PEN International warned on Friday that journalists in Serbia are being vilified by pro-government media and have been prevented from reporting on the ongoing protests.

A statement said that journalists were attacked, threatened and intimidated by public and law enforcement officials and individuals since the protests started following the November 1 collapse of a concrete awning at Novi Sad Railway Station which claimed 15 lives.

“Once again, independent journalists seeking to inform on nationwide protests in Serbia are the target of the Serbian authorities as well as pro-government media and trolls, who not only prevent them from reporting but vilify them through hateful statements and manipulated videos. We stand with the courageous journalists of Serbia and urge the authorities to ensure their safety,” the statement quoted Ma Thida, Chair of PEN International’s Writers in Prison Committee, as saying.

It added that the Serbian authorities must uphold the right to peacefully protest and ensure a safe and enabling environment for journalists.

“PEN International urges the Serbian authorities to abide by their national and international obligations to uphold the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, and to ensure that journalists, writers and activists can speak out and inform without fear of reprisal,” it said.