SHGM: Delays must not take the place of justice for attacks on journalists

On November 2, the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, the Association of Journalists of Macedonia (SHGM) warned that every attack left unpunished puts media freedom and the public’s right to information at risk. According to the association, preventing this requires an effective response from institutions and timely justice.

SHGM stressed that protecting journalists goes beyond their personal safety: it is a prerequisite for free, professional journalism. When threats, violence, pressure and organized online attacks bring no consequences for those responsible, they create fear and send the message that media workers can be attacked with impunity.

The association has noted some positive developments in the institutional response in recent years, particularly in several recent cases of physical attacks. Nevertheless, it said impunity and drawn-out proceedings remain serious problems. Some cases have gone unresolved for years, while online threats, harassment and campaigns to discredit journalists are increasing, particularly those targeting women journalists.

SHGM expects the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Public Prosecutor’s Office and the courts to coordinate their actions and respond promptly and effectively to all attacks and threats against journalists. According to the association, filing a report or opening an investigation is not enough: institutions must establish the facts, identify those responsible and sanction them as required by law.

The association also called for digital violence not to be treated as a less serious form of attack. Threats on social media, organized smear campaigns and hate speech can directly undermine journalists’ safety and their willingness to report freely in the public interest.

In its message for November 2, SHGM emphasized that the passage of time cannot replace justice. Every attack that remains unsolved is not only an unresolved case but also a potential signal to future perpetrators that violence against journalists may have no consequences. The association expects measurable results from the National Committee.

SHGM welcomed the decision to establish the National Committee for the Protection and Safety of Journalists, in which it is also expected to participate. According to the association, the committee could improve coordination between institutions and the media community and help systematically improve journalists’ safety.

Nevertheless, SHGM said the committee should be judged by concrete results. The National Action Plan, it said, should set out clear obligations, deadlines and measurable indicators for institutions, alongside a mechanism for monitoring and regularly reporting on implementation. Only then can the committee function effectively rather than remain a formal coordinating body.

SHGM considers the active involvement of the Public Prosecutor’s Office and the judiciary essential to this process. Without their direct participation, the association said, there can be no comprehensive institutional response to attacks. Protecting journalists does not end with police intervention; it requires timely action by prosecutors and effective resolution in the courts.