News and updates from BCSDN and the region
Disinformation and foreign influence remained a significant challenge to democratic processes in North Macedonia in 2025, affecting media integrity, public trust, and security, according to a report by Metamorphosis Foundation. Beyond persistent pro-Russian narratives linked to the war in Ukraine, the report identifies a rise in anti-EU and anti-NATO messaging, as well as manipulative content
Read more →The European Parliament adopted its interim report on the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), proposing a 10.72 billion EUR allocation for the AgoraEU programme—an increase of 2.14 billion EUR compared to the European Commission’s proposal. The proposal follows a joint open letter, supported by over 500 organisations, including BCSDN, calling for stronger investment in culture
Read more →During the local elections in Serbia on 29 March, multiple physical attacks and obstructions against journalists were reported across at least 10 cities, prompting strong condemnation from the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) and the SafeJournalists Network. Journalists covering the elections were assaulted, threatened, and had equipment damaged or stolen, despite being clearly identified as
Read more →The Trade Union of Media of Montenegro (TUMM) has welcomed the conviction of Pljevlja Mayor Dario Vraneš for offensive remarks directed at investigative journalist Milka Tadić Mijović, noting it as an important step in addressing harmful public discourse. Trade Union of Media of Montenegro emphasised that the court recognised elements of disparagement, gender-based stereotyping, and
Read more →A new publication by Philea, Proven Practices in Gender Mainstreaming: Foundations in Conversation, explores how philanthropic organisations are embedding gender equality across their work. Drawing on practical examples and reflections, the report shows how integrating a gender perspective can strengthen impact across diverse social challenges. Grounded in Philea’s Equality Framework, it connects gender equality to
Read more →The SafeJournalists Network condemns the aggressive, insulting and defamatory rhetoric used by Kemal S. Beganović advisor to Željko Komšić, member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, against journalist Ivica Puljić. Through social media posts, Beganović used degrading language and baseless accusations to discredit the journalist’s professional work and personal integrity, including references linked to
Read more →The Association of Journalists of North Macedonia (AJM) calls for an urgent investigation into repeated coordinated bot attacks targeting the Instagram profiles of the media outlet “Sloboden Pechat,” with the latest incidents occurring in recent days. Thousands of suspicious accounts, often from abroad, reacted within minutes, indicating organised and malicious activity aimed at disrupting the
Read more →Liberties messaging guide explores how to rebuild public support for NGOs working on human rights issues, focusing on how people form opinions and what messages resonate. Research across EU countries show that “undecided” audiences have low awareness and understanding of advocacy NGOs and are not strongly influenced by smear campaigns, meaning their views can shift
Read more →The European Federation of Journalists condemned the dismissal of N1 News Director Igor Božić, warning it raises serious concerns about the future of independent journalism in Serbia. Božić, currently unassigned pending a final decision, is supported by N1 staff and media organisations gathering in solidarity. His removal follows the restructuring of independent newsrooms under the
Read more →A joint statement by European and national human rights organisations raises serious concern over escalating repression of LGBTI+ activists and organisations in Türkiye, highlighting the court-ordered closure of Genç LGBTİ+ and legal cases against its board members and human rights defender Defne Güzel. The cases, based on “morality” and “obscenity” grounds, risk imprisonment and restrictions
Read more →A private criminal lawsuit filed by the Serbian company Millennium Team against N1 journalist Maja Nikolić has raised serious concerns among media freedom advocates, who warn that the case may be intended to intimidate journalists reporting in the public interest. The company is seeking a prison sentence of up to one year, accusing Nikolić of
Read more →On March 25, BCSDN member CRNVO organised a high-level consultative meeting in Podgorica on the draft Law on NGOs, bringing together government, EU, and civil society representatives to assess its impact on civic space. The discussion centred on whether the law would support civil society or introduce increased control. Representing BCSDN, Anja Bosilkova-Antovska raised concerns
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