Journalist groups: Urgently prosecute those behind threats to Veran Matic

In a press release, NUNS stated that the threat was posted from the account @glisha_m, featuring a photograph of Matic and the message: “Let’s cut off the hydra’s head!” The post appeared under a clip from the television program Bez Cenzure (“Without Censorship”) - on which Matic had appeared as a guest - that had been shared on X.

The Association warned that these threats, which effectively amount to a call for murder, pose a serious risk to Matic’s safety. “These threats come after months of targeting, discrediting, and smear campaigns against Matic in pro-regime media,” the press release added.

“The continuous portrayal of individuals as ‘enemies,’ accompanied by hate speech and calls for violence, creates an atmosphere in which such threats become an expected consequence,” the press release said.

NUNS noted that the lack of a timely institutional response further endangers the victim and sends a message that death threats and intimidation are tolerated, thereby encouraging further attacks.

The Association urged the police and the Public Prosecutor’s Office to immediately identify the person behind the @glisha_m account, investigate the circumstances of the case, and take all necessary legal measures to ensure the perpetrator is prosecuted.

NUNS reiterated that every attack or threat against media professionals constitutes an attack on freedom of expression and the public’s right to be informed. Effective protection for journalists and a decisive institutional response are essential for preserving a safe environment for media work and safeguarding a democratic society, the Association added.

UNS condemns social media threats against Veran Matic

The Journalists’ Association of Serbia (UNS) also condemned the threats against Matic and demanded that authorities urgently locate and punish the author of the post.

Matic told UNS that he reported the threat on Wednesday, adding that the account in question is already known for making previous threats against other journalists and media workers.

“In none of those previous cases have the authorities identified the person behind the account,” Matic said.

UNS said that threats against journalists are unacceptable and that efficient action by the police and the prosecution is crucial for ensuring the safety of the press and preventing a culture of impunity.