The Rule of Law and the Importance of Free Media
The rule of law is a fundamental principle enshrined in the Constitution, based on inalienable human rights. It is upheld through free and direct elections, constitutional guarantees of human and minority rights, the separation of powers, an independent judiciary, and the obligation of authorities to adhere to the Constitution and legal frameworks. At its core, the rule of law ensures that all individuals are subject to the law, regardless of status or position. It serves as a safeguard against arbitrary power, protecting citizens from authoritarian decisions that lack a legal foundation.
Media Freedom: A Legal Right and Its Challenges
The legal framework governing media freedom explicitly guarantees the right to gather, publish, and receive information without interference. This includes the freedom to form and express ideas, print and distribute newspapers, and produce and disseminate audio-visual content. Furthermore, it ensures that information can flow freely via the internet and other platforms. Public information must remain free from censorship, and discrimination against media editors, journalists, and individuals based on political beliefs or personal characteristics is strictly prohibited.
However, despite these legal guarantees, media freedom in practice often falls short due to political and economic pressures. Pro-government media dominance, financial dependencies, and censorship create an environment where independent journalism struggles to survive. Many journalists are pressured to avoid certain topics or risk losing their jobs. In more extreme cases, those investigating corruption face intimidation, with some even encountering physical threats and violence. The unresolved case of Slavko Ćuruvija remains one of the most notorious examples—after openly criticizing the Milošević regime’s handling of the Kosovo war, he was placed under constant surveillance and ultimately assassinated in 1999. His death serves as a painful reminder of the risks journalists face when challenging political power in Serbia.
The Consequences of a Compromised Media
When the press is controlled or heavily influenced by the government, citizens are deprived of unbiased information. Government-aligned media outlets often spread propaganda and misinformation, shaping public opinion to serve political interests. This undermines the fundamental democratic principle that citizens have the right to accurate and timely information.
Without independent media scrutiny, corruption thrives, institutions become less transparent, and public trust erodes. Journalists who investigate corruption and abuse of power are frequently discredited, threatened, or worse. The consequences of media suppression extend beyond politics, affecting everyday life—one tragic example being the collapse of a poorly maintained structure in Novi Sad, which resulted in fatalities due to a lack of oversight and accountability.
Steps Toward Improvement
Protecting and strengthening media freedom requires more than just legal frameworks—it demands active enforcement and institutional commitment. Journalists must be shielded from threats and violence with legal protections that are not just theoretical but consistently upheld. Independent media outlets need reliable funding sources that are free from political influence, allowing them to operate without financial coercion.
Equally important is fostering media literacy among citizens, enabling them to critically assess news sources and resist misinformation. A well-informed public is the best safeguard against propaganda and media manipulation. Meanwhile, the international community has a vital role to play in advocating for press freedom, offering diplomatic support, and ensuring that independent journalism continues to thrive despite growing pressures.
Conclusion
Media freedom in Serbia remains under significant threat, undermining the rule of law and democratic principles. Without a free press, the ability to hold authorities accountable diminishes, leading to weakened institutions, legal uncertainty, and broader societal issues. Urgent reforms are necessary to safeguard journalistic integrity, protect reporters, and ensure a diverse and independent media landscape. Only through these efforts can democracy and the rule of law be fully upheld.
