Declaration on the Defense of Professional Journalism Adopted at the Annual Assembly of the Journalists of Macedonia

On June 26, 2025, the Association of Journalists of Macedonia (AJM) held its regular annual non-electoral assembly in Skopje, at which the Declaration on the Defense of Professional Journalism was unanimously adopted. With this declaration, the JAM issued a public appeal to political actors, institutions and the public to respect the freedom of the media and the role of journalists.

The document calls for restraint from insults, disqualifications and attacks on journalists, demands the provision of conditions for their uninterrupted and safe work, and also recalls that any pressure on the media poses a threat to democratic processes. Particular attention is paid to the upcoming local elections, with the JAM appealing to the public to recognize the importance of independent journalism in a time of increased political sensitivity.

The assembly represented an opportunity for a critical evaluation of the implemented activities and the setting of priorities for the coming period. The President of the Association of Journalists, Mladen Čadikovski, in his address emphasized:

“Our priority has always been and remains improving the working conditions of journalists, ensuring legal and institutional protection, promoting the transparency of public policies and supporting independent journalism. These are our common challenges that require joint commitment, perseverance and mutual trust. I thank you for your trust and I call on you to continue to fight together for dignified and free journalism.”

Within the framework of the working part of the assembly, the reports on the work of the Association’s bodies in 2024 were also presented. The members present expressed support for further strengthening the Association’s activities, especially in the context of the increased pressures and risks facing the journalistic profession.

In the past year, the Association conducted over 30 trainings and events in Skopje and regional centers, with more than 450 participants. The topics covered investigative journalism, ethics, digital security and artificial intelligence in the media. With the “TIME Academy” and the summer camp for young journalists, continuous support and motivation for the new generation of media workers were provided.

In 2024, 4 physical attacks on journalists were reported, and AJM provided free legal aid in 66 cases and psychological support in 11 cases.

The Annual Report on Media Freedom and Safety of Journalists, as well as the Safety Index for 2024, prepared within the framework of the regional network SafeJournalists, were also presented. The report indicates moderate progress, but also notes ongoing challenges – such as slow court processes, economic uncertainty, self-censorship and the increase in online threats and SLAPP lawsuits.

The results of the project “Protecting Freedom of Expression and the Independence of the Media”, supported by the European Union, were also presented at the assembly. The strategic priorities of AJM were highlighted – solidarity among journalists, support for youth, development of thematic sections and improvement of the legal and media environment through advocacy and campaigns.
The members actively participated in the discussion with specific proposals for further improvement of the situation in the media sector and the role of journalists in protecting the public interest.

Skopje, 26.06.2025