National Report – Working Conditions for Journalists and Other Media Workers in Serbia
Author: Dejan KOŽUL
The conclusions of the National Report are:
It is necessary to rebuilt strong journalist union. The existing few lack organizational capacity and credibility. They are unable to give full protection to the journalists and all media employees.
It is necessary to work with students and faculties to prepare them for the market to avoid problems journalists have REGIONAL REPORT – MARCH 2015 1 3 now and to ensure that they know exactly what are their labor rights.
Self-organization at a micro level is recommended. Journalists should be aware of their role and significance in the public sphere. Self organizing on micro level, inside of their redaction could protect them as a journalists working in a public interest.
It is necessary to draw a clear line between media and the state and the state interest in media field.
A system of continuous evaluation inside of media is recommended. Such a system could act as a self regulation mechanism within the media outlets, thus protecting the employees from further dismissal. This evaluation system should determine the level of salaries.
A special media department inside the court system is necessary. This would speed up their work and well educated judges will understand all media specificity.
The journalists must be aware of their own responsibility and of their own strength. Therefore it is necessary to restore their dignity.
The lack of solidarity makes the journalists situation even more more difficult. Strengthening solidarity is crucial.
Access the full report here.