Commissioner: The position of the media is difficult, the pressures are numerous, and professional reporting is measured by courage.

“In such times, your role becomes even more valuable. When you raise the topic, when you present the facts, when you speak – the voices of the discriminated and disenfranchised gain space and strength,” said the Commissioner while addressing journalists, former laureates of the Media Award for Tolerance.

In Belgrade on Friday, a gathering was held in anticipation of the upcoming anniversary, the tenth anniversary of the awarding of this recognition, which the Commissioner grants together with the OSCE Mission in Serbia. The award is given for the best media articles and contributions on the topic of combating discrimination and promoting equality and tolerance in society.

Janković emphasized that for journalists to have such a role in society, they must have the opportunity to perform their work professionally, responsibly, and without fear.

She also added that through truthful reporting and adherence to ethical principles, the media can encourage citizens to speak out instead of remaining silent and to not tolerate injustice.

The Commissioner highlighted that even after a decade, the mission continues and that it will not be easy.

“The fight for human rights is never over, as no one guarantees the achieved level of human rights, especially in fragile democracies. And which one today is not fragile?” Janković remarked.

The head of the OSCE Mission in Serbia, Karolina Hidea, pointed out that the struggle for tolerance and mutual respect never ceases.

“It is not something that is obtained; it is a process. Together we are on this path that needs to nurture diversity in society,” she said, adding that the role of the media in this is invaluable.

“The fight against discrimination and prejudice is crucial, and it is the cornerstone for the advancement of society. Independent and professional media are essential for democracy,” Hidea stated.

She reminded that the OSCE Mission continuously supports Serbia's efforts in media reforms – in cooperation with the international community, Serbian authorities, media representatives, and civil society.

She expressed gratitude to the journalists who are recipients of the Media Award for Tolerance for their courage, dedication, and the values they promote.

“You emphasize the importance of tolerance and equality in society, and this also serves as encouragement for your colleagues to adhere to such standards and ethical values,” Hidea believes.

The Ambassador of Finland in Belgrade, which is also the chairing country of the OSCE, Niklas Lindkvist, stated that democracy and the rule of law are not abstract ideas, but fundamental values.

“Without that, you cannot have a stable country,” he asserted.

Source: N1