What's New

News and updates from BCSDN and the region

Turkey: Cracks Down on Media Over Criticism of Government Policy on Syria

Turkey has intensified its crackdown on journalists, media outlets, and civil society groups critical of its Syria policy following the recent overthrow of the Assad regime by Turkey-backed opposition forces. Authorities are targeting dissenting voices through arrests, house detentions, and investigations, often accusing them of spreading misinformation or supporting terrorism. Protests against the treatment of

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Serbia: Student Protests Intensify Over Corruption and Government Allegations

Serbian students are leading nationwide protests against President Aleksandar Vučić’s government, sparked by a deadly canopy collapse at the Novi Sad railway station in November, which killed 15 people and exposed corruption tied to infrastructure projects involving Chinese companies. Rejecting accusations of Western funding to overthrow the government, students have suspended classes at over 40

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Turkey: MFRR Calls the EU to Act Against ‘Agent of Influence’ Bill Threatening Basic Freedoms

In a letter to the European Commission, the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR) raises concerns that the proposed “agent of influence” bill in Turkey poses a serious threat to fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression and press freedom. Under consideration by the Turkish Parliament, the bill could see individuals facing 3-7 years of imprisonment for

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BiH: Journalist Threatened, Urgent Safety Measures Demanded

BiH Journalists’ Association is calling for urgent protective measures for an investigative journalist after reports of an assassination plot by an organised crime group. The journalist, known for exposing links between international drug cartels and crime networks, has faced significant threats and pressure, including from high-level politicians. The leader of the group was arrested in

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Serbia: CSOs Coalition Demands Transparency Amid Concerns Over Misuse of Public Funds

The coalition “Open about Tenders,” including BCSDN member Civic Initiatives, has raised alarms about the misuse of public funds in Serbia’s state-administered grants to CSOs. While recent tenders have seen a rise in funding allocations, they disproportionately benefit a select few organizations—some lacking transparency, expertise, or public visibility. Concerns include favoritism, mismanagement, and the absence

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Slovenia: The CIVICUS Monitor Upgrades Country’s Civic Space to “Open” – Significant Strides in Fostering CS Engagement and Press Freedom

The CIVICUS Monitor has upgraded Slovenia’s civic space rating to “Open” in its latest report, People Power Under Attack 2024. This milestone highlights Slovenia’s efforts to strengthen democratic processes, foster civil society engagement, and advance press freedom. Key reforms include securing the independence of public broadcaster RTV Slovenia, enhancing civil society consultations, and passing a

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Georgia: Pro-EU Protests Intensify, Followed by Violence, Arrests, and Crackdowns

Protests in Georgia intensified after the ruling Georgian Dream (GD) party suspended EU accession talks, drawing condemnation and widespread demonstrations. Thousands gathered in Tbilisi and other cities, demanding the restoration of EU negotiations and new elections. The government’s response included aggressive tactics, such as water cannons, tear gas, and arrests, with over 300 detainees by

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Partners Albania and MCIC Published the 2023 Reports on the Civil Society Environment in Albania and North Macedonia

BCSDN members Partners Albania and MCIC published their 2023 reports on the civil society environment, highlighting key civil society challenges in Albania and North Macedonia. In terms of basic freedoms, CSOs in both countries operate in an environment where freedom of association is legally guaranteed and practiced. However, Albania faces setbacks with delays in operationalizing

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Key Insights from the Second European Anti-SLAPP Conference

The Second European Anti-SLAPP Conference, held on November 14 at the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, addressed the growing threat of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) and their misuse to suppress public participation and freedom of expression. Co-organized by the CoE, CASE, and ECPMF, the event focused on implementing key frameworks such as the

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Albania: Media Caught in a Triangle of Power and Pressure

In Albania, journalists face increasing pressure from a complex triangle involving media, politics, and business interests, which undermines free press and public accountability. Journalists struggle with precarious working conditions and lack of legal protections, leading to self-censorship. Women journalists, in particular, deal with sexual harassment, underreporting of wages, and limited social security benefits. Legal threats,

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BiH: Call for Stronger Protecion of Journalist Nataša Miljanović Zubac

Journalist Nataša Miljanović Zubac of RTRS has faced escalating threats, including arson, death threats, and intimidation, since 2022. Despite police measures, protection remains inadequate as none of the eight reported incidents have led to prosecutions. Recent threats include chilling messages that underscore her unsafe working conditions and limited movement. The Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR)

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Bulgaria: Press Groups Condemn Attacks on Journalists During Elections

Press freedom organizations have condemned four incidents of violence and intimidation against journalists during Bulgaria’s parliamentary elections on October 27. These attacks included threats, obstruction, and physical violence, with one bTV camera operator. The perpetrators, supporters of the DPS-New Beginning coalition, were detained by police. Press advocates demand thorough investigations, accountability for attackers, and disciplinary

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