Press Council: Media Violated Code and Reported Unprofessionally on May Killings

(Source: Beta/N1)* The media in Serbia grossly violated the Journalists’ Code of Ethics and reported unethically, unprofessionally, and without empathy on the mass murders in 2023 at “Vladislav Ribnikar” Elementary School, Malo Orašje, and Dubona, was noted at a Press Council panel.

The Press Council conducted a study on media coverage of these killings, analyzing articles from daily newspapers Alo, Blic, Danas, Večernje novosti, Informer, Kurir, Nova, Politika, and Srpski telegraf.

Jelena Petković, the author of the study, stated that the media most frequently violated provisions of the Code regarding journalistic diligence, respect for privacy, and journalistic responsibility.

She pointed out the unacceptable exploitation of minors who were in a vulnerable state, some of whom made statements to the media.

She added that the analyzed sample included numerous photographs of grieving parents and reports from the funerals of the murdered children.

“Most media showed a disregard for the families, prioritizing readership over the public interest,” Petković noted.

According to her, the media should not use anonymous sources as this encourages the spread of conspiracy theories and further traumatizes the public.

“Mass murders are tragedies that affect the entire society, and journalists must report with due care. They must not engage in speculation or encourage interviewees to do so. Media should consult experts and focus on reporting that calms the public,” Petković declared.

Tamara Skrozza, a member of the Press Council’s Complaints Commission, stated that information leaks from state bodies are a significant problem but do not absolve journalists.

“Information leaks from investigations are constant in our country. We also had leaks from the institution where the minor suspect is held. This is unacceptable,” Skrozza said.

According to her, when state officials violate the law and publish sensitive data about victims, the media should not relay that information.

“Media should not parrot everything state officials do. The public needs to be protected from such content, but this is not just a problem in Serbia, it is a global issue,” Skrozza noted.