Media Freedom Coalition Supports Student Blockade

Student protests (BETAPHOTO/MILAN OBRADOVIC)

On Dec. 12, the Media Freedom Coalition expressed its support to the ongoing student protests, stating that the country’s youth is fighting for democracy, justice and freedom of speech.

“With their decisive, peaceful and non-violent actions, university students are educating all of us and demonstrating the power of solidarity. With their actions, they are not only protecting their right to an education, but are also fighting for the freedom and dignity of us all. They are an example to everyone, as are their professors, who have supported them,” the Coalition said in its press release.

The organization went on to condemn any form of violence or pressure aimed at the students along with attempts to deny them freedom of assembly, recalling that Serbia is a member of the Council of Europe and that said right is protected by the European Convention on Human Rights.

The Coalition further criticized the behavior of certain media which are “constantly” attempting to provoke public outrage against the students and professors on strike.

“Using tried and tested methods, they are painting targets on these professors and students alike. We are convinced that a vast majority of the public, however, no longer cares about the regime’s shameless propaganda. The Novi Sad [railway station collapse] which killed 15 people and left two critically injured is a crime committed by the authorities and there is no way the regime can avoid accountability for this,” the statement reads.

The Media Freedom Coalition comprises the Association of Media, the Association of Online Media, the Independent Society of Vojvodina Journalists, the Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia, the Local Press business association of local and independent media, the Slavko Curuvija Foundation and the Independence union for culture, art and media.