AJM Condemns Inappropriate Communication Directed at Journalist Srgjan Stojanchov

The Association of Journalists of Macedonia (AJM) expresses its concern and strongly condemns any form of inappropriate communication or public pressure directed at journalist Srgjan Stojanchov of TV Telma, who reported on the selection process for candidates for the Council of the Agency for Audio and Audiovisual Media Services (AAAVMS).

The inappropriate and collective communication followed the publication of the article, “Second Attempt for a Position for Verzivoli and a Current Local Councilor as Candidate for the AAAVMS Council,” on TV Telma’s website. A profile named Faik Demiri used extremely offensive and inappropriate language to express dissatisfaction with the subject matter.

According to Mr. Stojanchov, who informed AJM today, he received insulting and highly derogatory comments on social media from close relatives of potential candidates for public office who aspire to join the AAAVMS Council, the main regulatory body for media in the country.

Any form of pressure, insult, or disparagement directed at journalists—especially when it comes from public figures or officials—constitutes an attack on media freedom and democracy.

Journalists have the right and duty to report on matters of public interest, particularly when they involve the appointment of public officials or decisions impacting the public and the media landscape in the country. Their work must be protected from pressure and threats that could compromise freedom of expression and the democratic functioning of institutions.

AJM remains committed to safeguarding journalists and media freedom and will continue to monitor and address all attempts at pressure or manipulation targeting journalists.