The investigative courage and critical thinking of journalists represent the fundamental protection of freedom of thought and democratic values of every society, said the President of the Parliament, Andrija Mandić, on the occasion of January 23rd - Journalist's Day in Montenegro.
Congratulating the holiday, Mandić emphasized that the role of journalists is irreplaceable, because it is their work that contributes to the strengthening of an open, responsible and free society.
"Journalists are guardians of the public interest and the voice of conscience. Their commitment to the truth and willingness to ask difficult questions form a strong bulwark of freedom," said Mandić.
He also paid tribute to the pioneers of journalism, from the first publications like "Glas Crnogorca" and "Narodna misli" to "those we have reached today – a large number of editorial offices, not only printed but also electronic."
Mandić emphasized that the fight against organized crime and corruption is a shared obligation of the entire society, but that journalists, due to the nature of their profession, are on the front lines of that fight.
"Although the responsibility lies with all of us, journalists are the ones who, guided by professional ethics and public interest, are most often the first to open topics that touch upon the most dangerous structures of society. Such a fight is often associated with great personal risk, and Duško Jovanović paid with his life for the fight for free speech and opposition to organized crime," said the President of the Parliament.
The Day of Journalists of Montenegro, as he emphasized, is an opportunity and a reminder of the obligation of institutions to persevere in the fight for truth and justice in cases of attacks on journalists, and to provide a safe environment in which they will be able to freely and responsibly carry out their work.
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