Wikipedia:WikiProject Serbia/Reliable and unreliable sources
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Since the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) came to power in 2012, Serbia's media landscape has undergone significant deterioration, leaving genuinely independent journalism operating in increasingly hostile and marginalised space. Although the Constitution of Serbia guarantees freedom of expression,[1] journalists frequently operate in a restrictive environment and tend to practice self-censorship, while the media laws adopted in 2023 and amended in 2024 failed to improve the legal framework and the media regulatory authority (Regulatorno telo za elektronske medije, REM) remains dysfunctional. Serbia ranked 104th in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index compiled by Reporters Without Borders, reflecting a severe detoriation in media independence.
A central feature of the current landscape is systematic media capture by the state and the SNS. All private broadcasters with national coverage (nacionalna frekvencija) are owned or controlled by entities close to the ruling SNS, while the state-party machinery exercises influence over private media primarily through public subsidies and state advertising, which effectively functions as a form of subsidy with minimal disclosure requirements. In 2022, the REM awarded all four national broadcast frequencies to strongly pro-government television stations, overlooking applications from independent and critical news channels including N1 and Nova (formerly known as Nova S). In October 2023, amendments to media laws re-legalised indirect state media ownership, enabling the state-owned telecommunications company Telekom Srbija to acquire several television stations and online outlets, a move media freedom organisations warned would further expand undesirable state influence over the information space.
Despite the legal guarantees, journalists in Serbia are exposed to intimidation, editorial pressure from politicians, and politically connected media owners, selective exclusion from official venues, and abusive lawsuits intended to suppress investigative reporting. The president of Serbia Aleksandar Vučić has repeatedly targeted independent media, labelling the reporting of N1 and Nova "pure terrorism", and in March 2025 Amnesty International published evidence that Serbian authorities had deployed Pegasus spyware against at least two investigative journalists focused on state-sponsored corruption. Physical attacks against journalists increased by 367% in 2025, yet only three convictions were secured during that period, reflecting the near-complete impunity that attackers enjoy.
The small number of outlets that do maintain editorial independence operate under sustained financial and political pressure. As of September 2025, Mapping Media Freedom had documented 200 alerts directed against journalists, media outlets, and journalists' associations in Serbia since November 2024 alone, three times more than in the previous year. In April 2025, Reporters Without Borders urged the European Union to factor Serbia's press freedom violations into its review of the country's EU membership application, with RSF and eleven co-signing organisations calling on the Serbian government to cease all attacks on journalists and take concrete steps to guarantee editorial independence.
Editors should exercise considerable cautions when evaluating Serbian media sources, distinguishing between outlets that maintain journalistic independence and those that function, in effect, as instruments of political communication.
Generally reliable sources
[edit]| Name | Media | Type | Dates | Editorial stance | Description | Avoid | Owner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 021.rs | 021.rs | radio station, news site | 1997– | independent | 021.rs is a portal and radio station based in Novi Sad, focusing on local news for the Vojvodina region while also covering national topics. It has built a strong reputation for being the most credible local source in Serbia, often breaking stories about local corruption, urban planning issues, and civic movements. Its reporting is grounded in local expertise and close ties to the community. It maintains a high degree of independence from both local and national government structures. Despite the challenges faced by local media, 021.rs has remained professional and critical, avoiding the tabloidisation that has plagued other regional outlets. It is a vital source for factual information about Vojvodina and a model for professional local journalism. | Radio-difuzno preduzeće "021" d.o.o. | |
| Al Jazeera Balkans | balkans.aljazeera.net | television station, news site | 2011–2025 | independent | Al Jazeera was extensively discussed at WP:RSP and is considered a reliable source. Its regional branch broadcasts from Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, while it also has a strong presence in Serbia. It adheres to high international standards of journalism, providing in-depth analysis and investigative reports that are often superior in quality to local commercial outlets. Its coverage is regional in scope, treating the former Yugoslav space as a unified information market. It has a professional production, rigorous fact-checking, and diverse range of perspectives. While it is funded by Qatar, its Balkan editorial office operates with significant independence regarding local political disputes. It frequently reports on corruption and human rights issues across the region, making it a vital source for unbiased information. | Al Jazeera Media Network | |
