BFMI Statement on the EU’s Response to Serbia’s Protests: A Call for Clearer Action on supporting Media Freedom through the Rule of Law
Serbia is experiencing an unprecedented wave of civic protests, driven by a broad demand for the rule of law, independent institutions, and media freedom. These demonstrations reflect a deep and growing public concern over governance, transparency, and fundamental democratic values.
At the core of these protests is the demand for functional democratic institutions, judicial independence, and a free and pluralistic media environment, as a key enabler of the rule of law. The EU’s clear-cut support for the role of free media and independent public service media at this point could make a critical contribution to the positive evolution of Serbian society.
Media Freedom and Institutional Independence at Risk
Press freedom is a central concern in Serbia’s democratic trajectory. Independent journalism faces increasing pressures, with journalists covering protests reporting incidents of intimidation and violence. Meanwhile, the public broadcaster RTS took weeks to report on the protests, raising questions about its editorial independence. Since RTS has shown signs of independent journalism it has been viciously criticized by the ruling party. The regulatory body REM, which plays a key role in ensuring media pluralism, has also faced concerns regarding transparency and political influence.
The European Commission’s 2024 Progress Report has already highlighted persistent challenges in media freedom, judicial independence, and the fight against corruption. These concerns remain unaddressed, and the current protests signal a critical moment for reform.
BFMI’s Recommendations to the European Union
To support democratic principles, media freedom, and the rule of law in Serbia, the EU should consider:
→ Supporting independent journalism by closely monitoring attacks on journalists and ensuring that media freedom remains a core element of Serbia’s EU accession process.
→ Encouraging transparency in media regulation by urging reforms in REM and ensuring that RTS operates as an independent public service broadcaster.
→ Ensuring that judicial and media reforms remain a priority in Serbia’s EU accession framework, with clear benchmarks for progress.
→ Acknowledging the significance of these protests as a reflection of widespread public demand for reforms in line with European norms.
BFMI's Director, Antoinette Nikolova, comments:
“The protests in Serbia highlight the urgent need for strong democratic institutions, independent journalism, and judicial reforms. Citizens are calling for accountability, and the European Union has a key role to play in ensuring that democratic standards are upheld. A free press and rule of law are essential pillars of democracy, and it is important that these issues remain at the forefront of Serbia’s EU accession process.”
The Balkan Free Media Initiative remains committed to monitoring media developments, advocating for press freedom, and supporting efforts to strengthen democracy in Serbia and the wider region. We urge European institutions to take this moment as an opportunity to reaffirm their commitment to democratic values and media independence.
The Balkan Free Media Initiative (BFMI) is a Brussels-based independent organisation founded to address the gap in advocacy and accountability on media freedom issues in Southeastern Europe.
