Violence or intimidation of media professionals has no place in free and open societies.

Media freedom is a cornerstone of democracy, and violence or intimidation of media professionals has no place in free and open societies.

This was emphasized during today's meeting of representatives of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro with "Pobjeda" photojournalist Stevo Vasiljević and "Vijesti" photojournalist Boris Pejović, during which they discussed violence against media professionals.

Vasiljević and Pejović were recently threatened and attacked on duty while reporting on the removal of an illegally erected monument to Chetnik commander Pavle Đurišić in front of a church in the Berane village of Gornje Zaostro.

“Advocating for conditions that allow journalists to work free from intimidation, harassment and a climate of impunity, the Mission works with institutions to help ensure coordinated and timely responses to attacks and threats,” said Evan Eberle, the Mission’s Media Program Manager. “We welcome the authorities’ prompt initial response in this case and look forward to a thorough investigation and appropriate follow-up measures in accordance with the rule of law.”

The OSCE, as they announced, recognizing the challenging environment in which journalists work, not only in Montenegro but around the world, provides practical tools and mechanisms for dealing with high-risk situations.

"The Mission supports Montenegrin partners in developing a national mechanism for the safety of media workers inspired by the Dutch PersVeilig model, which will be adapted to address Montenegro's specific challenges in responding to threats and ensuring the safety of media professionals," the statement reads.