ANEM alarm: Under the threat of arrest, the gendarme demanded the shutdown of the spotlight on the N1 camera.
During yesterday's shameful occupation of the Faculty of Philosophy in Novi Sad by the police, and the violation of university autonomy at the request of the dean, the subsequent protest of students and citizens in front of the faculty building once again witnessed the inadequate actions of the police, according to journalists, students, and citizens.
Journalists were prevented from moving behind the cordon from where they could report professionally and without obstruction, which had previously been possible. Female and male journalists, as well as cameramen, were once again subjected to pushing and being struck with shields, cannon blasts, and other explosive devices used by the gendarmerie.
A member of the gendarmerie asked the cameraman and journalist from N1 to turn off the camera's spotlight, which is essential during nighttime recordings. They were told they would be arrested if they did not comply with the gendarmerie's orders.
ANEM once again appeals for the intervention units and police to allow journalists to report freely from gatherings, especially during interventions. The majority of journalists and photographers are visibly marked with vests, equipment labels, and press credentials, making them very noticeable at events. Journalists perform an important role in informing the public and should be provided with adequate basic working conditions.
ANEM also condemns the obstruction of N1 journalist Ana Novaković during her attempt to obtain a statement from the director of United Group. It is unacceptable for hotel security to prevent and detain her and to issue threats directed at the N1 team.
In both cases, these are events of public significance. Citizens have the right to be informed. The obstruction of journalists is a clear indicator that there is a desire to cover something up.
Journalists are there to illuminate and protect the public interest and provide relevant and timely information.
Veran Matić, President of the ANEM Board and member of the Permanent Working Group for Journalists' Safety
The project "System for the Prevention of Violence and Protection of Journalists" is being implemented by ANEM in partnership with Insajder TV and the Center for the Development of Local Media, with the support of the European Union and the Balkan Democracy Fund.
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