Montenegrin Journalists' Day is celebrated today, in memory of January 23, 1871, when the first issue of the first newspaper "Crnogorac" was published in Cetinje.
Congratulations also arrived on this occasion.
Šćekić: On this day, we also remember Duško Jovanović with special reverence, whose murder remains a lasting reminder of the importance of the fight for media freedom and the safety of journalists.
The President of the People's Trust Movement (MNP), Dragoslav Šćekić, congratulates all journalists and media workers on the Day of Journalists of Montenegro, with gratitude for their contribution to informing the public and preserving democratic values, the PNP announced.
"Journalism is a calling of special social importance, and professional and responsible reporting is the foundation of every free society. On this day, we also remember Duško Jovanović with special reverence, whose murder remains a lasting reminder of the importance of the fight for media freedom and the safety of journalists. The People's Trust Movement remains dedicated to strengthening media freedom and protecting the dignity of the journalistic profession," said Šćekić.
Bečić: At the foundation of Montenegrin journalism lies the sacrifice of Duško Jovanović, whose name permanently obliges the state that truth must be stronger than fear, and justice above all interests
At the foundation of Montenegrin journalism stands the victim of Duško Jovanović, whose name permanently obliges the state that truth must be stronger than fear, and justice above all interests, announced Deputy Prime Minister for Security, Defense, Fight against Crime and Internal Policy Aleksa Bečić.
"Dear journalists of Montenegro,
On behalf of the Government of Montenegro and on my own behalf, I would like to congratulate you on the occasion of January 23 - Journalist's Day in Montenegro. Journalism is not just a profession. It is a public service of the highest national and social importance. Free and responsible media represent the foundation of a democratic order, an indispensable mechanism for controlling government and a key ally in protecting the rule of law. At a time when Montenegro is decisively confronting the legacy of organized crime, systemic corruption and misuse of state resources, the role of the media is becoming strategic. The fight for the security of the state and the trust of citizens is not only waged in the institutions of the security sector, but also in the public space. Through truth, facts and responsible information. Compromises with crime and corruption are unacceptable for either the state or the media," Bečić emphasized in a statement.
He added that Montenegrin journalism also has a special historical and moral dimension.
"At its foundations stands the sacrifice of Duško Jovanović, whose name permanently obliges the state that truth must be stronger than fear, and justice above all interests. His fate reminds us that media freedom has never been a gift, but rather a costly one. That is why the state's obligation is sacred and unequivocal: that no journalist in Montenegro should ever again be threatened because of their work, that every attack be brought to light, and every attempt at pressure or intimidation be decisively sanctioned. Convinced that without free media there is no safe state, nor a truly democratic Montenegro, I once again express my respect and gratitude to you for your responsibility, courage and perseverance in performing your duty," Bečić said.
Embassy of Palestine: We wish you a safe, free and independent professional environment
"We congratulate you on the Day of Journalists of Montenegro and thank you for your cooperation. We wish you a safe, free and independent professional environment," reads the greeting card from the Embassy of Palestine in Montenegro.
RTV Podgorica Union: Free media are not a training ground for partial interests
Free media are not a training ground for partial interests, but the foundation of a democratic society, said the RTV Podgorica Trade Union today, congratulating the International Journalists' Day.
"On the occasion of International Journalists' Day, the RTV Podgorica Union points out the importance of free, professional and responsible journalism, as well as the obligation to consistently protect journalists and media workers from all forms of pressure, threats and attacks," the RTV Podgorica Union stated in its congratulatory message.
They added that journalists and journalism professionals work in an environment of continuous political, economic and institutional pressures, but also in an environment in which professional integrity is sometimes called into question, even through selective, inconsistent or interest-based "protection" by certain actors who formally deal with media freedoms.
They pointed out that such a practice further complicates the position of journalists and relativizes the real problems of security and professional autonomy.
"The RTV Podgorica Trade Union believes that free media are not a training ground for partial interests, but the foundation of a democratic society, and that the protection of journalists must be equal, principled and devoid of any political or other influences. On the occasion of today, we send our congratulations to all journalists and journalists' workers, with a message of solidarity and support in preserving professional dignity, high standards and the right of the public to be informed in a timely and truthful manner," concluded the RTV Podgorica Trade Union.
BS: The work of the media is crucial for responsible information
The work of the media today is of crucial importance for truthful, timely and responsible information to the public on all important topics, said the Bosniak Party (BS).
BS sent its warmest congratulations to all journalists and media workers on the occasion of January 23, Journalists' Day in Montenegro.
