Most journalists in Montenegro face constant pressures while performing their duties, with these pressures coming from multiple sources and in various forms, according to the conclusion of the conference “Journalism in Montenegro: A Profession Facing Growing Divisions and Pressures,” organized by UZOR today in Podgorica.
The Executive Director of UZOR, Danko Jokanović, stated that we live in a reality where the media is silenced through public accusations, journalists are attacked, and the perpetrators remain unknown or unpunished.
The Regional Director for Southeast Europe at the Hanns Seidel Foundation, Klaus Fisinger, emphasized that media freedom is a crucial factor for democracy and the rule of law.
“Journalists have the right to inform the public about current affairs without restrictions or pressures…” he said, adding that it is important to follow guidelines that will help improve the position of journalists in Montenegro.
Mihailo Jovović, President of the Commission for Monitoring Investigations of Attacks on Journalists, pointed out that journalists are pressured by everyone—from politicians and businessmen to criminals—depending on the area they are reporting on. However, Jovović noted that there is currently greater political will from the authorities to investigate these attacks, as well as growing awareness among the police and prosecutors that these cases must be resolved as quickly as possible.
Neđeljko Rudović, Director of the Media Directorate, argued that pressures on journalists will never completely cease, despite the aspiration to become a more emancipated society.
“Examples from the most developed countries teach us that pressure on journalists is, unfortunately, something that is to be expected,” Rudović said, adding that media freedom is never a fully won victory and must be defended every day.
Lawyer Maja Živković stated that journalists not only suffer damage to their reputation but also face a decline in their quality of life due to a lack of adequate protection.
Boris Raonić, General Director of RTCG, clarified that not every interaction with someone in a position of power constitutes pressure on journalists. He identified violence as a serious issue in Montenegro and emphasized the importance of intensive communication and awareness among journalists about their role in society.
Marijana Kadić Bojanić, Executive Director of Daily Press, said it is crucial to question how editors work with journalists and whether they are adequately prepared to face pressures.
“UZOR’s research has shown that most pressures come from politicians. Politicians very often complain even about the photos we publish…” said Kadić Bojanić.
Sonja Drobac, Director of Television E, noted that journalism is not about achieving consensus among interlocutors and that “it never will be.”
“There is no balance when it comes to violence. It doesn’t exist, and that’s the ‘A’ of the alphabet. Zero tolerance. That is the first step we must take,” said Drobac.
