AJM to PODEM: Public Officials Must Show Respect for Journalists

The Association of Journalists of Macedonia (AJM) has sent a letter of concern and reaction to the president of the political party PODEM, Živko Jankulovski, regarding the inappropriate and unprofessional behavior on social media by the Deputy Minister of Finance and party member, Nikolče Jankulovski, towards journalist Aneta Blaževska.

Deputy Minister Jankulovski commented in a disparaging tone on posts from the online media outlet apla.mk, which were shared on social media, addressing journalist Blaževska with the following words: “Go ahead, keep it up. And as for qualifications, you are far from professional journalism ”

AJM considers such behavior towards journalists and the media to be unacceptable, especially when it comes from public officials. Respect for journalists and their work is a fundamental component of a democratic society.

We emphasize that respect for journalists and their professional work is a key element of democratic dialogue and call on all representatives of public institutions to foster a culture of mutual respect and professional communication.

Journalists play a vital role in informing the public and monitoring the work of institutions. Any attempt to demean or undermine their integrity weakens citizens’ trust in democratic processes.

We encourage political parties and public institutions to maintain open and constructive communication with the media as part of their commitment to transparency and accountability to the public.