17. Protecting Independent Media in Macedonia: Journalism as a Weapon Against Corruption

A Note to Our Readers

The Macedonian Citizens Alliance is an independent, non-partisan platform committed to giving citizens a real voice in ending corruption and shaping a just, transparent, and prosperous future for Macedonia. We are not in favour or against any political party. We will support any government or opposition initiative that challenges corruption and promotes integrity and progress, but we will also hold all parties, leaders, and institutions accountable - regardless of affiliation. Macedonia has had enough of division. If you believe that political leaders and public officials should serve the people with honesty and with citizens’ interests as a priority, then support us. Our role is to keep every party, every official, and every institution honest - so that together, we can rebuild trust and create a better country for all.

In every country where corruption reigns, journalism suffers first. Truth becomes dangerous. Questions become threats. And the journalists who dare to speak up are harassed, discredited, or worse—silenced. In Macedonia, independent journalism has long been under siege—from political pressure, smear campaigns, opaque media ownership, and financial manipulation.

But without a free press, there is no transparency. And without transparency, there is no justice.

If we are serious about fighting corruption, we must start by protecting those who uncover it: independent journalists.

Journalism Is Not the Enemy—It’s the Front Line

Corruption thrives in darkness. Journalists shine a light on it. From uncovering rigged tenders and fraudulent spending to exposing abuse of office and illegal lobbying, the press has always been the people’s first line of defense against abuse of power.

But in Macedonia, many media outlets are co-opted—owned by politically connected businesspeople, kept afloat with government advertising, or intimidated into silence. This has created an environment where propaganda replaces news, and the truth is drowned out by noise.

We must flip the script.

Legal Protection for Investigative Reporting

The first step is to enshrine press freedom and journalist protection in law, with:

• Criminal penalties for threats, intimidation, or violence against journalists

• Protections for journalistic sources, including whistleblowers

• Anti-SLAPP legislation to stop powerful actors from suing journalists into silence

• Clear procedures for investigating crimes against journalists swiftly and independently

No journalist should fear for their life, livelihood, or family because they dared to ask the right questions.

Financial Independence and Media Pluralism

We must also address the economic control that strangles media independence. When governments are the main source of advertising revenue, they hold media outlets by the throat. This practice must end.

Public funds for media must be:

• Allocated through independent, transparent mechanisms

• Distributed based on objective criteria (reach, professionalism, content standards)

• Open to audit and public scrutiny

At the same time, we must invest in public broadcasting that is truly independent, non-partisan, and committed to investigative journalism and public interest reporting.

Support for Local and Grassroots Media

Corruption doesn’t only happen in national capitals—it happens in towns, villages, and regional administrations. Yet local journalists often lack the resources and protection to investigate safely.

We must create grants, training programs, and legal support networks to empower local journalists and citizen reporters to do their work without fear or financial dependency.

Changing the Narrative

Finally, we must change how we talk about journalism in Macedonia. Politicians must stop demonizing the media when coverage is critical. Public figures must respect the role of journalists—not try to destroy them.

A strong democracy requires strong journalism. We must teach this truth in schools, promote media literacy among citizens, and elevate journalism as a public good, not a political enemy.

The Watchdogs of Democracy

Independent journalists are not just storytellers—they are watchdogs. Guardians of the truth. When they are silenced, the people lose their eyes and ears. When they are protected, the system becomes more honest.

Let’s build a Macedonia where journalists are respected. Where truth is louder than propaganda. And where no one fears the truth being told.

Dr. Elena Spasovska

Co-Founder & President, Macedonian Citizens Alliance

Dr. Elena Spasovska is expert in peacebuilding, equality, and democratic governance. Macedonian-born and raised, she holds a Bachelor's degree from Ss. Cyril and Methodius University, a Master’s degree from the University of Barcelona, and a PhD in International Relations from the University of South Australia. Elena has lectured and contributed to research initiatives at leading Australian universities. Her academic portfolio spans global politics, development, international security, social justice, human trafficking, and post-conflict governance. She brings a rare combination of academic depth and public advocacy, with a clear mission: to confront corruption and restore hope, dignity, and opportunity for all Macedonians.

Macedonian Citizens Alliance

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