| Balkan Insight | balkaninsight.com | news site | 2004– | independent, investigative | Balkan Insight was discussed at WP:RSP and is considered a reliable source. Balkan Insight is the online publication of the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN), a network of non-governmental organisations across Southeast Europe. It specialises in deep-dive investigative journalism, transitional justice, and tracking corruption. Their reports are often the result of months of research and data analysis, providing transparency into government spending and judicial processes. As an inependent outlet funded largely by international grants and donor organisations, BIRN is free from local political and corporate influence. It has an evidence-based approach and its track record of uncovering major scandals that lead to public accountability. Its work is frequently cited by international organisations and foreign media for its depth and accuracy. | Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN) | |
| BBC News Serbia | bbc.com/serbian/lat | news site | 1922– | independent, neutral | BBC News was discussed at WP:RSP and is considered a reliable source. BBC News Serbia is the local language service of the BBC, operating as part of the BBC World Service. It provides news, features, and analysis with the same editorial standards applied to the BBC's global output. The outlet focuses on accuracy, impartiality, and providing context to complex social and political issues within Serbia and the wider world. It is highly reliable because it adheres to a strict editorial charter that mandates neutrality and fact-verification. The service often covers social topics and minority issues that are ignored by mainstream domestic media. Because it is funded by the UK license fee and operates under international management, it is completely insulated from Serbian government influence or local political bias. | Government of the United Kingdom | |
| Beta News Agency (Novinska agencija Beta) |
beta.rs | news agency, news site | 1992– | independent | Beta is one of the leading independent news agencies in Serbia. It provides a wide range of news services to domestic and international media, focusing on factual accuracy, speed, and political neutrality. The agency is respected for its coverage of regional events and its commitment to professional standards without yielding to government pressure. Because it operates as a private entity independent of state funding, Beta maintains a high level of editorial autonomy. It avoids sensationalism and serves as a primary source for other media outlets seeking verified information. Its reliability stems from its long-standing history of resisting censorship and its adherence to the journalistic code of ethics, making it a cornerstone of credible reporting in the Balkans | various (Radomir Diklić as director), see Beta News Agency#Ownership | |
| Danas | danas.rs | newspaper, news site | 1997– | independent, opposition-leaning | Cooperates with BBC News Serbia and additionally publishes City Magazine. Danas is a daily newspaper of record known for its intellectual approach and its consistent criticism of authoritarianism in Serbia. It is one of the few remaining print media outlets that provides a platform for liberal and pro-European voices, as well as critical academics and activists. Its editorial policy is focused on the rule of law, human rights, and political accountability. The newspaper is reliable because it prioritises factual accuracy and provides in-depth analysis of political events. Although it is cleraly critical of the SNS, it does not resort to the fabricated scandals or hate speech typical of the tabloid press. Under its current ownership by United Group, it has maintained its tradition of being a 'resistance' paper while adhering to professional ethics. It is often attacked by the SNS-led government. | United Group | |
| Deutsche Welle | dw.com/sr | news site | 1953– | independent, neutral | Deutsche Welle was discussed at WP:RSP and is considered a reliable source. Its Serbian service provides critical reporting on both domestic Serbian affairs and European integration. DW is known for its professional interviews, political analysis, and columns that offer diverse perspectives on Serbian society. It often tackles sensitive topics such as the rule of law, media freedom, and foreign influence in the Balkans. DW is committed to German public broadcasting standards, which emphasise pluralism and factual correctness. It remains independent of Serbian political power and frequently provides a platform for voices that are marginalised in the local media landscape. Its reporting is consistently professional and avoids the inflammatory rhetoric common in the Serbian tabloid press. | Federal Government of Germany | |
| Euronews Serbia | euronews.rs | television channel, news site | 1993– | moderately pro-Serbian Progressive Party | Euronews Serbia is a franchise of the international Euronews network, launched as a parnership with a local entity but adhering to the parent brand's editorial guidelines. It focuses on a 'no-comment' style of news delivery and comprehensive reporting on European and regional affairs. The channel aims to bridge the gap between polarised media camps in Serbia by providing a more moderated and factual approach to news. While some critics questioned its local ownership ties, the outlet has maintained a professional and balanced tone that avoids the aggressive bias seen in pro-government or staunchly opposition media. | Telekom Srbija | |
| FoNet News Agency (Novinska agencija FoNet) |
