Today is January 23 - the Day of Journalists of Montenegro.
Employees in numerous newsrooms say that they hope for a better economic position and a safer work environment.
Congratulations on the Day of Journalists came from officials and representatives of political parties.
Mašković: We are carefully following the events at Gradska RTV
In his congratulatory message, the head of the councilors' club of the Social Democrats and the Liberal Party in the Capital City Assembly, Miloš Mašković, stated that the role of journalists in preserving democratic principles and promoting freedom of speech is immeasurable.
"I express my sincere congratulations on the occasion of January 23, the Day of Journalists of Montenegro. The role of journalists in preserving democratic principles and promoting freedom of speech is immeasurable. We are aware of the challenges that journalists face in their work, including pressures and restrictions on freedom of speech. Therefore, in the spirit democracy and the right to freedom of expression, we should continue to work together to create better conditions for your unhindered and independent work," the congratulation reads.
"We are also following with special attention the developments in Gradska RTV, which is currently facing challenges regarding the application of the management structure. Taking into account the importance of this local public broadcaster, but also the strength of the political pressure under which the change of the management structure is taking place, it is very important for all female journalists and to provide journalists with equal working conditions without political pressure", Mašković concluded.
Nenezić: The existence of public speech and criticism by the public is a strong corrective factor in the overall functioning of society and the state
Member of the Social Democrats in the Parliament of Montenegro and President of the Municipal Assembly (SO) Bar Branislav Nenezić stated in his congratulatory message that the role of journalists as representatives of public speech is of fundamental importance for the development of a democratic society
"It is a great honor for me personally and on behalf of the Municipal Assembly of Bar to congratulate all employees of public speech on January 23rd, Journalists' Day, with the wish that they have much success in their professional engagement. The role of journalists as representatives of public speech is of fundamental importance for the development of a democratic society, because the existence of public speech and criticism by the public is a strong corrective factor in the overall functioning of society and the state," the congratulation reads.
"In addition to the important role that journalism and the media in general have today, it is very important to point out that it is necessary to constantly work on improving working conditions and protecting the rights of journalists, who often find themselves under attack from those who criticize them due to their objective presentation. Also, the media scene of Montenegro should to strengthen through investment in the education and training of media actors, with the emphasis that it is necessary to increase the degree of objectivity and professionalism in journalistic work," concludes Nenezić.
Atlantic Alliance: Free media ask critical questions, keep institutions accountable, and the public informed
In its congratulatory message, the Atlantic Alliance stated that today is celebrating not only the effort and contribution to the journalistic profession, but also the role of journalists in preserving freedom of expression, a fundamental right in every democratic society.
"Free media ask critical questions, keep institutions accountable and the public informed. Your ability to research, analyze and publish without fear of pressure or censorship is crucial in the fight for freedom of expression, diversity of opinion and encouraging dialogue on all issues of importance to citizens and public. That is why we want to express the hope that the economic and social status of journalists and media will improve in the future, because freedom is not only freedom from censorship, but also from financial and other pressures that Montenegrin media and journalists face. Apart from that challenge , the media are also faced with the rapid spread of disinformation and misinformation in the public space, which, in addition to directly undermining the foundations of society and democratic processes, also negatively affects the credibility of the media itself and the trust of citizens in the information they publish. Free, economically and politically independent media are key for strengthening institutions and democracy," the congratulation reads.
"At the Atlantic Alliance, we will continue to support your work through the joint struggle to publish verified and credible information, and identify and expose malicious information activities, as well as through educational activities, exchange of knowledge and experience, because in the media we have an important partner in our mission of promoting Euro-Atlantic values and goals," it concludes.
Injac: The dedicated performance of journalistic work encourages confidence in the democratic path of Montenegro
The Mayor of Podgorica, Olivera Injac, stated in her congratulatory message that this day reminds of the fact that the role of the media and journalists has an immeasurable contribution to the processes of strengthening democracy, uncovering truths and realizing the overall progress of the state and society.
"Dedicated performance of journalistic work with awareness of the responsibility of media published views and transmitted information, encourages trust in the democratic path of Montenegro and makes our step closer to European standards," the congratulatory letter reads.
"Today, when information is a tool that strengthens or threatens, your role becomes even more important. In the desire to celebrate the freedom of the media not only today, but for your profession to be permanently appreciated, I wish you much success in your work, overcoming challenges and publishing affirmative stories ", concluded Injac.
