Centre for Civic Education (CCE), on the occasion of Journalists’ Day in Montenegro, marked on 23 January, extends its congratulations to all journalists and media professionals who, often in extremely challenging circumstances, persist in providing professional public information and working in the interest of citizens.
At the same time, this occasion serves as an opportunity to draw attention to the complex context in which journalistic work is carried out in Montenegro today, a context significantly burdened by low incomes, excessive workloads, and limitations in basic professional working conditions. These factors also affect the quality of information reaching the public, as journalism without professional and economic security can hardly be fully free and responsible. Despite this, a large number of journalists continue to perform work of crucial importance to the public interest, representing one of the most important mechanisms for holding power to account, exposing abuses, and safeguarding democratic values.
Findings from public opinion research indicate high expectations among citizens regarding the journalistic profession. A survey conducted by CCE at the end of 2025, as part of the project “Media for Democracy: Strengthening the Independence of RTCG for the Future of Montenegro”, with the support of the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, shows that 73.5% of respondents believe that journalists should hold a professional licence, while 63.6% emphasise that journalists should be persons of integrity. At the same time, only 23.7% of citizens believe that journalists enjoy full autonomy in their work, while as many as 37.2% consider them susceptible to corruption.
CCE recalls that throughout 2025, we witnessed open pressures, public accusations, and the targeting of journalists and certain media outlets by representatives of the authorities. Particularly concerning is the fact that such messages repeatedly came from officials of a political party that forms part of the parliamentary majority, participates in the Government, and exerts significant influence over the security sector. Pressures emanating from positions of institutional power pose a direct threat to media freedom and contribute to an atmosphere of fear and mistrust.
The murder of the editor-in-chief of the daily Dan, Duško Jovanović, remains the gravest symbol of impunity for attacks against journalists. Two decades after this crime, the absence of full truth and accountability continues to weigh heavily on Montenegrin society. Without resolving this case, it is difficult to speak of genuine progress in the field of media freedom and journalists’ safety.
The shooting of journalist Olivera Lakić in 2018 remains one of the most serious indicators of the insufficient protection afforded to journalists in Montenegro. Prolonged court proceedings and the absence of a final verdict only further deepen public distrust in institutions.
CCE emphasises that media freedom cannot exist without an unequivocal institutional message that attacks against journalists are unacceptable and will be sanctioned. Equally important is the creation of conditions in which journalists can work with dignity, without fear for their safety or livelihood. Therefore, Journalists’ Day in Montenegro should serve both as a reminder that the struggle for free and professional media is far from over, and as a call to institutions to assume responsibility. Free, safe, and economically secure journalists are not merely a professional interest, but a cornerstone of a democratic society and a right of all citizens.
CCE will continue to monitor the state of media freedoms, highlight challenges, and advocate for policies that contribute to a safer and more supportive environment for media work in Montenegro, as well as for professional journalism that is essential for timely and reliable public information.
Nikola Obradović, Programme Associate