are facing increasing pressure from the government, according to a group of senior editors. They warn that press freedom is at a “dangerous turning point”.
The editors, who work for publications within the United Media group, say their reporters are being harassed, physically attacked, and subjected to smear campaigns after reporting on protests against President Aleksandar Vucic.
The protests have been going on for four months, following the collapse of a concrete train station canopy in Novi Sad last November. The incident killed 16 people and sparked widespread outrage.
**Violence Against Journalists**
Several N1 journalists have been targeted by protesters while reporting on the demonstrations. Zaklina Tatalovic and her cameraperson Nikola Popovic were harassed, and journalist Jelena Mirkovic was attacked and suffered a neck injury.
The editors warn that the government is using false accusations to discredit independent media outlets. They say financial and regulatory pressures are also being applied to force away advertisers and business partners.
**Growing Hostility**
The editors express concern for the safety of their reporters on the ground, citing the growing hostility towards independent media. They claim that violence against journalists is not only allowed but encouraged by the government.
In response to these concerns, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has urged the EU to condemn a raid on the offices of an NGO fact-checking website.
**Serbia’s Press Freedom Index**
According to RSF, Serbia ranks 98th out of 180 countries and territories in terms of press freedom. This is its lowest ranking in 22 years.
The article from The Guardian highlights the growing tensions between independent media outlets and the government in Serbia. It also reports on an online petition calling for an investigation into whether security forces used a sonic weapon during a rally on March 15th.
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