fonet.rs | news agency, news site | 1994– | independent | FoNet is one of the first private news agencies in Serbia, founded as an alternative to state-controlled media. It produces high-quality multimedia content, including text, photos, and video news, serving both domestic and foreign clients. The agency is known for its concise, professional, and balanced reporting style, often covering protests and political developments that state agencies might overlook. The agency's work is characterised by a strict focus on facts and a lack of editorial bias. It provides a comprehensive overview of the socio-political landscape while maintaining professional distance from all political actors. FoNet's independence is sustained through its commercial operations and diverse client base, ensuring its reports remain free from government dictates. | Zoran Sekulić | |
| Insajder | insajder.net | television channel, news site | 2014– | independent, investigative | Insajder is a renowned investigative media house that began as a TV program on B92 and evolved into an independent portal and television channel. It is famous for its uncompromising investigative series on systemic corruption, organised crime, and the links between politics and sports hooligans. Its work has frequently led to official investigations and has won numerous international awards for journalistic bravery. The outlet is considered exceptionally reliable due to its regiorous verification process and its refusal to bow to threats or political pressure. Insajder prioritises the public interest over political interests, maintaining a strictly critical stance toward any abuse of power. Its transition to a full-time news channel has allowed it to provide daily news with the same high level of scrutiny and integrity. | Insajder produkcija (Brankica Stanković) | |
| Istinomer | istinomer.rs | news site | 2009– | independent, fact-checker, investigative | Istinomer is Serbia's premier fact-checking portal, dedicated to holding public officials accountable for their statements and promises. It monitors the consistency, truthfulness, and feasibility of political discourse, using a transparent methodology to grade officials. The portal is a member of the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN), ensuring its practices meet global standards. Its reliability is based on its evidence-based approach, where every claim is backed up by publicly available data or official documents. While often viewed as critical of the government because of the frequency of official misstatements, Istinomer applies the same standards to all political actors. It is an essential tool for verifying information in an environment saturated with political misinformation. | Centar za istraživanje, transparentnost i odgovornost (CRTA) | |
| Mašina | masina.rs | news site | 2014– | independent, left-wing | Mašina is a web portal that focuses on social and labour rights, urban development, and left-wing political theory. It provides a unique perspective in the Serbian media landscape by reporting on strikes, workers' conditions, and ecological issues from the standpoint of social justice. Its reporting is deeply analytical and often highlights stories of grassroots resistance. Despite its clear ideological leaning, Mašina is reliable because it is fact-based and provides original reporting on topics that mainstream media often overlook. It is transparent about its values and operates as an independent media project funded by its community and non-profit grants. It offers high-quality journalism that is rigorous in its research and reporting of social realities. | Centar za primenjenu komunikaciju | |
| N1 | n1info.rs | television channel, news site | 2014– | independent, opposition-leaning | N1 was discussed at WP:RSP and is considered a reliable source. It is a regional 24-hour news channel and CNN's exclusive news affiliate in the Balkans.[2] It is widely regarded as the most significant independent television station in Serbia, known for its critical coverage of the government and its reporting on major scandals and protests. Its journalists often face hostile rhetoric from state officials due to their persistent questioning. The government often brands them as terrorists who want to undermine Serbia. N1 provides space for dissenting voices and adheres to professional news standards, including live reporting and on-the-ground verification. Although the government often labels it as an 'opposition' medium, its primary role is that of a watchdog. Its ownership by United Group allows it to maintain an editorial policy independent of state subsidies and government influence. | United Group | |
| Nedeljnik | nedeljnik.rs | magazine, news site | 2011– | independent | Nedeljnik is one of Serbia's most popular news weeklies, offering a mix of political analysis, cultural features, and high-profile interviews. It is known for its sophisticated design and for hosting columns from a wide range of public intellectuals. It often publishes long-form journalism that explores the underlying social trends in Serbia and the region. It manages to balance critical reporting with a high level of professional polish and factual depth. Nedeljnik maintains an independent editorial stance, frequently challenging both the government and the opposition. Its reputation for quality has made it a respected outlet for serious political and social discourse in the country. | Nedeljnik (Veljko Lalić) | |
| NIN | nin.co.rs | magazine, news site | 1951– | independent | NIN (Nedeljne informativne novine) is Serbia's oldest weekly magazine with a long history of high-level political journalism. For decades, it has been a symbol of professional integrity, known for its deep investigative pieces and its prestigious annual literary award. It has historically served as a critical observer of every government in power. Despite a recent change in ownership that led to the departure of a significant portion of its staff (see Radar entry), NIN maintains a professional editorial standard in its current form. It focuses on economic and political analysis that is grounded in facts. Its long-standing reputation for credibility ensures it remains a key player in the Serbian media landscape. Bought by Politika in May 2026. | Politika novine i magazini d.o.o. | |