"On the path to democratization of our society, the role of journalists is great and significant, therefore it is necessary to provide a safe environment for journalists to work. In this sense, the safety of journalists must be a priority for every government. Once again, we wish you much success, courage and professional achievements in your further work," said the BS.
URA: Journalism is a pillar of every democratic and free society
Journalism is a pillar of every democratic and free society, said the Civic Movement (GP) URA.
GP URA congratulated the Montenegrin Journalists' Day, emphasizing that journalism is a pillar of every democratic and free society, and responsible and courageous journalists are its extremely important corrective factor that enables all citizens to be timely and truthfully informed.
"That is why this day is an opportunity to thank and express our respect for all journalists who, with their selfless effort and commitment, make our society a better place for all of us to live," said URE.
URE notes that this day is also an opportunity for us as a society to look the truth in the eye and see that after numerous attacks on journalists, as well as the murder of Duško Jovanović, we have not made much progress in the fight for justice to be served and for the status of journalists to be improved.
"Therefore, we appeal to all institutions of the system to take responsibility and ensure final justice in all cases of attacks on journalists, as well as to all factors of socio-political life to contribute to ensuring a better status for journalists so that they can perform their work without hindrance, even though we owe them so much," concluded ERO.
HRA: Systemic narrowing of freedom of expression
Journalism in Montenegro is in a state of systemic and continuous narrowing of freedom of expression, the Human Rights Action (HRA) announced.
"We congratulate the Journalists' Day of Montenegro to journalists who dedicatedly and professionally exercise our right to information and help protect other human rights in our society. Special recognition is deserved by those who bravely resist intimidation and other pressures and consistently criticize the government and other authorities. This is how the essence of democracy, which has been the same since ancient Greece, is protected. Their dedication to the public interest despite low incomes and high levels of stress is admirable," the non-governmental organization said.
They point out that government officials are increasingly trying to "discipline" critical voices through abuse of institutional power, misdemeanor proceedings, and public targeting. "The goal of such practices is to intimidate and normalize the practice that criticism of the government is undesirable. On the other hand, they also demonstrate ignorance of democratic rules."
HRA says the continued practice of attacks on journalists – verbal, physical and institutional – is also worrying. "Over the past year alone, the Media Syndicate has recorded as many as 33 incidents, while historically the most serious cases, such as the murder of Duško Jovanović, the attacks on Tufik Softić and the wounding of Olivera Lakić, remain unsolved and point to long-standing impunity and the state's institutional failure to protect those working in the public interest."
Last year, they point out, was particularly marked by brutal physical and verbal attacks on journalists who were professionally reporting on the church ceremony unveiling the monument to Chetnik criminal commander Pavle Đurišić. "Journalists and photojournalists from Pobjeda and Vijesti were then exposed to threats and physical violence while performing their work. This case has not been adequately investigated and punished to this day."
Human Rights Action, they say, does not accept a situation in which attacks on journalists are normalized and accountability is absent.
"We insist on clarifying the murder of Duško Jovanović with the help of impartial expert assistance from abroad, and we warn that this has not been provided since 2018, when the Commission for the Supervision of Investigations of Attacks on Journalists and Media Property first made this request."
They add that the collapse of institutional mechanisms for protecting media freedom, in the form of months-long political blockades of regulatory bodies, ignoring court rulings and "continuation of illegal practices in RTCG", despite warnings from the European Union, is of great concern. Such actions by the authorities undermine the rule of law and aim to subordinate the public service and regulatory bodies to political control, HRA says.
"We express solidarity with journalists who, despite pressure and threats, continue to inform us professionally. Their safety, including economic and other well-being, is not just their concern, but a general need," the statement reads.
Ćulafić: Journalists have a strong influence on forming environmental awareness
Journalism represents one of the fundamental pillars of modern society, because through truthful, timely and responsible information, the media enable citizens to make informed decisions, understand the processes that surround them and actively participate in public life, said the Minister of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Northern Development Damjan Ćulafić.
In his congratulatory message to the journalists, he expressed his gratitude for their professional, responsible and dedicated work that contributes to the strengthening of a democratic society every day.
He emphasizes that the role of journalists in raising issues of general interest and in building a culture of dialogue, transparency and accountability is particularly important.
"MERS recognizes the media as important partners in promoting values related to nature protection, sustainable use of resources, and balanced regional development. Through informing and educating the public, journalists have a strong influence on forming environmental awareness and understanding of the challenges of the modern era, including climate change and the need for a sustainable lifestyle," the statement reads.
He said he believes that good cooperation between institutions and the media will continue and improve, with the common goal of creating a responsible, informed and environmentally aware society.
"I wish all journalists much success in their future work, perseverance in their professional principles, and the strength to continue to contribute to the common good with their pen and voice," said Ćulafić.