Popović: The work of journalists is a contribution to democratic progress
In her congratulatory message, the Vice-President of the Assembly Zdenka Popović stated that the pursuit of truth, freedom and justice, as the indispensable foundations of independent journalism and professional ethics, is the basis of the democratic development of our country.
"I strongly believe that these values are key to preserving the integrity of Montenegrin journalism, making it a vital factor in shaping society. In the spirit of this mission, I call on journalists to engage with dedication, honorably and responsibly performing their work in the interest of the citizens and the prosperity of Montenegro.
"May their commitment to truth, freedom and justice be a beacon on the way to a stronger democratic society. In this behalf, I once again congratulate all journalists and public speakers on the Day of Journalists of Montenegro, hoping that their work will continue to shape the public space and contribute to democratic progress" , Popovic said.
Vraneš: Fighters for justice and guardians of the truth
The President of the Municipality of Pljevlja, Dario Vraneš, stated in his congratulatory message that journalists do a very responsible job and that in this sense they must be given "great respect and recognition".
"As fighters for justice and guardians of the truth, you bear a heavy burden by facing various challenges. You provide timely information on all events and react in crisis situations. May your work continue to be guided by professional principles and social responsibility, in order to maintain the attention and preserve the trust of citizens. You are all part of the social changes that are taking place, so the task of all of us must be to respect ethical and professional principles and protect freedom of speech. Once again, I thank all journalists for the cooperation, dedication and perseverance with which you inform our citizens every day," he wrote. You crow
Jakšić Stojanović: The voice of journalists must be the support of processes aimed at the truth and citizens' right to know
Minister of Education, Science and Education Anđela Jakšić Stojanović said in her congratulatory message that the role of journalists in society is extremely important, because journalists "are the ones who inform us and keep us informed about events throughout the country and the world".
"Your courage, investigative spirit and professionalism are something I greatly appreciate. You face challenges and responsibilities every day, bringing us news from different areas of life. Your devotion to truth and objectivity is crucial because it allows us to form our own opinions and make the right decisions." she stated.
The basis of professional journalism is free and objective information of citizens, and the voice of journalists must be the support of all processes aimed at the truth and citizens' right to know, said the minister.
"Truth, freedom and justice are the foundations of independent journalism and professional ethics and as such represent an important factor in the democratic development of Montenegro. These values are part of the tradition of journalism in our country, and as such they oblige journalists to perform their work honorably, responsibly and professionally . Thank you for your work, effort and dedication. I wish you success in all your professional endeavors and I hope you will continue to report to us with integrity and responsibility. Happy Journalists' Day," she concluded.
Libra: The priority must be to create conditions for freedom of information
Head of the OSCE Mission, Dominik Vag, congratulating the journalists in Montenegro, pointed out that January 23 is a reminder of the vital role that journalists play in every democratic society, and it concerns the checking and verification of the information received.
"Professional journalists have a key role in researching, reporting and publishing unbiased stories. Despite the increased use of artificial intelligence in the production of content, journalists are still the ones who can be trusted to produce credible information, because the media have an obligation to the public to respect the highest professional standards," said Ambassador Vag.
Pointing to the OSCE's commitment to freedom of information, freedom of the media and freedom of opinion, receiving and communicating information and ideas without interference, she added that the priority must be to create conditions for freedom of information and foster an environment in which the media is free from political, financial or any other influence, and journalists, especially female journalists, are safe to work independently, research stories and have access to public documents.
"We celebrate professional journalists and media in Montenegro and encourage them to respect the highest journalistic standards," Vag said.
As part of the support for journalists, especially female journalists, young journalists and journalism students, the Mission has, as stated, designed programs to strengthen their practice-oriented knowledge and skills, programs that foster fact-checking and ethical reporting, investigative journalism and cooperation among media professionals.
Ombudsman: The conditions in which journalists work are still not adapted
Free and independent media, free from any type of permissible pressure on public speech, are one of the key preconditions for the implementation of democracy, the realization of human rights and the rule of law, which is why the status of journalists must be continuously improved, the Office of the Ombudsman announced.
"Today, when the Day of Journalists of Montenegro is celebrated, the Protector of Human Rights and Freedoms of Montenegro, congratulating this date, reminds of the important role that members of this profession have in society and draws attention to the fact that the conditions in which they work, as well as the status in society in general, in the hope that this will change with the announced changes to the media laws," it added.