| Nova (formerly known as Nova S) |
nova.rs | newspaper, television channel, news site | 2017– | independent, opposition-leaning | Nova is a multi-platform media outlet that operates as a sister brand to N1 under the United Group umbrella. It provides a more popular and diverse range of content compared to N1, including entertainment and sports, but its news division is strictly critical and investigative. It often covers stories that are ignored by pro-government tabloids. It follows professional standards for reporting and provides a necessary counterbalance to the state-aligned media narrative. While the government considers it a hostile outlet, Nova provides verified information on government corruption and social issues. Its editorial independence is scured by its corporate structure, which is outside the reach of state control. | United Group | |
| Radar | radar.nova.rs | newspaper, news site | 2024– | independent | Radar is a recently established news magazine founded by the former editorial team of NIN who left after a change in that magazine's ownership. It was created with the specific goal of preserving the tradition of independent, critical, and investigative weekly journalism in Serbia. It features the same high standards of analysis and writing that its staff was known for at their previous outlet. As a new entity born out of a commitment to journalistic integrity, Radar is highly reliable. It focuses on uncovering corruption and analysing the socio-political state of Serbia without government interference. Its staff consists of seasoned professionals who have a proven track record of maintaining independence even under significant political pressure. | United Group | |
| Radio Free Europe (Radio Slobodna Evropa) |
slobodnaevropa.org | news site | 1949– | independent, neutral | Radio Slobodna Evropa is a US-funded media organisation that provides news and analysis across the Balkans. It focuses heavily on human rights, the progress of democracy, and the influence of foreign powers like Russia and China in the region. Its reporting is deeply researched and often focuses on stories that domestic media either ignore or suppress. It has high editorial standards and commitment to providing a voice for civil society and marginalised groups. While it reflects Western democratic values, it maintains a factual and professional approach to news gathering. Its independence from the Serbian government is absolute, allowing it to report freely on issues that are sensitive to the local political elite. | Federal government of the United States | |
| Voice of America (Glas Amerike) |
glasamerike.net | news site | 1942–2025 | independent, neutral | Voice of America was discussed at WP:RSP and is considered a reliable source. Glas Amerike was the US international broadcaster providing news in the Serbian language. It covered international relations, U.S. foreign policy, and Serbian domestic politics with a focus on liberal democratic values and institutional transparency. Its reporters in Washington and Belgrade provide a bridge between American and Serbian political perspectives. It followed strict journalistic guidelines mandated by U.S. law to be accurate, objective, and comprehensive. While it was a state-funded organisation, its charter protects its editorial independence. It was an important source for balanced views on Serbia's international standing and its path toward Western integration, free from local partisan spin. | Federal government of the United States | |
| Vreme | vreme.com | magazine, news site | 1990– | independent | Vreme is an independent weekly magazine founded by journalists who wanted to provide an alternative to the state propaganda of the Milošević era. It has maintained its reputation for being one of the most professional and insightful magazines in the Balkans, focusing on political analysis, culture, and social commentary with a high level of literacy. Vreme is reliable because of its commitment to factual accuracy and its history of editorial independence. It features writing from some of the most respected journalists in the country and avoids sensationalism. The magazine's ability to survive as a small, independent outlet for decades is a testament to its credibility and the loyalty of its readership. | Vreme (Stevan Ristić) |
Situational/additional considerations apply
[edit]| Name | Media | Type | Dates | Editorial stance | Description | Avoid | Owner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| B92 (also briefly known as O2.TV) |
b92.net | television channel, radio, news site | 1989– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party (since the mid-to-late 2010s) formerly independent, opposition-leaning |
B92 was once the symbol of independent journalism and resistance against the Milošević regime in the 1990s. Since then, it has undergone several ownership changes and a complete shift in its editorial policy. Today, it operates as a commercial broadcaster and portal that is largely aligned with the ruling party's interests. Regarding politics, it often publishes propaganda and misinformation. B92 is situational because it still maintains a professional look and provides basic factual news. However, the critical spirit that once defined it is gone. It rarely publishes content that would be inconvenient for the government, making it a reliable source for sports or technology, but a biased one for domestic politics. It should be considered reliable before the Kopernikus purchase. | Serbian politics (after Kopernikus purchase) | Kopernikus (Telekom Srbija) |
