Vujović: Čelanović was exposed to threats and insults, I condemn the attack on the dignity of the journalistic profession

Regarding the unacceptable incident in which City Television journalist Magdalena Čelanović was exposed to threats and insults, I publicly condemn this attack on the dignity of the journalistic profession, Minister of Culture and Media Tamara Vujović announced today.

"It is particularly concerning that the attack came from a doctor, a person whose mission is to protect the life and dignity of every citizen, and who, through her actions, has damaged the reputation of the profession she represents. Such behavior is not only disturbing, but also further undermines public trust in institutions that should be an example of professionalism, humanity and responsibility," Vujović stressed in a statement.

She added that she welcomes "the rapid reaction of the Clinical Center of Montenegro, which, clearly emphasizing that the threats directed against media workers are an attack on freedom of expression and the foundations of the democratic order of society, initiated the procedure to determine the employee's responsibility."

"The Clinical Center has announced that it will implement all available mechanisms for determining ethical and professional responsibility in relation to the employee, so that it can be considered in the prescribed procedures, all with the aim of assessing his professional ability for further work in the institution. The Network for Combating Hate Speech, which we will soon establish, will have the task of publicly identifying and condemning individuals whose actions undermine the foundations of the values ​​of our society. I believe that the clear and decisive response of this network will be a strong message to all those prone to threats, insults and violence that such behavior will not go unnoticed and will be condemned by the entire society," said Vujović.

Cardiologist Vladimir Peruničić was fined a maximum of 1.000 euros with the mandatory security measure of mandatory treatment for alcoholism at liberty and in outpatient settings. This was decided by the Podgorica Misdemeanor Court, after Gradska TV journalist Magdalena Čelanović reported him for insults, threats and harassment.