EU Ministers Urged to Address Serbia's Media Freedom Crisis
MFRR reports show alarming deterioration in Serbia's media freedom ahead of EU discussions.
1EU Discussions on Rule of Law
Today, EU ministers are discussing the rule of law in candidate countries, with MFRR partners urging a focus on Serbia's deteriorating media freedom. The 2026 Rule of Law Report highlights concerns over political and economic influence on media, regulator independence, and journalist safety. MFRR's 2025 report recorded over twice as many cases compared to 2024, signaling a worsening situation. The EU is being called to hold Serbian authorities accountable for these issues.
2Rising Attacks on Journalists
As of September 2026, 250 media professionals and entities have been targeted in Serbia since the beginning of the year. MFRR has repeatedly called on Serbian authorities to stop targeting journalists and condemn attacks to end the culture of impunity. Physical attacks, threats, and smear campaigns against independent media labeled as 'enemies of the state' are at record levels. The situation has deteriorated significantly since MFRR's solidarity mission in April 2025.
3Media Capture and Impunity
Serbia is trapped in a downward spiral of violence against journalists, often perpetrated by those meant to protect them. Media capture, where independent outlets are portrayed as state enemies, is extensive. MFRR's March 2026 mission witnessed a serious decline in media freedom. The lack of democratic accountability due to these issues threatens Serbia's EU accession process, as media freedom is central to the rule of law.
4EU Stakeholder Actions Needed
MFRR is calling on EU stakeholders to take concrete actions to address Serbia's media freedom crisis. The 2026 Rule of Law Report and MFRR monitoring data provide evidence of the deteriorating situation. Without urgent intervention, the entrenched culture of impunity will persist, undermining Serbia's democratic progress. The EU's role in holding Serbian authorities accountable is critical to reversing this trend.
5Political and Economic Influence
The 2026 Rule of Law Report raises concerns over political and economic influence on Serbia's media. Independent media faces smear campaigns and threats, while the media regulator's independence is questioned. MFRR's reports highlight the need for systemic changes to protect journalists and ensure media freedom. These issues are central to Serbia's rule of law and EU accession prospects.
6Deterioration Since 2025
MFRR's 2025 report recorded over twice as many cases of media freedom violations compared to 2024. The situation has worsened, with 250 media professionals targeted in 2026 alone. The March 2026 mission confirmed the serious decline, noting increased physical attacks and threats. This trend underscores the urgent need for EU and Serbian authorities to act.
7Culture of Impunity
Serbia's culture of impunity allows attacks on journalists to go unpunished. MFRR has called for authorities to condemn these attacks and hold perpetrators accountable. The lack of action perpetuates violence and undermines media freedom. Ending this culture is essential for Serbia's democratic development and EU integration.
8Critical Juncture for Serbia
Serbia's media freedom crisis is at a critical juncture, with EU discussions highlighting rule of law concerns. MFRR's data and reports provide clear evidence of the deterioration. Without immediate action, the situation will continue to worsen, jeopardizing Serbia's democratic accountability and EU accession process. The EU must prioritize this issue in its engagement with Serbian authorities.
Original article: linkedin.com — EU Ministers Urged to Address Serbia's Media Freedom Crisis