Human Rights Action (HRA) expresses its full support for journalist and editor Nemanja Živaljević, who demonstrated professional and personal integrity in the face of direct censorship.

Nemanja resigned from the Podgorica editorial team of TV Newsmax Balkans in protest after the Belgrade-based editorial board decided to censor his interview with the former Prime Minister of Montenegro, Zdravko Krivokapić. The censored segment included criticism of the Serbian Orthodox Church Patriarch Porfirije:

“– What parts were cut?

The ones addressing the inappropriate and surprising statements made by Patriarch Porfirije during his visit to the Kremlin, particularly two claims: his unfounded assertion that Serbia is facing a so-called color revolution orchestrated by Western intelligence services, and his reaction to political developments in Montenegro – a reaction that was both improper and unprecedented. I linked these views to the personal relationship between the Patriarch and Aleksandar Vučić, highlighting that the Patriarch positions himself as indebted to the President and therefore promotes his political agenda. I hope the upcoming Assembly of the Serbian Orthodox Church will address these matters – Krivokapić stated.”

At a time when the media is increasingly under political and other compromising influences, this kind of professional act restores public trust in journalism and deserves respect.

Free, responsible, and ethical journalists are essential for safeguarding the interests of democratic society and ensuring everyone’s right to truthful and complete information.

Bravo, Nemanja!