The Media Council for Self-Regulation (MSS) calls on the media not to contribute to the spread of religious and national hatred with their reporting. We invite the media to check the data provided by politicians, on the one hand, and official institutions, on the other, about the number of foreign citizens who are currently in Montenegro. Manipulation of numbers is part of political narratives that encourage the spread of nationalism and hatred in the current situation. Professional media play a key role in preserving civil and democratic order - especially at times when messages calling for bigotry and intolerance are spread in the public space.
The media council points out that such narratives are not only an internal issue of Montenegro, but the subject of attention of international institutions, EU partners and organizations that monitor the level of media freedom and respect for human rights. The European future of Montenegro depends on its ability to remain a multi-ethnic, democratic and open state in which the media is responsible, and hate speech is unequivocally condemned and sanctioned.
We invite all institutions, political actors and media to act in accordance with these principles, because peace, stability and European values must be above anyone's political interest.
The Media Council for Self-Regulation warns the media that the manner of reporting on the events on Zabjelo and other incidents involving foreign nationals can directly contribute to the growth of national intolerance, incitement of hate speech and serious disruption of social stability in Montenegro.
Emphasizing the national affiliation of perpetrators and victims, as well as transmitting ethnically coloured messages and offensive slogans, is not information in the public interest, but the creation of a hostile atmosphere that can lead to an escalation of violence.
MSS reminds the media that guilt is individual, and that the actions of individuals must not be the basis for stereotyping or stigmatizing entire groups.
Transmitting offensive nationalist messages is contrary to the professional and ethical standards of the journalistic profession, and spreading religious and national intolerance is a criminal offense in our legislation. The insulting shouts that were heard last night in Podgorica against the Turks are the product of entrenched nationalist attitudes in the country that can be heard at some gatherings.
MSS especially warns that political parties and public actors must not use these events to spread misinformation and to promote right-wing ideologies and incite division in society. The instrumentalization of the incident for political purposes, with the aim of promoting extremist narratives, represents a direct attack on the constitutional values of Montenegro and its commitment to the European path.
One of the main values of Montenegro, regardless of the current situation, is that it is a country of interreligious and interethnic harmony. Any deviation from these values represents a serious risk to the country's internal stability and international credibility. Montenegro is also known as a country that provided shelter to people of various nations, which is one of its greatest values. With everyone who came to Montenegro, temporarily or stayed to live in it, this country built its distinctive spirit.
Ranko Vujović
Executive Secretary
Media council for self-regulation
