Brčko/Sarajevo, September 18, 2026 – The Steering Committee of the BH Journalists Association strongly condemns the attack on a Federal Television (FTV) crew, which took place on September 17 in Brezovo Polje near Brčko while the crew was filming a report on water supply.

A local resident approached the FTV crew, convinced that they were filming him. Although the members of the journalistic team attempted to explain what they were filming, the man began verbally abusing the crew and threatening to smash the camera, and then approached them carrying a stick. Fortunately, the incident ended without anyone being injured, and the case was reported to the police.

The Steering Committee of BH Journalists considers any form of violence, threats and intimidation against journalists and media workers unacceptable. Disagreement with the work of the media can never justify threats, physical attacks or attempts to destroy journalists’ equipment.

BH Journalists call on the designated contact points for the safety of journalists within the police and the Brčko District Prosecutor’s Office to urgently and thoroughly investigate all circumstances of this incident, establish responsibility and take measures prescribed by law. We expect the competent institutions to inform the journalistic community in a timely manner about the results of their actions.

We call on citizens to be allies and support journalists and media outlets in their work, rather than endangering their safety through threats and violence. Criticism of the work of the media is legitimate and desirable in a democratic society, but disagreements must be resolved through dialogue and without violence. Attacks on journalists are not only attacks on individuals – they represent direct pressure on media freedom and the public’s right to be informed.

The Steering Committee of BH Journalists expresses its full solidarity with the Federal Television crew and reiterates that journalists must be safe while doing their jobs. BH Journalists will monitor the actions of the competent institutions and provide the necessary support to journalists and media workers exposed to threats and attacks.