Media Network Safe Journalists Condemns Threats Against KoSSev, N1, and Journalist Tamara Skrozza

SafeJournalists, an organization dedicated to protecting journalists’ rights, has condemned recent threats directed at the editorial team of the KoSSev portal, journalist Tamara Skrozza, and the N1 television network.

The KoSSev editorial office has been receiving threatening messages via Facebook since September, originating from a single profile. The latest message, sent this week, ominously states, “You won’t be here much longer…” accompanied by profanities. The Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia (NUNS) has reported these threats to the relevant authorities.

N1 Journalists Targeted

SafeJournalists also reported threats against N1 journalists, particularly in response to a news story about Rio Tinto. The threat included a comment reading, “But we’re waiting for you and will film when the time comes… Everything is remembered, once a TRAITOR, always a TRAITOR.” The individual further declared a willingness to “die for Aleksandar Vučić,” and suggested that N1 should broadcast the funerals of its employees live. NUNS has similarly reported these threats to the appropriate institutions.

Tamara Skrozza Under Attack

Journalist Tamara Skrozza, who serves as the deputy editor of the Fonet news agency, has faced attacks following remarks she made on the TV N1 program „If I were sombeody“ earlier this year. Skrozza had commented on the events of October 5, 2000, suggesting that if those events had been different, Serbia’s current situation would be markedly different. She did not mention President Aleksandar Vučić, nor did she advocate for his assassination.

However, misinformation emerged as an unsigned article, published on informer.rs and novosti.rs, falsely accused Skrozza of calling for an attack on the President. This was followed by a negative media campaign, including reports on TV Pink and other pro-government outlets. SafeJournalists argues that these reports are part of an orchestrated campaign against Skrozza, which has been amplified by fabricated content, including a false headline attributing controversial statements to Professor Rade Veljanovski.

Minister’s Statement Criticized

SafeJournalists also condemned a recent statement from the Serbian Ministry of Information and Telecommunications. The ministry’s statement, which referenced tabloid publications, labeled Skrozza’s remarks as “hate speech” and “incitement to violence.” The Coalition for Media Freedom criticized this stance, arguing it reflects a deep misunderstanding of freedom of speech and undermines the safety of journalists. They warn that such statements could facilitate further harassment and danger to Skrozzi and other critical media workers.

Call for Action

SafeJournalists has called on authorities to swiftly identify and penalize those making threats on social media. They urge government officials to refrain from inciting further hostility towards journalists, highlighting the severe consequences such campaigns can have.

The recent spate of threats and misinformation underscores the increasing risks faced by journalists in Serbia. As these cases develop, it is crucial for both media organizations and governmental bodies to uphold principles of free expression and ensure the safety of those who work to uphold them.