Human Rights Action (HRA) condemns the latest incident against journalists, which occurred last night after the election rally of the Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS) in Pljevlja. According to media reports, local officials and DPS activists verbally and physically attacked journalists of Daily Dan and Daily Vijesti.
For the third time this year, as after the assault on Daily Vijesti journalist Olivera Lakić and verbal attack on Daily Dan journalist Lidija Nikčević, HRA appeals for introduction of new criminal offenses, which would ensure the same protection for journalists as for the officials in carrying out their professional duties.
We noticed that, unfortunately, none of the political parties, participating in the elections, included in their programs proposal of Criminal Code amendments for improved protection of journalists. Therefore, HRA calls upon journalists to organize themselves and stand up for the protection of their right to perform professional duties safely, also through enhancement of legal protection.