Open Letter from the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia, Marko Đurić, to International Organizations
I am writing to you on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia considering recent developments that have caused considerable public concern in our country—most notably, the multi-day blockade of Radio Television of Serbia (RTS).
This situation raises serious concerns at both the national and international levels, and I believe it is of utmost importance to inform you of our position.
As a public broadcaster, Radio Television of Serbia plays a vital role in informing the public and ensuring pluralism of opinion within our society. Its freedom and independence are fundamental pillars of democratic values and of an enlightened society.
In recent days, we have been confronted with challenges that have culminated in the blockade of RTS. This not only obstructs the functioning of the media outlet but also risks having far-reaching consequences for the media landscape, freedom of expression, the public’s right to information, and democracy in Serbia.
I would especially like to draw your attention to the fact that journalists have been denied freedom of movement—a basic prerequisite for performing their professional duties. Their personal rights have also been infringed upon, as they have been denied access to essential food and supplies. Even more concerning is the fact that they have been subjected to ongoing personal threats over an extended period, effectively placing a target on their backs.
Such actions, in the case of RTS, represent violations not only of the laws of the Republic of Serbia but also of international law and universally accepted democratic norms.
In light of this, I call on you to raise your voice clearly and publicly against this blatant violation of fundamental human rights and democratic principles, and to support efforts to ensure that the media can operate freely, without pressure or intimidation.
We firmly believe that blockades and infringements of basic professional and personal rights cannot serve as a path toward resolving or easing current tensions—especially considering that public opinion and institutions in Serbia remain the bedrock of our democracy.
For this reason, it is imperative that all relevant actors—institutions, international organizations, and all of us as individuals and citizens of Serbia—extend our support to the media as one of the key pillars of any democratic society.
Respectfully,
Marko Đurić
Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia