Centre for Civic Education (CCE) expresses concern over the acquittal rendered by the Basic Court in Berane in the case concerning the attack on photojournalists from Vijesti and Pobjeda, Boris Pejović and Stevo Vasiljević, during the erection of a monument to Chetnik commander and war criminal Pavle Đurišić, for which Danko Femić had been charged. Such an outcome sends a troubling message regarding the protection of journalists, media freedom, and the overall state of the rule of law in Montenegro.
Attacks on journalists and media workers represent a direct assault on the public interest and citizens’ right to information. The absence of an adequate judicial outcome that clearly establishes accountability in such cases has a discouraging effect on media professionals and further undermines public trust in institutions, particularly in the judiciary, which is expected to guarantee equality before the law and the protection of fundamental rights.
The CCE recalls that the issue of journalist safety in Montenegro has for years been recognised as one of the key challenges, as evidenced by numerous unresolved or insufficiently prosecuted cases of attacks. Such continuity contributes to a perception of impunity and further deteriorates the environment in which journalists operate.
This decision also comes at a sensitive moment in Montenegro’s negotiations with the European Union, particularly in the context of Chapters 23 and 24, which form the backbone of rule of law reforms and require measurable results in judicial efficiency, protection of human rights, and freedom of expression. European institutions consistently emphasise the need for a more decisive and effective response to attacks on journalists. At the same time, the continued pattern of weak institutional responses sends a concerning message about the level of protection afforded to journalists and the state’s readiness to ensure fundamental rule of law standards.
The CCE emphasises that such outcomes deepen the sense of insecurity among journalists, who have for too long worked in an environment burdened by unresolved and prolonged cases. We also recall the case of journalist Olivera Lakić, which, despite its gravity and significance, has been ongoing for nearly a decade, reinforcing the perception of institutional inefficiency.
Free and safe journalists are one of the key indicators of a society’s democratic maturity and an important benchmark in the European Union accession process. Their protection must not remain merely declarative but must be grounded in concrete and measurable institutional results. This will ultimately be a test of Montenegro’s genuine commitment to the rule of law and European values.
Nikola Obradović, Programme Associate