Borovinić Bojović: Journalists irreplaceable in preserving democratic values and public interest
Journalists have an irreplaceable role in preserving democratic values and the public interest, said the President of the Capital City Assembly, Jelena Borovinić Bojović, in her congratulations to journalists, editors and media workers.
"The strength of a society is reflected in the strength of its media. Professional and ethical journalism enables citizens to be informed, critical and active participants in public life, and institutions to be more responsible and transparent. That is why journalists are not just observers of social processes, but their active participants," the statement reads.
She emphasized that the right to free expression and accurate information must be accompanied by safe and dignified working conditions for media professionals, with clear institutional support in dealing with the pressures and challenges of the modern era.
"It is a special responsibility of all of us in the public space to contribute to the culture of dialogue, to protect the integrity of the journalistic profession, and to jointly build an environment in which critical thinking and free speech are not only permitted, but also encouraged," she added.
Borovinić Bojović emphasized that the Capital City Assembly will continue to be a reliable partner to the media community in efforts to improve the position of journalists and strengthen their role in building a democratic and open society.
Ministry of Transport: Professional reporting is the foundation of trust between citizens and the system
Journalism plays a key role in the development of a democratic society, informing the public and strengthening the accountability of institutions, the Ministry of Transport said.
They say that professional, objective and responsible reporting is the foundation of trust between citizens and the system, especially in areas of public interest, such as transport infrastructure and safety.
"On this day, we remember with special reverence the journalists who, while performing their work, lost their lives, as well as all those who were exposed to pressure, threats and violence because of their public speech. Their courage and dedication remain a permanent obligation of society to protect media freedom and the safety of journalists. The Ministry of Transport remains committed to open and transparent communication with the media, with mutual respect and cooperation, with the aim of timely and accurate information for the citizens of Montenegro," the statement reads.
Stanišić: Media freedom in Montenegro is not yet fully protected
The President of the SNP Youth Association Podgorica, Vuk Stanišić, said that they express deep respect for all journalists and media workers who, despite pressures and risks, professionally perform their work in the interest of the public.
"The murder of Duško Jovanović, as well as numerous unresolved attacks, threats and pressures on journalists, serve as a reminder that media freedom in Montenegro is not yet fully protected. The absence of full truth and accountability for these cases seriously undermines citizens' trust in institutions and the rule of law. The protection of journalists, the shedding of light on all attacks on media workers and the consistent fight against impunity must be a clear political priority, because without free media there is no responsible government or true democracy," he stated in his congratulatory message on the occasion of Journalists' Day.
Đurašković: The Royal Capital Cetinje appreciates the role of free and independent journalism
The Mayor of the Royal Capital of Cetinje, Nikola Đurašković, said in his congratulatory message that journalism based on professionalism, responsibility and freedom of expression represents an important pillar of a democratic society.
Timely and accurate information to the public is crucial for citizen trust and the transparent functioning of institutions, as well as for strengthening democratic processes in society, he emphasized.
"The capital of Cetinje values the role of free and independent journalism and remains committed to open dialogue and cooperation with the media, with the aim of responsibly informing the public. Aware of the complexity of the modern media environment, I express my respect to all journalists who perform their work in accordance with ethical principles. With the wish for successful further work and preservation of the integrity of the journalistic profession, I once again congratulate you on the Day of Journalists of Montenegro," the greeting reads.
Dukaj: Media freedom and the safety of journalists must be the priority of every government
Free and professional media are one of the pillars of a democratic society, and media freedom and the safety of journalists must be a priority for every government, said Minister of Public Administration Maraš Dukaj.
"On behalf of the Ministry of Public Administration and on my own behalf, I extend my sincere congratulations to all journalists and media workers in Montenegro. Professional, objective and responsible journalism represents one of the key pillars of democracy and is an indispensable factor in strengthening the transparency of institutions and citizens' trust in public administration. The Ministry of Public Administration, adhering to this very principle, achieves quality and strategic cooperation with the media. We remain committed to open cooperation with the media, strengthening access to information and affirming standards that contribute to free and professional journalism," the statement reads.
He emphasized that media freedom and the safety of journalists must be a priority for every government, along with continuous improvement of the conditions for the work of the media.
"I wish you all success in your future work, while respecting the highest ethical and professional principles," said Dukaj.
GA: Without free and safe media, there is no democratic society
Freedom of the media and the safety of journalists are an integral part of the rule of law and one of the key indicators of the democratic capacity of society, said the Civic Alliance, in a congratulatory message to journalists and media workers.
