25. 07. 2010

ANEM STRONGLY CONDEMNS ATTACK ON TEOFIL PANCIC

Belgrade, July 25, 2010 - Association of Independent Electronic Media (ANEM) strongly protests against the brutal attack on the weekly "Vreme" columnist, journalist Teofil Pancic, which occurred last night on the city bus in Zemun.

ANEM is expecting immediate reaction from the competent state bodies, to urgently and effectively find and prosecute the perpetrators of this attack on the journalist, who has suffered a contusion of the head and hands. Unfortunately, this attack is a continuation of the attacks on the journalistic profession and representatives of the media in our country.

Also intimidating is the fact that none of the murders of journalists have been yet revealed, while we witness the rare and sporadic cases of finding the attackers of media workers, as well as their later legal processing.

The absence of appropriate response of the state and creation of an atmosphere of fear, further encourage potential attackers. Unfortunately, last night's target was Teofil Pancic, known as liberal-minded intellectual, accomplished professional, respected and award-winning journalist.

ANEM expresses its full solidarity with the victim of the attack and calls on authorities to find the perpetrators in the best interest of the democratization of society and media freedom.

Only with the prompt reaction of the competent authorities can the Government practically demonstrate its desire to assure normal working conditions to media and journalists, and discourage future attackers on media professionals.

ANEM President, Sasa Mirkovic