Investigative journalism in Bosnia and Herzegovina remains one of the riskiest jobs. Journalists who investigate corruption and crime are often exposed to threats, intimidation and physical attacks. Their work often depends on European and American funds and donations, while institutional protection is often lacking. Experts warn that protecting those who uncover the truth is a matter not only of the profession, but also of a country’s democracy.
“It is obvious that the suppression of media freedom has been on the scene for a long time. What happened in the RS with those two laws has in a way systematized that intention, but neither the Federation nor Brčko are free from these pressures. Whoever rebels gets either physical beatings or verbal ones,” warns journalist Dženana Alađuz.
According to the Journalists’ Helpline, only 25.4 percent of reported cases end in favor of journalists. Amendments to criminal legislation that would better protect media professionals have not yet been implemented. Instead of systemic protection, they are supported by journalist associations – through convictions, legal aid and connections with international organisations.
“The problem is the lack of understanding by the judiciary, police and all other institutions about the value of investigative work and international standards for the protection of journalists. Another important thing is to activate contact points in the police and prosecutors’ offices – 32 people in BiH from police structures have special powers to take care of the safety of journalists and to be available to those who report a case,” says Borka Rudić, Secretary General of the Association of BH Journalists.
The European journalist community sees salvation in the implementation of the EU Law on Freedom of the Media, which came into force on Friday. This act protects journalists from political pressure, prohibits spying on the media and guarantees editorial independence. Although it is not applied in BiH, it is recommended that its provisions be respected due to the country’s European path.
“The evening before the adoption of such an important law for the freedom of journalism, the authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina are arresting Nataša Miljanović, and it really does not seem to me that there is good political will to accept and implement the act on media freedoms. And good political will from all of us is a prerequisite for any good document to come to life,” said Maja Sever, president of the European Federation of Journalists.
The conclusion of the interlocutors is clear – journalists need real protection, not just combative statements and announcements. They believe that changes will only come when society understands that the defense of those who reveal the truth is the foundation of democracy.
