Giving a Voice Back to the Community: Citizens of Zaječar Once Again Have a Place to Stay Informed

When Đorđe, a student at the Secondary School of Economics in Zaječar, wanted to research how environmental policies are implemented in his city, he realized there was virtually no place to find objective and locally relevant information. National media rarely cover local issues, and Zaječar has been without its own TV or radio station for nearly a decade. However, through the House of Free Media, Đorđe had the opportunity to learn, research, and contribute to informing his community.

Zaječarska Inicijativa recognized this issue and took action. In collaboration with the Glas Zaječara portal, the House of Free Media was established - a space where local journalists, activists, and all interested citizens can freely investigate, write, and speak on topics important to their city. Today, the editorial teams of Glas Zaječara and the local office of the Danas daily work here, along with young journalists gaining experience through the School of Journalism. The program, which has trained about ten participants, proved that young people are eager to engage in journalism when given the opportunity.

Additionally, the Youth Center Zaječar organized over 100 public debates and podcasts, especially during the pandemic when access to information was limited. The most viewed episodes focused on environmental protection, natural resources of Eastern Serbia, and local policies - crucial everyday issues rarely addressed by national media. Events on mining, small hydropower plants, political corruption, and cultural heritage protection attracted large audiences, clearly demonstrating the need for quality, independent reporting.

Thanks to these initiatives, Zaječar citizens - despite the absence of local electronic media - now have access to timely, objective, and independent information. In a time when reliable information is essential, Zaječarska Inicijativa has not only supported local journalists, but also helped the community rediscover its voice.