| Blic | blic.rs | newspaper, television channel, news site | 1996– | neutral | Blic is one of the most-read daily newspapers and portals in Serbia, owned by the Swiss company Ringier. It combines tabloid elements with serious political reporting and has a massive reach. In the past, it was known for its critical stance, but in recent years, it has adopted a more cautious tone on sensitive political issues. While it still employs professional journalists and provides accurate reporting on crime, entertainment, and general news, its political coverage avoids direct confrontation with high-level officials. It is a 'safe' mainstream source that provides a lot of information but with a filtered political edge. Cooperates with BBC News Serbia. | Ringier | |
| Direktno | direktno.rs | news site | 2018– | anti-Serbian Progressive Party, pro-opposition | Direktno.rs is an online portal that is openly critical of the current government. It focuses almost exclusively on exposing government failures, scandals, and the activities of opposition parties. It provides a platform for voices that are banned from pro-government media, making it a counterweight to the state-dominated media scene. The portal is situational because its intense opposition bias often leads to sensationalised reporting and a lack of balance. While it reports on real scandals, its framing is often purely partisan. It is a useful source for seeing 'the other side' of the story, but readers must account for its clear political agenda. | Serbian politics | Irena Đorđević |
| Dnevnik | dnevnik.rs | newspaper, news site | 1942– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party | Dnevnik is the only daily newspaper in the Serbian language in Vojvodina, based in Novi Sad. It has a long tradition of reporting on provincial affairs, agriculture, and local culture. It is an important source for residents of Vojvodina who want detailed local information. The newspaper is situational because its editorial policy is closely aligned with the provincial and national governments. Its reporting on political issues in Vojvodina is rarely critical, and it often functions as a bulletin for the activities of local officials. It remains a reliable source for local community news and agricultural reports. | Serbian politics | Dnevnik Vojvodina Press |
| Mondo | mondo.rs | news site | 200– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party | Mondo is a popular lifestyle and news portal that is owned by Telekom Srbija. It focuses on younger audience, offering news on technology, sports, and entertainment alongside daily political updates. Its layout is modern and user-friendly, contributing to its high traffic. Mondo's political content is carefully curated to avoid offending the SNS, often reflecting the official state line. While it is a reliable and fast source for sports scores or tech reviews, it lacks editorial independence in its politicsl section. Its ties to state-linked capital influence its choice of headlines and topics. | politics | Telekom Srbija |
| Politika | politika.rs | newspaper, news site | 1904– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party, nationalist, conservative | Politika is the oldest daily newspaper in the Balkans, known for its conservative style, high-quality language, and authoritative reporting on international affairs. It is considered a national institution and traditionally reflects the views of the state. Its op-ed pages feature some of the most prominent conservative intellectuals in the country. Because it is partially state-owned and historically tied to the government, Politika rarely challenges the ruling elite. Its reliability is situational; it is an excellent source for culture and foreign news, but its domestic political coverage is often one-sided and serves to legitimise government policies. In recent years, it started to openly promote disinformation and fearmongering, often distorting opposition events. | politics | Politika a.d. (Government of Serbia) |
| Prva Srpska Televizija (formerly known as Fox televizija) |
prva.rs | television channel, news site | 2006– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party | Prva is a major commercial television station in Serbia that focuses heavily on entertainment, Turkish and domestic drama series, and reality shows. Its news programme is professionally produced with high-tech studios and well-known presenters. It has a broad reach and competes directly with Pink and RTS. Prva is categorised as situational because its editorial policy became significantly more pro-SNS following the Kopernikus takeover in December 2018. While it is not as aggressive as Pink, it avoids critical reporting and gives a disproportionate amount of positive coverage to government officials. It is reliable for entertainment but biased in its political reporting. | politics | Kopernikus (Telekom Srbija) |
| Radio Television of Serbia (Radio-televizija Srbije) |
rts.rs | television channel, news site | 1924– | public service | Radio-televizija Srbije (RTS) is the national public service broadcaster of Serbia, mandated to inform the citizens objectively and provide a wide range of cultural and educational content. It has high production standards and employs many of the country's top journalists. For many citizens, especially in rural areas, it remains the primary source of information. Its reliability is situational because its news programmes, particularly the main 'Dnevnik', are notoriously biased in favour of the government. It often omits major corruption scandals or covers them only after significant public pressure. While it is reliable for documentaries, culture, and weather, its political coverage lacks the critical distance required of a true public service. Nevertheless, it is present in both good and featured articles on Wikipedia. | controversial historical topics | Government of Serbia |