According to them, since the beginning of the work of the institution of the Protector, the media have been important allies in elucidating cases of violations of human rights and freedoms, and "unfortunately, we have also witnessed numerous problems and unacceptable types of pressures that members of this profession were exposed to in the previous period".
They added that, bearing in mind all the problems that the Media Union of Montenegro, as well as other professional associations, have pointed out for years, it is clear that in this area, as they stated, satisfactory progress has not yet been achieved in connection with the improvement of the labor-legal status and the clarification of the most difficult cases of attacks, primarily, as they say, the murder of the editor of the newspaper "Dan" Duško Jovanović.
"We continue to witness the threats and attacks to which journalists as individuals, and sometimes editorial offices, are exposed because of their work, so the Protector reminds us on this occasion that dissatisfaction with the way of reporting should be expressed exclusively through institutional forms of objection and other legal possibilities," it added. .
In the press release, they stated that in the digital age it is difficult to control online content, which abounds, as they state, with inaccurate, imprecise, tendentious information, "including hate speech and other illegal forms of expression, it is precisely the established media that have a greater responsibility to preserve in such conditions with credible reporting and consolidate their position".
Šćekić: I hope that the atmosphere in society and politics will change for the better for public speakers, I will give the maximum contribution to that goal
For a long time, journalists in Montenegro have not enjoyed the freedom they should have in the work they do and, I can freely say, given the nature of the profession, that they live, said the Minister of Sports and Youth, Dragoslav Šćekić.
"I want to congratulate all journalists in Montenegro on their day, which is of special importance, because free journalism is the freedom of every citizen. The established name of the seventh force, or the fourth branch of government, shows the importance and influence that their work has on the correction of state power, but also on public me," he added.
He clarified that the events of the past must not be allowed to repeat.
"I hope that the atmosphere in society and politics will change for the better for public speakers. And I stand by the fact that I will make the maximum contribution to that goal from my position," he added.
He said that he expects journalists to be professional, impartial, responsible and justice-loving.
"To succeed in breaking away from abuses, so that the freedom of the spoken word is respected and understood in the best possible way. Freedom of the media must be a premise for every politician, but also for the owners of media houses. It is our obligation to provide them with a safer environment for work, and yours better economic conditions, so that they can perform their work as professionally as possible," he said.
He stated that freedom and responsibility for the spoken word of journalists should be, as he says, a guide through a challenging but also respected call.
LP: Media is the foundation of an open society
The Liberal Party said that the media is the foundation of an open society.
"On the occasion of January 23 - Journalist's Day in Montenegro, we send congratulations to all media workers. Freedom and protection of the publicly spoken word and professional journalism are a fundamental indicator of the democratic progress of every society and state and the state of general freedoms in it. This date is an opportunity to remember that which is its essence, to warn us all, especially the state and competent institutions, about the state of the media scene in Montenegro.
"We appeal to the authorities to seriously deal with the position of journalists, and especially with a set of media laws that will guarantee a better position for both journalists and the media community as a whole, which will contribute to the overall development of society.
"The liberal party, as a basic programmatic principle and goal in social and political action, proclaimed the fight for a state of free media and independent journalists. Realizing that a democratic society can only be built through free public opinion and the free flow of true information that must be available to all citizens, we with special sensibility we analyze and support the affirmation of professional journalism," the announcement states.
Kaluđerović: Attackers, let the hand of justice arrive
SNP MP Slađana Kaluđerović, in her party's congratulatory message, stated that the media is one of the most important pillars of every society and that is why "it is our joint obligation to enable" the freedom of the media and their better position and working conditions.
"Today's Montenegro has inherited the mortgage of a state that does not inherit media freedom, which is why we need additional accelerated steps to provide the media with conditions for free work in the interest of the public, without pressure and censorship, as well as fair play on the media market.
"We must not allow freedom of speech and public speech to be stifled, which is why we must send a clear message that threats and attacks on journalists must not go unpunished. That is why the state of Montenegro and we as its political representatives must once and for all and without delay ensure that the perpetrators of the murder Duško Jovanović, as well as all other cases of attacks on journalists - the well-deserved hand of justice arrives.
"The red line is clear - an attack on the media and journalists means endangering the right of citizens to be informed, which is a prerequisite for the realization of all other civil rights.
"The freedom of journalism must not be threatened by anything, but the media's responsibility and truthfulness and objectivity must not be abused in any way. The basic factor of media freedom is a free journalist.
