Serbian journalist: Media division reflects autocratic regime

The current media environment in Serbia is characterized by deep division and antagonism, a direct consequence of the regime's nature, according to N1 journalist Danica Vučenić. She explained that while media polarization existed in the 1990s, the digital age has introduced significant differences in how media operates and communicates with the public.

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The division of the media scene and the antagonism that exists between pro-government media in relation to critical and professional media is a consequence of the character of the regime we are in.

Vučenić stated that Serbia exists in an environment lacking democracy, where institutions are non-functional, and the rule of law and media freedoms are severely curtailed. "We are stealing those small fragments of freedom so we can work, while simultaneously enduring attacks," she said, referring to the constant pressure faced by critical and professional media outlets.

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We are stealing those small fragments of freedom so we can work, while simultaneously enduring attacks.

She identified pro-government media as essentially acting as the ruling party's "agitprop," exclusively serving the needs and expectations of President Aleksandar Vučić and the Serbian Progressive Party. Vučenić argued that this situation stems not from a lack of regulatory bodies but from the autocratic system itself, which she described as bordering on dictatorship. This environment, she noted, is hostile to democracy, media freedom, and critical discourse.

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The head of this government, the head of all heads of this government, was a politician during the nineties. He was the Minister of Information, during his mandate Slavko Ćuruvija was killed. He is here today. He does not love democracy, he despises media freedom and does not tolerate critical speech.

Vučenić pointed out that the "division of media originates from the top." Professional media are fighting for greater freedom and wider reach, while being systematically cut off from official information sources for years. She acknowledged the risks inherent in journalism in countries like Serbia, where journalists are targeted, attacked, and despised. Despite these challenges, Vučenić affirmed her commitment to ethical and professional standards, refusing to let safety concerns inhibit her work.

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If we have chosen to engage in this profession, then we will do it in accordance with the ethical code and professional criteria. I will not allow myself to think about my own safety in a way that inhibits me in my work.