| Radio Television of Vojvodina (Radio-televizija Vojvodine) |
rtv.rs | television channel, news site | 1949– | public service | Radio-televizija Vojvodine (RTV) is the public broadcaster for the province of Vojvodina, producing content in Serbian and several minority languages. It serves a crucial role in maintaining the multi-ethnic character of the region and provides high-quality cultural programming. Its history includes periods of significant editorial independence, particularly before 2016. Following management changes several years ago, RTV's news department became increasingly aligned with the ruling party's narrative. While it is a reliable source for regional information and minority rights issues, its political reporting on provincial and national matters is often sanitised to avoid criticising the government, making its overall reliability situational. | Government of Serbia | |
| Tanjug Tačno | tanjug.rs | news agency, television channel, news site | 2020– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party | Tanjug was historically the national news agency of Yugoslavia and later Serbia. After several failed attempts at privatisation, its brand and assests were leased to a privat company (Tačno) linked to a prominent pro-government pop star, Željko Joksimović. It remains the most widely used news service by the state and many domestic media outlets, both reliable and unreliable ones, providing a vast amount of daily information. While its factual reporting on non-controversial topics (like international events or sports) is professional, its political reporting is heavily skewed in favour of the SNS. It often acts as a megaphone for government statements and minimises or ignores opposition activities. Its reliability depends entirely on the subject matter being reported. | RTV Pančevo, Minacord (Željko Joksimović) | |
| Telegraf | telegraf.rs | news site | 2012– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party | Telegraf is a highly successful commercial portal known for its fast-paced delivery of news, viral content, and tabloid-style headlines. It covers everything from global trends to local celebrity gossip. It has a modern digital approach and high traffic, making it a major player in the Serbian digital market. It is situational because while it is reliable for light news, technology, and sports, its political reporting is often sensationalised or tailored to support the government's narrative. It avoids investigative reporting on government corruption and frequently uses clickbait tactics. | politics | Internet Group, d.o.o. |
Generally unreliable sources
[edit]| Name | Media | Type | Dates | Editorial stance | Description | Avoid | Owner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24 sedam | 24sedam.rs | news site | 2021– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party, yellow journalism | 24 sedam is a relatively new portal that has quickly become known for its aggressive pro-government stance and its attacks on critics of the regime. It employs many former journalists from other tabloid outlets and focuses on producing a high volume of content that supports the official narrative while discrediting the opposition. It is unreliable because it frequently publishes unverified information and uses a sensationalistic, biased tone. The portal lacks editorial distance from political power and often engages in smear campaigns. Its primary function appears to be political propaganda rather than objective journalism, making its content highly untrustworthy. | at all costs | Digital Media Network (Margareta Stanić) |
| Alo! | alo.rs | newspaper, news portal | 2007– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party, yellow journalism | Alo! is a quintessential Serbian tabloid, known for its small format, cheap price, and sensationalistic content. It focuses on scandals, celebrity gossip, and highly emotional political headlines. It is a major supporter of the SNS and frequently targets opposition figures with derogatory language. The outlet consistently disregards journalistic ethics and the truth. It has a high number of complaints filed against it with the Press Council for spreading misinformation and violating the privacy of individuals. Its political coverage is designed to incite emotion rather than inform, serving as a tool for government spin. | at all costs | Saša Blagojević |
| Espreso | espreso.co.rs | news site | 2015– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party | Espreso is a digital portal that belongs to the same group as Kurir. It focuses on a mix of viral content, social media trends, and tabloid news. It is designed for quick consumption on mobile devices and relies heavily on provocative headlines to drive traffic. As part of the wider pro-government tabloid network, it is unreliable for any serious information. It frequently copies content from other sources without verification and participates in the broader ecosystem of government-friendly media spin. Its focus is on clicks and entertainment rather than credible news gathering. | at all costs | Adria Media Group (Igor Žeželj) |
| Glas javnosti | glas-javnosti.rs | newspaper, news site | 1998– | ultranationalism, conspiracy theorism | Glas javnosti was a significant daily newspaper in the past, but in its current digital incarnation, it has shifted toward sensationalism and alternative narratives. It often covers topics related to mysticism, conspiracy theories, and extreme nationalist views that are outside the mainstream of professional journalism. It is unreliable because it lacks editorial rigour and frequently publishes fringe theories as fact. While it occasionally features legitimate interviews, the surrounding content is often of poor quality and lacks proper citation or evidence. It has moved away from credible news reporting toward a more populist and untrustworthy format. | at all costs | Radislav Rodić |