"At the same time, the SNP expresses the hope that the media, despite the numerous problems they face in their work, will be consistent in applying the highest journalistic and ethical codes in reporting on all important political, economic and life topics," stated Kaluđerović.
Martinović: An opportunity to remind ourselves of the role that the media play in improving the rule of law and Montenegro's European path
This is an opportunity to remind ourselves of the role that the media play in realizing human rights and freedoms, improving the rule of law and the European path of Montenegro, said the Minister of Tourism, Ecology, Sustainable Development and Development of the North, Vladimir Martinović.
He sent a congratulatory message on the occasion of the Day of Journalists of Montenegro, which is celebrated today.
"We must be aware that in these times, achieving high journalistic standards contributes to strengthening multi-ethnic harmony and building civil society in accordance with European values and quality of life in Montenegro. We should work together to improve the status of media workers and strengthen their legal protection. Srećan Journalist's day," concluded Martinović.
Bečić: Today we thank the fighters for justice, who stand daily on the front line of defense of freedom of expression
Today we remember and give thanks to the brave guardians of the truth, fearless fighters for justice, who stand daily on the front line of defense of freedom of expression, Deputy Prime Minister Aleksa Bečić said.
"Dear journalists of Montenegro, on behalf of the Government of Montenegro and on my own behalf, with respect and gratitude, I congratulate you on January 23 - Journalists' Day. This day is not only an opportunity to celebrate your professional contribution, but also to reflect deeply on the importance and the strength of your call," he added.
He stated that journalists carry a heavy burden, facing, as he says, pressures and dangers.
"Often exposed to attacks because of your commitment to investigative journalism and exposing the links between the authorities and organized crime and corruption in our country," said Bečić.
He emphasized that they especially remember Duško Jovanović, "a prominent journalist whose death remains an open wound in our democracy".
Bečić pointed out that his death reminds of, as he says, the necessity for a continuous fight for the protection and safety of journalists.
"We work every day to reveal all the details of this and similar cases, so that justice is served and similar events are prevented in the future. We must not forget the journalists who suffered attacks, beatings, threats and the destruction of their property and that of their media companies. of these cases is an attack not only on individuals, but also on the very foundation of our freedom of expression and democratic values," he added.
He said that journalism is not just a profession, but, as he said, is a pillar of democracy, essential for promoting freedom of thought and speech, key to building a healthy and democratic society.
"Your role in informing the public must be guided by impartiality, responsibility and timely reporting, and must never be misused for political manipulation or spreading hate speech. Therefore, I want to send sincere congratulations to each of you, the journalists of Montenegro. May your work be guided professional standards, credibility and social responsibility, in order to preserve and strengthen the trust of citizens," concluded Bečić.
Social Democrats: The media, with its high-quality and impartial reporting, represent a key pillar of a democratic society
This day is an opportunity to give special recognition to journalists who work dedicatedly to inform the public every day, facing numerous challenges that their work brings, said the Social Democrats of Montenegro.
They assessed that the state must provide better working conditions for journalists.
"The media, with their high-quality and impartial reporting, represent a key pillar of a democratic society. Their role is not and must not be only to convey news, but to defend the truth and the voice of those who would otherwise not be heard. That is why we encourage all journalists to become even stronger, stronger fights for the truth, placing special emphasis on investigative journalism," they said.
They said that journalists still work in insufficiently good conditions and that they are still, as they stated, exposed to numerous attacks, and even physical ones.
They added that because of this, the state, as well as everyone who participates in the media space of Montenegro, must make, as they stated, an even greater contribution to improving the conditions in which journalists work," they added.
"Finally, but no less important, we are aware of the fact that journalists in Montenegro do extremely difficult and responsible work, for which, unfortunately, they are absolutely underpaid. That is why, as before, we will support every activity aimed at the economic empowerment of journalists , appreciating that, for the work they perform, they must be adequately paid," the Social Democrats state in their congratulatory message," they concluded.
Đurašković: Freelance journalists play a significant role in the democratization of society
The mayor of Cetinje, Nikola Đurašković, said that free, independent, professional journalists have a significant role in the transformation and democratization of society.
"In the era of fast information, your role is essential in shaping public opinion, maintaining the responsibility of the government and creating a more open society," Đurašković stated in his congratulatory message.
