The Media Union of Montenegro (SMCG) expresses its full and unreserved support for its colleague Jelena Jovanović, after Čedomir Radičević sent her a misogynistic and crude insult, the SMCG announced today.
"We note that this incident is only the latest in a series of continuous online attacks, threats and attempts at intimidation to which Jovanović has been exposed for several years due to her work. She has previously reported multiple online attacks, insults, attempts at intimidation to the police, including serious death threats," the statement said.
SMCG added that they welcome the quick response of the police and judicial authorities, but at the same time call for the systematic strengthening of protective measures for journalists.
"Penalties such as the fine imposed on Radičević last night can have a deterrent effect, but consistent protection and prevention are necessary for a safe working environment for media professionals. In light of current developments on the political scene, we particularly point out the gender dimension of the threats to which female journalists are exposed, as well as the huge number of women in public space. Misogynistic comments and messages targeting Jovanović on the basis of her gender represent a pattern that is persistently repeated in society, and which, unfortunately, we also witness through public appearances and the behavior of holders of the highest state functions," said SMCG.
The Podgorica Misdemeanor Court yesterday fined Čedomir Radičević (70) 400 euros for the crude and misogynistic insults he made to Vijesti journalist Jelena Jovanović.
Radičević was arrested yesterday after Jovanović reported him to the police for online attacks, insults and attempted intimidation, which she claims she was subjected to because of her journalistic work.
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SMCG calls on public office holders, political actors and all social entities to recognize the harmfulness of this behavior and to clearly and unequivocally condemn any form of pressure, threats and discrediting of media workers.
"We draw the attention of citizens that their comments in the online space have the same, if not greater, weight as those in everyday communication. Misogynistic, threatening and discrediting comments, no matter how unfounded, leave real negative consequences on the people who are their targets. We encourage colleagues, like Jelena Jovanović, to report all attacks, threats and pressures to which they are exposed, because reporting is the first and necessary step towards protecting journalists and fighting against the normalization of violence against media professionals," said SMCG.
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