By Twenty-two years after the murder of Duško Jovanović, editor-in-chief of the daily newspaper “Dan”, Montenegro has still failed to demonstrate a genuine commitment to fully solving the most serious crime in the history of Montenegrin journalism. Twenty-two years of waiting, repeated declarations, grand promises and alleged progress have not delivered what matters most – truth and accountability.
The Trade Union of Media of Montenegro (TUMM) therefore stresses that it is no longer enough to keep repeating that the case will be solved. We have been hearing that promise for years. What we do not see are concrete results that would demonstrate a real willingness to identify those who ordered, organised and carried out the crime, as well as those who enabled the truth to remain hidden for so long.
The murder of Duško Jovanović remains a lasting reminder that Montenegro still lacks a strong deterrent against attacks on journalists. Had there been a clear and consistent policy of accountability, we would likely not be witnessing the continued threats, pressure and attacks faced by media workers today.
For those who have spent decades working in journalism, this case long ago became more than a single criminal investigation. An unsolved murder of a journalist leaves a profound sense that the system was unwilling or unable to protect either the right to life or the public’s right to know the truth. That is why solving the case of Duško Jovanović matters—not merely to formally close an investigation, but to send a message that the state is prepared to stand behind media freedom and the safety of journalists.
The Trade Union of Media of Montenegro will continue to insist on the full resolution of Duško Jovanović’s murder and on accountability for all those who participated in the crime or spent years obstructing efforts to uncover the full truth.