| Happy TV | happytv.rs | television channel, news site | 1994– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party, conspiracy theorism | Happy TV is a national broadcaster that gained notoriety for its 24/7 reality shows and its morning programme which serves as a platform for various conspiracy theorists, war criminals, and pro-government commentators. It blends entertainment with extreme political propaganda, often featuring the country's top leaders for hours-long unedited monologues. It is categorised as unreliable because it consistently promotes misinformation, historical revisionism, and hate speech. The channel shows zero commitment to journalistic standards, and its news reporting is entirely subservient to the interests of the ruling party. It is a source of confusion rather than information, prioritising political indoctrination over the public interest. | at all costs | Predrag Ranković |
| Informer | informer.rs | newspaper, television channel, news site | 2012– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party, nationalistic, conspiracy theorism, yellow journalism | Informer is the most notorious tabloid in Serbia, known for its aggressive and often vulgar support of the president and the ruling party. It frequently publishes front-page stories claiming imminent wars, coups, or assassinations, almost all of which prove to be entirely fabricated. Its editor-in-chief is a frequent guest on state-aligned TV shows where he echoes government talking points. It is the prime example of an unreliable source, characterised by hate speech, the targeting of independent journalists and civil society, and the dissemination of pure propaganda. It has been condemned numerous times by professional organisations and the Press Council for violating every rule of the journalistic code. No information from Informer can be taken as credible without independent verification. | at all costs | Insajder tim (Dragan J. Vučićević |
| Kurir | kurir.rs | newspaper, television channel, news site | 2003– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party, yellow journalism | Kurir is a major tabloid with a newspaper, portal, and TV channel. Over the years, its editorial policy has shifted wildly depending on the interests of its ownership and their relationship with the government. Currently, it is firmly in the pro-government camp, providing favourable coverage of the state while attacking its opponents. It is unreliable because it prioritises sensationalism and political service over factual reporting. While it has a large production capacity, its history of editorial volatility and its frequent use of clickbait and unverified claims make it a poor source for news. It often engages in personal attacks and manufactures scandals to serve a specific political agenda. | at all costs | Adria Media Group (Igor Žeželj) |
| Objektiv | objektiv.rs | newspaper, news site | at least since 2020– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party | Objektiv is a pro-government tabloid portal and newspaper that follows the standard formula of praising the president and attacking his rivals. It is often among the first to publish 'leaked' information intended to discredit opposition politicians or independent journalists, suggesting close ties to the state security apparatus or ruling party offices. Like its counterparts in the tabloid industry, it is highly unreliable. It shows no regard for the truth or ethical boundaries, often publishing personal smears and unsubstantiated claims. Its purpose is purely political, serving as a weapon in the information warfare directed against critics of the government. | at all costs | Aleksandar Papić |
| Pečat | pecat.co.rs | magazine, news site | 2008– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party, far-right, nationalist | Pečat is a weekly magazine that focuses on politics, society, and culture from a strongly far-right and nationalistic perspective. It often advocates for closer ties with Russia and is critical of Western influence in the Balkans. It features long-form articles and interview with right-wing intellectuals and politicians. While it is intellectually consistent and provides a platform for certain conservative views, its heavy bias and nationalist framing make it an unreliable source for objective news. | at all costs | Naš Pečat a.d. |
| Pink | pink.rs | television channel, news site | 1994– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party | TV Pink is the most influential private broadcaster in Serbia, owned by a media mogul close to the ruling party (Željko Mitrović). It is famous for its massive reality TV hits and its highly aggressive news division. Its news programmes are dedicated almost exclusively to praising the government and launching brutal smear campaigns against anyone who critiques it. Pink is the definition of an unreliable source for news. It uses video editing, out-of-context quotes, and staged interviews to manipulate public opinion. It has been the subject of countless complaints for violating broadcasting laws and ethical standards. Its news content functions as a direct extension of the government's PR office, with no editorial independence. | at all costs | Željko Mitrović |
