PRESS RELEASE | Skopje, February 17, 2026

CIVIL – Center for Freedom expresses serious concern over the decision of the Skopje Court of Appeals to uphold the verdict against journalist and editor Naser Selmani, who was convicted of defamation and insult for expressing an opinion in a public debate related to media independence and editorial pressure. The case was brought by TV Channel 5 and its CEO, Ivan Mirchevski.

The verdict is based on statements made by Selmani in which he argued that media in the country remain under the influence of political parties and the government, and that the director of the television station exerts pressure on journalists.

This decision is not an isolated case. It points to a worrying practice that is increasingly recurring, where critical thinking and public debate are subjected to judicial sanction. Instead of protecting freedom of expression, such decisions create an environment that encourages self-censorship and fear of public expression.

It is particularly concerning that the statements in question represent a personal opinion and value judgment expressed in the context of a public debate—forms of expression that, under European standards and the case law of the European Court of Human Rights, enjoy enhanced protection.

CIVIL warns that such proceedings bear the characteristics of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs)—mechanisms used to exert pressure, intimidate, and silence critical voices. Their effect is not only individual but creates a broader “chilling effect” on participation in public debate.

In 2024, the Council of Europe adopted Recommendation CM/Rec(2024)2, clearly calling on member states to ensure protection against such abuses and to guarantee a safe and enabling environment for freedom of expression. This verdict raises serious concerns regarding compliance with these standards.

The case also unfolds in a broader context of ongoing public debate over political influence in the media sector, including publicly expressed concerns about close ties between certain media actors and political parties, including the ruling VMRO-DPMNE.

The fact that the statements were made in the studio of CIVIL’s media platform further underscores the seriousness of the case and the need for a principled response.

CIVIL expresses full support for Naser Selmani and calls on journalists’ associations, civil society organizations, institutions, and the international community to closely monitor this and similar cases, to respond appropriately, and to provide all possible support within the framework of their capacities, the law, and democratic standards.

In a democratic society, critical thinking must not be a cause for sanction. Any attempt to normalize such practices represents a step backward for democracy and the rule of law.

CIVIL will continue to closely monitor all cases indicating pressure on freedom of expression and will respond publicly, responsibly, and with principle.

Sanctioning opinion means restricting democracy.

CIVIL – Center for Freedom