The Media Union of Montenegro has vehemently denounced the savage attack on photojournalists Boris Pejović and Stevo Vasiljević from Vijesti and Pobjeda.

“The two well-established photojournalists were assaulted in an environment resembling a public lynching. The circumstances surrounding their work starkly remind us of chaotic and violent scenes characteristic of authoritarian regimes, rather than behavior in a civil society,” the Media Union stated.

They emphasized that the forced entry into the tent, destruction of professional equipment, overt death threats, and psychological harassment represent a significant assault on Pejović and Vasiljević both as individuals and as professionals, as well as on the fundamental democratic principles that were once thought secure.

“It is especially alarming that there was no response from the police when it was apparent that this gathering posed significant risks for such distressing incidents,” the statement continues.

They further pointed out that this attack is the pinnacle of ongoing assaults on journalists and media personnel in Montenegro, who are increasingly facing violence, derogatory remarks, and intimidation amid a dangerously polarized and unhealthy political climate.

“Therefore, we urge political figures to unequivocally denounce this attack, sending a clear message to their supporters that violence against media professionals is intolerable. We also call for the relevant authorities to swiftly identify and prosecute all individuals responsible for this egregious attack, in line with legal standards and the utmost protection of journalists’ rights and safety,” the Media Union of Montenegro concluded in its statement.