SMCG: Free and independent investigative journalism is not and must not be subject to criminalization

The Media Union of Montenegro (SMCG) announced today that it strongly condemns the criminal charges filed by the Director of the National Security Agency (ANB) Ivica Janović against journalists from the Center for Investigative Reporting (CIN-CG) Andrea Perišić and Đurđe Radulović for their professional work.

"We would like to inform you that free and independent investigative journalism, which our colleagues dealt with in the article "SECURITY CHECKS IN THE ANB: Is hiring more at the behest of the powerful" (https://www.cin-cg.me/bezbjednosne-provjere-u-anb-u-zaposljava-li-se-vise-po-volji-mocnih/ "), is not and must not be subject to criminalization. We express suspicion that the aim of this report is not to protect the interests of the state, but rather an attempt to intimidate female journalists and discourage further research into topics of public interest," the statement states.

SMCG added that such criminal charges are "a serious signal for the entire media community, especially since they come after recent legal changes that expanded the powers of the ANB, that is, at a time when the need for independent reporting on the work of the security sector is growing."

"We are particularly concerned that our colleagues were asked to reveal their sources. The protection of journalistic sources, as a foundation of free journalism, is guaranteed by the Law on Media of Montenegro, the case law of the European Court of Human Rights and international standards for the protection of media freedom. This practice rightly exists to prevent information of public interest from being hidden from citizens," the statement reads.

SMCG said they are reminding institutions that it is their obligation to provide an environment in which journalists can do their job freely and without fear of reprisal.

"Therefore, we call on the competent prosecutor's office to consider this case in accordance with domestic legislation, international standards of freedom of expression and the public's right to be informed. We also call on the ANB to respond to questions that are of interest to citizens instead of putting pressure on journalists. The Media Union of Montenegro provides full support to colleagues Andrea Perišić and Đurđa Radulović, as well as to all journalists who professionally, responsibly and in the public interest investigate the work of institutions and point out phenomena of importance to society," said the SMCG.