From 18-20 September in Mavrovo, North Macedonia, the Association of Journalists, Free Press Unlimited, and the Netherlands Helsinki Committee hosted the third regional conference, “Stronger Together: Journalists and the Judiciary Protect Media Freedoms.” The event brought together over 90 journalists, judges, and prosecutors to strengthen collaboration and build mutual trust between the media and the judiciary, essential for upholding the rule of law in the Western Balkans. This collaboration is critical as the region faces increasing threats to media freedom and judicial independence.
Over the course of three days, participants engaged in discussions and workshops focusing on the challenges facing independent journalism, legal protections for journalists, and the judiciary’s crucial role in safeguarding democratic values. The event featured a mix of panel discussions, interactive training sessions, and presentations from key regional actors, providing a well-rounded platform for both learning and networking.
Key topics covered during the conference included legal threats such as impunity and disinformation, both of which severely impact the rule of law and media freedom in the region. The conference highlighted how disinformation undermines media independence, with examples from the Western Balkans and the Netherlands demonstrating effective countermeasures. Additionally, discussions addressed the European Media Freedom Act, focusing on its implications for the region, especially in promoting transparency in media ownership and fostering ongoing dialogue between journalists and the judiciary.
One of the panels addressed SLAPPs (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation) and the legal threats they pose to journalists and other actors in the Western Balkans. Discussions centered on legislative efforts to combat the growing use of SLAPPs. Marija Vishinova Shemova, BCSDN’s Communications Coordinator, presented BCSDN’s regional research on SLAPPs, highlighting how these lawsuits not only target journalists but also CSOs and activists working to protect the civic space and the overall democracy in the region. She pointed out the lack of awareness of SLAPPs among judges, prosecutors, and even CSOs and activists themselves. Marija stressed the chilling effect of SLAPPs, their financial and psychological impact, and the need for stronger legal protections, coordinated advocacy, and capacity building, particularly for judges, to effectively combat these cases.
The conference concluded that media freedom is a cornerstone of developed democracies, with journalists serving as vital watchdogs, ensuring that governments are held accountable to citizens’ needs. Unfortunately, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, and Serbia, media professionals, and activists are not always safe in their work. To address these threats, the laws in these countries must be aligned with EU standards, and stronger regional coalitions are needed to provide a united response.
For more details on the conference and future initiatives, visit the website of the Association of Journalists of Macedonia.
BCSDN recognizes SLAPPs as crucial topic related to one of the key standards for ensuring an enabling environment for civil society in WBT – the legal guarantees and respect of the fundamental freedoms of association, assembly and expression. Join us in the fight against SLAPPs!