"Despite the adoption of normative and strategic documents in the field of media freedom, Montenegro continues to record a large number of attacks on journalists and media workers, which clearly indicates a serious gap between the formal obligations of the state and their consistent implementation in practice. According to data from the Media Union of Montenegro, 28 attacks on journalists and media workers were recorded in 2025, with female journalists being disproportionately more often exposed to threats and attacks, which requires a comprehensive approach to security, including the gender dimension," the statement reads.
Although, as they say, the adopted Protocol on the Protection of Journalists and the Decision on the Establishment of the Interdepartmental Working Group are important institutional steps, their inconsistent application, as well as inadequate response in individual cases of threats and attacks, including the cases of photojournalists Boris Pejović and Stevo Vasiljević, indicate serious weaknesses in the protection system.
"The actions of the competent institutions in this area directly affect the assessment of Montenegro's progress in the process of accession to the European Union, especially within the framework of negotiation chapters 23 and 24. Progress cannot be measured solely by the adoption of regulations and strategies, but by concrete results in practice and strengthening trust in institutions," adds the CA.
They also point out that the European Commission continuously points to structural challenges in the media sector, including the lack of social dialogue and unfavorable working conditions.
"Montenegro is still assessed as 'moderately prepared' in the area of freedom of expression and media, and the lack of consistent implementation of the legal framework indicates limited institutional capacities."
They say that without free and safe media, there is no democratic society, nor a credible European integration process.
AMU: Freedom of journalistic work must be unconditional and fully protected
Freedom of journalistic work must be unconditional and fully protected, the Agency for Audiovisual Media Services (AMU) announced.
They sent congratulations on the occasion of the Montenegrin Journalists' Day, expressing respect for the professional dedication of journalists, their responsibility and contribution to objective, accurate and timely information to the public.
Journalists' Day in Montenegro is celebrated on January 23, in memory of 1871, when, as they recall, the first issue of the newspaper "Crnogorac" was printed in Cetinje. That date symbolizes the beginning of organized public information in Montenegro and the lasting value of the written word in the function of public interest, said the AMU.
They say that no journalist should be denied the right to report, freely convey information, and ask questions of public importance, and that any infringement of these rights directly threatens the right of citizens to timely, accurate, and impartial information.
"Reliable and responsible information is only possible in an environment where professional independence, institutional support and social respect for the journalistic profession are ensured. Consistent adherence to ethical principles and professional standards represents the strongest mechanism for preserving public trust and preventing irresponsible practices in the media space," the statement reads.
It is necessary, they said, to continuously work on improving the working conditions of journalists in all parts of Montenegro.
"Special attention should be paid to journalists working outside Podgorica, where professional challenges are often more pronounced, in order to ensure equal conditions, more stable engagements and a greater degree of job security, with equal standards of information throughout the country."
They also emphasize that journalists play a key role in shaping media content and bear a special responsibility for accuracy, balance, and protection of the public interest.
"His profession involves not only conveying information, but also actively preserving the dignity of journalism, human rights and democratic values. The Agency for Audiovisual Media Services remains consistently committed to the principles of media freedom, and this commitment is confirmed through open and transparent work, the availability of information of public importance and accountability to the public," the statement reads.
SOBNOR: The journalism profession should be rewarded in accordance with its importance
Protecting freedom of speech, respecting professional and ethical standards, strictly punishing attacks on journalists, and creating social circumstances in which this profession will be respected and rewarded in accordance with its importance must be a clear task for all branches of government, the media, the non-governmental sector, and citizens, said the President of SOBNOR of Montenegro, Radojica Radojević.
"On behalf of SOBNOR of Montenegro and on our own behalf, we congratulate all journalists in our country on January 23, the Day of Journalists of Montenegro, with the wish that their profession in the coming period will achieve the reputation that belongs to this exalted profession. The importance of media workers in a democratic society and the enormous power they have in their hands are confirmed every day, and are especially visible in moments of crisis, which, unfortunately, marked a large part of the past year. On this occasion, we would like to thank journalists in Montenegro for their cooperation, perseverance and dedication to ensuring that our citizens are informed about the work and activities of our organization, which inherits and follows the honorable achievements of our glorious NOB. You, journalists, as well as your fellow cameramen, editors, sound engineers, and program producers, you are all an integral part of social change, not only as witnesses but also as active participants," the statement reads.
He says that today the media network in Montenegro is "quite developed, so much so that it is difficult to say exactly how many TV, radio and print outlets, portals there are", and that social networks are "imposing themselves as an increasingly dominant alternative".
"However, journalists seem to be losing the battle for free speech. Attacks on journalists have not been resolved, some fear targeting and arrest, but many do not realize that they are actually working on the edge of professional ethics and standards," said Radojević.
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