He added that Journalists' Day is also an opportunity to point out the responsibility of the profession, which requires true, objective and impartial reporting, without spin and propaganda.
"I express my gratitude to all journalists who perform their work professionally and in the public interest. Thank you for your persistence in uncovering the truth, even when it can be challenging. Reporting on topics of public interest makes you key actors in shaping a democratic society," said Đurašković.
As he says, Montenegro's Journalists' Day is also a time to reflect on the challenges that journalists face every day, as well as an opportunity to emphasize the importance of freedom of expression. He points out that the Capital will continue to be a good partner for journalists in performing their work.
"In the hope that in the coming period your position will improve significantly and conditions will be created in which you can perform your work unhindered and in accordance with professional standards, I wish you a happy Journalists' Day", he concluded.
Dukaj: Affirmation of cooperation with the media is the duty of every government
Minister of Public Administration Maraš Dukaj said that freedom of expression is the essence of protecting journalists and that it gives power to their obligation to accurately, impartially and professionally inform citizens and the public.
"The affirmation of cooperation with the media and the interested public is the duty of every government. I am proud that the Ministry of Public Administration, through the drafting of the Law on Free Access to Information, has taken a step forward in the field of transparency and access to information. By receiving the green light from the EC, another way is affirmed to establish a partnership with the media and journalists for accurate and fair information for the benefit of all of us", said Dukaj.
Ibrahimović: Media freedom is a prerequisite for building a free society
The President of the Bosniak Party, Ervin Ibrahimović, sent a congratulatory message to all journalists and media employees.
"Media freedom, based on freedom of expression, is one of the basic prerequisites for building a free, democratic and open society. Therefore, the democratization of society is impossible without the active role of media workers. Any type of pressure on the media cannot and must not be a pattern of behavior, especially of those who perform responsible political functions. Likewise, along with guaranteed freedom, the media also have the responsibility to report in accordance with professional journalistic standards. I sincerely congratulate journalists and all employees of the media in Montenegro on the Day of Journalists, with the wish that they welcome every next January 23 in better working conditions", wrote Ibrahimović in his congratulatory message.
Borovinić Bojović: Journalists are our allies in the fight for a better future
The President of the Assembly of the Capital City, Jelena Borovinić Bojović, said that journalists in Montenegro are among the most important allies "to all of us who work and fight for a better future of Podgorica and our entire country in decision-making positions".
"Journalists are our allies both when they write affirmatively and when they criticize us, and perhaps most of all when they criticize us, because in that way they help us to always have our responsibility towards the citizens who elected us in our focus. The challenges and problems they face in their work are often the same ones faced by society as a whole. This is also the case with one of the most sensitive issues currently attracting public attention - how to establish a clear boundary that separates the area of freedom of speech on the one hand from hate speech and insults on the other. It is the joint responsibility and obligation of media professionals, as well as all actors in the public space, to help each other in order to find a quality answer to this important social issue.
"I would like to emphasize that, within the framework of its competences, the Assembly of the Capital City strongly advocates and will advocate that the position and status of journalists in Montenegro correspond to the importance they have for society, as well as the enormous expectations that society has of them. I would also like to pay attention to those journalists who lost their jobs as technological redundancies, deeply believing that no journalist is 'redundant' and that everyone must find a place in our media heaven. Once again, hearty congratulations to all colleagues in the media," she said. Borovinić Bojović.
Bogdanović: We freed Montenegro from shackles
During the decades of oppression, mistreatment, beatings and even murders, we have freed Montenegro from the shackles with our joint forces, said the head of the Democrats parliamentary club, Boris Bogdanović.
In his own name and on behalf of the Club of Deputies of Democratic Montenegro, he congratulated all journalists on January 23, the Day of Journalists.
"Your suffering is a symbol of an ugly past, a dignified present and a lesson for an honorable future. You were and remain a beacon of civil, European and libertarian thought, and only a clear and loud critical word offers our country a perspective. Don't let it fall silent," he said. .
He explained that, aware of all the problems and difficulties that journalists face every day, he can promise only one thing: "dedicated work to improve your working conditions, because by protecting your rights, we are protecting a civil and free Montenegro. Media Fund pluralism was only one of the steps towards strengthening the financial security of all journalists, and its amount will be doubled in 2024 to two million euros".
Bogdanović stated that he hopes that the challenges of every man who chose this, as he said, honorable call will be a thing of the past, "once again I congratulate you on your day, the Day of Journalists".
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