Igor Božić - photo Medija Centar Beograd
Amid a systematic erosion of editorial independence by the government, stronger international support is needed to uphold media freedom in the country. An interview with Igor Božić, news director of the independent N1 TV
Since taking power, Aleksandar Vučić’s regime has significantly undermined editorial independence by strategically taking control of national TV channels and tabloids. Such control is reinforced by financial manipulation, state-sponsored advertising, and legal intimidation tactics, including SLAPPs (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation), which place heavy burdens on independent media.
Media capture not only stifles journalistic freedom but also shapes public perception by promoting pro-regime narratives and portraying independent media as state enemies.
OBCT met with Igor Bozic, news director of independent N1 TV Serbia to discuss the threats, both digital and physical, that journalists endure and the resilience required to maintain journalistic integrity amidst these adversities.
What do you think are the main challenges to editorial independence in Serbia?
The main challenge is the regime's control over the media. Since taking power, Aleksandar Vučić's regime has taken over national TV frequencies and tabloids, leaving only a few independent outlets like N1 and Nova. Most independent media are financed through donations or are part of the United Media Group, funded by cable subscriptions.
How does the government exert its control and influence over the media sector?
In general, the government portrays independent media as state enemies, creating a dangerous environment for journalists.
More specifically, the regime controls media through financing, primarily via state advertisers like Telekom Serbia, which sponsors national and smaller TV channels. Telekom has also attempted to lure journalists away from independent media by offering higher salaries. For example, Telekom Serbia bought the license for Euronews, Newsmax and Bloomberg and they basically jumped into the market offering a much bigger salary than we can offer. We will soon have a Russia Today TV channel with even bigger paychecks. All of them are financed from the government, either Serbian or the Russian one.
What kind of threats are journalists exposed to?
Journalists face electronic threats on social media, physical attacks during demonstrations, and public smears by government officials, who often refuse to answer questions from independent journalists, further isolating them.
These attacks create a stressful environment, sometimes leading journalists to seek therapy. Despite these challenges, we strive to maintain professional standards and not succumb to self-censorship.
How do legal threats impact independent media?
Independent media face legal threats (SLAPPs) aimed at intimidating and financially burdening them. For instance, Millennium Team and Telekom have sued N1 for reporting on their activities, demanding exorbitant damages, which adds to the pressure on independent media. These legal battles are time-consuming and financially draining, but we continue to fight them to uphold our editorial independence.
How does media capture affect the general public's perception of the media?
The public is increasingly influenced by pro-Russian propaganda and anti-European narratives promoted by the regime. Media capture results in a brainwashed public, especially among older generations who rely on television for information. The regime's narrative dominates, presenting independent media as traitors and enemies of the state, which many people believe due to the lack of alternative sources.
What about the European and international community's response?
The international community's response has been weak. European Union representatives express concern privately but rarely criticize the government publicly, fearing backlash and halted diplomatic conversations. This lack of strong international intervention exacerbates the problem.
The European Union needs to be more assertive. They must prioritize media freedom and democratic standards in their dealings with Serbia. Current efforts are insufficient, and the regime continues to undermine these values while benefiting from EU funds.
How do you manage to remain optimistic and continue your work under such conditions?
This commitment and the belief that truth and integrity matter keep us going. Despite the challenging environment, N1 remains committed to professional journalism. We hope for change and continue to fight for media freedom, knowing that our work is essential for a democratic society.
However, the lack of significant support from the European Union and continuous government pressure make it difficult to see a positive outcome soon. Public support for European integration is declining, and pro-Russian sentiment is increasing, complicating the situation further.
What message would you like to convey to the public and the international community?
Media freedom is crucial for democracy. We need the public and the international community to stand with us, support independent journalism, and hold the regime accountable. Together, we can create a more transparent and democratic society.
This publication is the result of activities carried out within the Media Freedom Rapid Response and within ATLIB - Transnational Advocacy for Freedom of Information in the Western Balkans, a project co-funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. All opinions expressed represent the views of their author and not those of the co-funding institutions.
