The media scene in Serbia is characterized by continuous challenges that endanger media freedom and the independence of journalists. This is evidenced by numerous relevant reports addressing this issue, including the annual European Commission report on Serbia for the year 2023. In this report, findings have been reached that, despite certain advancements in the field of media reforms, there are still concerning trends regarding media pluralism, media ownership transparency, and pressures on journalists. The report particularly emphasizes the need to strengthen the regulatory framework to ensure greater independence of public media services and enhance journalist protection. 

According to the Freedom House report for the year 2023, there has been intensified pressure on independent media in the previous period, as well as censorship and self-censorship, and political influence on media editorial boards. 

In order to influence the improvement of the overall media situation in our country, it is necessary, among other things, to empower and encourage young journalists to engage in journalism, especially in investigative and socially significant topics, continuously improving their own knowledge and skills. This is precisely one of the goals of the "Youth and Media" Academy of Journalism launched in 2022. 

The "Youth and Media" Academy of Journalism 

As part of the new cycle of the Academy of Journalism, an initial event was held in Vrnjacka Banja from January 24th to 26th. Young journalists had the opportunity to learn and practice new techniques in the fields of television interviews, investigative journalism, and storytelling from Vojislav Stevanovic, a journalist from N1 Television, Stevan Dojcinovic, editor of KRIK, and Stefan Markovic, a journalist from CINS. 

Within the Academy of Journalism, online lectures will be organized over the next six weeks. At the end of the project, as a result of attending lectures and the mentoring process with selected journalists, participants of the academy will create complex journalistic forms on topics significant to local communities in the areas of development, functioning of democracy and institutions, rule of law and human rights, and the authors of the best works will also be financially rewarded. 

Source and cover photo: BOS (Belgrade Open School)

Photo gallery available: HERE