| Sputnjik | sputnikportal.rs | news site | at least since 2010– | pro-Vladimir Putin | Sputnjik is the Serbian branch of the Russian state-owned news agency Sputnik. It is part of Russia's soft power strategy in the Balkans, providing news that consistently aligns with the Kremlin's foreign policy interests. It focuses heavily on promoting Russian-Serbian brotherhood and critiquing NATO and the European Union. It is unreliable as a news source because its primary function is state-sponsored propaganda. While its reporting on culture may be accurate, its political and geopolitical coverage is designed to influence public opinion in favour of Russia. It often uses selective facts or outright disinformation to advance its strategic narrative, making it a biased and untrustworthy source for objective news. | at all costs | Government of Russia |
| Srpski Telegraf / Republika | republika.rs | newspaper, news site | 2016– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party, nationalism, conspiracy theorism, yellow journalism | Srpski telegraf and its online portal Republika are aggressive tabloids that follow the same model as Informer. They specialise in sensationalistic headlines, 'exclusive' stories about the secret lives of public figures, and fierece defence of the government. They are known for using inflammatory language and creating a climate of fear and division. The reliability of these outlets is non-existent. They are frequently used to leak information (often falsified or taken out of context) against political rivals or critical journalists. Their content is characterised by a lack of evidence and a heavy reliance on anonymous 'sources' to push government propaganda and smear campaigns. | at all costs | Saša Milovanović |
| Srbija Danas | sd.rs | news site | 2014– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party, nationalism | Srbija Danas is a pro-government portal that provides a constant stream of news favouring the ruling party. It often republishes content from tabloids like Informer and Alo!, acting as an additional node in the network of state-aligned digital media. Its coverage of regional and international news is heavily filtered through a nationalist and pro-government lens. The portal is unreliable because of its blatant bias and its role in disseminating unverified or misleading information. It does not engage in investigative journalism or provide balanced perspectives. It serves primarily as a digital tool for amplifying government messaging and attacking political opponents. | at all costs | Aleksandra Martinović |
| Srbin Info | srbin info | news site | 2012– | far-right, anti-Serbian Progressive Party | Srbin Info is a digital portal and YouTube channel that is a primary hub for far-right and nationalist sentiment in Serbia. It is known for its livestreams of protests and its interviews with controversial figures from the right-wing fringe. It aggressively opposes EU integration and promotes a narrative of national victimhood. It is unreliable due to its heavy bias, its tendency to promote unverified information, and its role in spreading inflammatory rhetoric. While it covers some events that mainstream media ignore, it does so through a lens of extreme nationalism and conspiracy that distorts the facts. It is not a source for objective or balanced information. | at all costs | Dejan Petar Zlatanović |
| Vaseljenska | vaseljenska.net | news site | 2011– | far-right, conspiracy theorism, neo-fascism | Vaseljenska is an online portal known for its extreme nationalist, anti-Western, and pro-Russian views. It frequently publishes conspiracy theories regarding health, international politics, and secret societies. It caters to a far-right audience and promotes an isolationist and traditionalist agenda for Serbia. The outlet is completely unreliable for factual news. Its content is based on ideological convictions rather than empirical evidence. It often spreads disinformation and promotes hostility toward minority groups and international organisations. It is an extremist platform rather than a journalistic outlet. | at all costs | Vesna Veizović |
| Večernje novosti | novosti.rs | newspaper, television channel, news site | 1953– | pro-Serbian Progressive Party, far-right, nationalist, yellow journalism | Večernje novosti is a long-standing daily newspaper with a large readership. It is known for its populist style and ultranationalistic editorial policy, particularly regarding Kosovo and regional relations. It frequently promotes the idea of Serbian national interest and is closely aligned with the SNS. Its articles often publish disinformation, are sensationalistic, and discredit the political opposition. In 2024, it published at least 263 factually unfounded articles in its newspaper, while it has also published disinformation regarding the ongoing student-led anti-corruption protests. | case-by-case | Novosti a.d. |
Authors
[edit]| Name | Occupation | Status | Editorial stance | Description | Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bojan Dimitrijević | Historian | unreliable | nationalist, anti-Yugoslav Partisans | Dimitrijević has been criticised for his historial revisionism and genocide denial | at least regarding World War II |
| Kosta Nikolić | Historian | unreliable | anti-Yugoslav Partisans | According to critics, Nikolić promotes historical revisionism regarding quisling movements and Chetniks | at least regarding World War II |
| Marko Atlagić | Historian | unreliable | nationalist | Atlagić denies the Srebrenica genocide. Former member of the far-right Serbian Radical Party | at all costs |
Further reading
[edit]- Šest novina, više od 1.400 manipulacija: Kako su izgledale naslovnice 2024. godine by Raskrikavanje
- Rekordna godina laži: prorežimski listovi u 2025. objavili više od 1.800 manipulativnih vesti by Raskrikavanje
See more
[edit]- Media Landscapes: Serbia
- Fake News Tragač
- Media Ownership Monitor Srbija
- Raskrikavanje
- Mapping Media Freedom
- Cenzolovka