Novi Pazar: Local media journalists are facing the same problems, left to fend for themselves.

The film's author, Nataša Kovačev, emphasized that the film only covers a portion of the experiences of local media journalists over the past few years.

“This turbulent period, filled with socio-political events, has most affected journalists from smaller communities. What the film has shown and what I heard in conversations with them is that they all face similar problems and pressures, regardless of which part of the country they come from or which city they report from. In many situations, they are left to fend for themselves; the relevant authorities do not respond, and they lack protection from the police and the prosecution. They are left with only solidarity and the need to care for one another,” she stated.

The editor of the portal “Razglas njuz” from Novi Sad, Žarko Bogosavljević, highlighted the importance of bringing stories about local journalists to a wider audience.

“They are trying to silence us in every possible way. We are dealing with the tragedy in Novi Sad, where 16 people were killed, and someone is trying to suppress us, ensuring that nothing is heard about it. We have faced physical attacks, threats, and economic pressures; media outlets are shutting down. It is important that this is heard, that people know. It doesn’t make it easier for us to see that other colleagues face the same problems as we do, but it can help us to talk and find a solution for what to do,” said Bogosavljević.

He added that, after numerous attacks and threats, it is difficult to remain calm and “not scream out of helplessness,” but he tries to approach his work with as few emotions as possible.

The editor of the portal “Takt info” from Novi Pazar, Nusreta Brunčević, assessed that it is very difficult to work as a journalist in smaller communities, and this is confirmed by the stories of her colleagues from other cities.

“It is very important to focus on media outlets that are barely surviving because this gives us confirmation that we are visible, that we are important, and that we will see tomorrow. We all 'live' this job; the stories of all of us from local media are the same. We are not only bound by the difficulties we face but also by the fact that we all want things to improve in our communities,” she added.

The documentary film “Journalists Under Pressure – Local Voices” presents testimonies and experiences of journalists from Novi Sad, Novi Pazar, Zaječar, Leskovac, Pančevo, Inđija, and Kulpin.

Source: Radio Sto plus