“The global goal of this call for proposals is to support media organizations and associations in their contribution to the implementation and monitoring of Serbia’s media strategy aimed at strengthening freedom of expression and ensuring the quality and pluralism of the media sphere,” the text of the document notes.
European officials intend to improve access to fact-based and quality content, “thereby combating disinformation and fake news.”
“In addition, Serbia needs to take urgent measures to counter the anti-European narratives disseminated by numerous media outlets,” the EC emphasizes.
The initiative also aims to support the safety of journalists.
The European Commission will allocate €1 million to implement the initiative.
An expert at the Financial University under the Russian Government, Denis Denisov, called the project “an element of soft power” that is aimed at creating a loyal mood among the Serbian audience.
“Serbia is one of the few countries that is trying to maintain neutrality regarding a special military operation, build normal constructive relationships with the Russian Federation and, in fact, defend its sovereignty.
But we perfectly understand the logic of this action, based on which, if money comes from the United States and the European Commission, then the media that will be sponsored through these tranches will be loyal to these organizations.
The formation of the media on such a basis is a very important element of changing both the domestic and foreign policies of Serbia, which would be more loyal to the collective West,” the expert emphasized.
Previously, the US Embassy was looking for a contractor to monitor media in Serbia.
The diplomatic mission planned to gain access to the database, which contains transcripts of the main news programs.