The European Movement in Serbia (EMinS) received with disbelief the news that “24 Minutes with Zoran Kesić”, the iconic programme hosted by Zoran Kesić, this year’s recipient of the EMinS’ “Contribution of the Year to Europe” Award, will no longer be broadcasted on TV Nova S.
Without seeking to interfere with business or editorial decisions of the new owners, EMinS wishes to point out that their claim that the programme is too expensive is anything but a convincing argument when it concerns one of the most-watched shows in the prime Saturday evening slot. Indeed, according to expert assessments, a single broadcast of “24 Minutes with Zoran Kesić” generates between 30 and 40 minutes of advertising.
Since 2013, Zoran Kesić has demonstrated that serious social and political issues can be addressed without hatred; that criticism can be sharp without losing its humanity; and that the public voice can remain free even when the person speaking out is subjected to pressure, labelling and attempts at discreditation.
When receiving EMinS’ award, Kesić stressed that his programme, in its own distinctive way, promotes and supports European values such as the defence of human rights, functioning democratic institutions, the rule of law and justice, media freedom and all other fundamental freedoms, minority rights, respect for diversity, and the restoration and improvement of relations with Serbia’s European neighbours, irrespective of whether or not they are members of the European Union.
By all indications, the decision to remove “24 Minutes with Zoran Kesić” from the programme of TV Nova S was not motivated by economic considerations, but forms part of a broader effort by the new management of the ANN Media Group to “discipline” the television station and reduce its influence on the Serbian electorate ahead of the forthcoming elections.
