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The Government of the Republic of Serbia

In the service of citizens

Blockade of RTS direct attack on media freedom

Belgrade, 18 April 2025

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior Ivica Dačić, Minister of Foreign Affairs Marko Đurić and Minister of Justice Nenad Vujić informed today representatives of the Quinte countries and the EU Delegation about the seriousness of the situation regarding the illegal blockade of Radio Television of Serbia (RTS).

During the meeting, they informed their interlocutors about the consequences of this attack on democratic institutions, the safety of media workers and the rule of law in our country.

Representatives of the Government of Serbia emphasised that this illegal blockade represents a direct attack on media freedom, the safety of journalists and the basic postulates of a state governed by the rule of law.

It is unacceptable, they assessed, that a group of individuals, under the pretext of political disagreement, consciously and systematically place themselves above the law, violate the constitutional and legal rights of others and prevent the functioning of a public service that belongs to all citizens of Serbia.

They particularly emphasised that such actions grossly violate not only domestic regulations, but also international conventions that bind Serbia to protect freedom of expression and access to information, which constitutes a violation of the European Convention on Human Rights and the standards of the Council of Europe, of which Serbia is a member.

According to them, the Government of Serbia remains firmly committed to, while respecting democratic standards, protecting institutions, ensuring order and legality, and defending the right of every journalist to work freely and without pressure.

We also expect a clear voice from the international community in defense of these values. Public gatherings are free, but preventing employees from doing their jobs and entering the building, as well as preventing the broadcasting of programs, are not. These are criminal acts.

Serbia must not be held hostage to arbitrariness and lawlessness. The public service should continue to operate, and institutions should function – in accordance with the law and in the interests of citizens, it was stated at the meeting.