**Media Freedom Under Attack in Serbia**
A pillar of democracy, media freedom is under siege in Serbia. Following historic protests last weekend, the government has intensified its crackdown on independent media.
**Intimidation and Disinformation**
The Serbian government has used state-backed disinformation, intimidation tactics, and commercial pressure to undermine journalistic integrity. Independent outlets have been directly targeted by a government-led smear campaign designed to delegitimize independent reporting and restrict public access to truthful information.
**Protests and Media Freedom**
Between 9-15 March, President Aleksandar Vucic and Speaker of Parliament Ana Brnabic publicly labeled independent channels such as N1, a CNN affiliate, and Nova S as “enemies of Serbia.” Pro-government media falsely reported that a United Media (owner of N1 and Nova S) employee attacked Minister Nikola Selakovic. Meanwhile, government-affiliated networks systematically harass UM journalists online.
**A Test for Europe**
Serbia is an EU candidate country, and one of the fundamental requirements for accession is media freedom. Yet, despite the clear and growing assault on independent journalism, Brussels has largely remained silent. The European Commission’s routine statements of concern are not enough.
**EU Must Act**
With European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen set to meet President Vucic next week, this moment presents a critical opportunity for the EU to address the erosion of media freedom in Serbia. The EU must condition Serbia’s EU accession on media freedom, hold Serbia accountable for attacks on journalists, demand independent regulatory oversight, and engage European businesses and investors.
**A Call to Action**
Europe’s leaders must decide: Will they continue issuing weak statements while another country slides into authoritarianism, or will they take decisive action to protect fundamental democratic values? The crackdown on independent media in Serbia is escalating. The EU must intervene before the window for meaningful action closes.
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