Commissioner for Protection of Equality, Brankica Jankovic, congratulates the World Press Freedom Day to all journalists in Serbia and emphasizes that free and independent media are a key value of any democratic society.

Freedom of media expression must not be endangered, because it is extremely important for all citizens, and that is why the state has an obligation and responsibility to preserve and protect those values. It is inadmissible for journalists to be exposed to violence, and it is necessary to enable them to work safely, because no one should be in fear for doing their job.

At the same time, the media are a powerful force in every society and have a responsibility to combat against hate speech, discriminatory statements and sexist attitudes, which are becoming more common in our public space. Given that media have key role in shaping the views of public opinion, professional and responsible reporting with constant improvement of reporting standards that promote tolerance and mutual respect are the obligation of all who work in the media, Commissioner concludes.