N1 celebrates 11 years of independent journalism in its most challenging year to date

Over the past year, each N1 newsroom has faced distinct tests that reflect the broader pressures confronting independent journalism. In Serbia, the year was marked by protests, threats, and direct attacks on journalists. In Croatia, N1 underwent major organisational restructuring while reaffirming its leading position. And in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the network continued to operate in an atmosphere of instability, social division, and political tension.

All of this unfolded against a global backdrop in which media organizations everywhere are striving to adapt to fast-changing digital trends while preserving credibility and public trust.

Despite challenges, N1 has maintained exceptional viewership and remains the first choice for audiences across the region, a testament to the trust and loyalty it has earned through a decade of professional, independent reporting.

Aleksandra Subotic, CEO of United Media, the company that owns N1, emphasised the group’s enduring commitment to protecting editorial independence across the region.

“For 11 years, United Media’s mission has been to stand behind and safeguard the editorial independence of N1. We are proud that N1 has become a brand trusted by millions of citizens across Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Croatia, because they know that behind this name stand some of the most professional and dedicated journalism teams in the region. N1 is also recognised and supported by leading international journalist associations such as Reporters Without Borders (RSF), the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ), and others who share our commitment to free and independent media. The importance of independent media in the Balkans cannot be overstated, and we remain committed to supporting this mission in the years ahead.”

Peter Horricks, N1 Editorial Board advisor, stated: “N1 continues to lead the way in bringing the highest global standards of journalism, production and innovation to its markets. Every N1 journalist is dedicated to serving the interests of their audience, without fear or favour from any interest - commercial or political. N1 is a beacon for the Balkans.”

Igor Bozic, News Director of N1 Serbia, said the past year reaffirmed why N1 exists and why it matters.

“We have faced unprecedented political and institutional pressure, from being targeted by pro-government media and officials to having our signal removed from cable platforms. Despite all of that, public trust in N1 has never been stronger. Our journalists were on the ground when others were not, covering protests, exposing corruption, and giving a voice to those silenced by the system.

The strength of a media outlet does not depend on the mercy of those in power, but on the trust of its audience, and that trust has never been higher,” Bozic said.

He added that Reporters Without Borders (RSF) nominated N1 Serbia newsroom for the Courage in Journalism Award, and that the European Parliament explicitly recognised N1’s importance as an independent and professional media outlet in Serbia.

Amir Zukic, News Director of N1 Bosnia and Herzegovina, reflected on the network’s role in a society facing deep uncertainty and division.

“While circumstances and context evolve, the most important thing has not changed: the trust of the Bosnian and Herzegovinian public in N1, our influence in society, the results that keep us among the most-watched networks, and our deep sense of responsibility to our audience.

We are fully aware of the challenges ahead, to preserve professional standards while growing and evolving in line with the needs of the digital era, and we are determined to persevere. Because N1 is not just a media outlet; it is a community of people who believe in truth, facts, dialogue, and freedom.

In an age of oversimplified public discourse, growing intolerance, shallow content, and disinformation, we believe it is more important than ever to preserve N1 as a space of credibility, verified information, and professional responsibility,” Zukic said.

Tihomir Ladisic, News Director of N1 Croatia, highlighted the network’s success in maintaining editorial excellence while adapting to new realities.

“Despite numerous challenges, N1 remains Croatia’s leading specialised news channel. We have successfully restructured our operations, created opportunities for young and ambitious journalists, and welcomed back one of our leading reporters, Hrvoje Kresic, who is preparing a new original program. In a world that changes every day, N1 continues to be a home for free, brave, and relevant journalism. Our viewers and readers remain our highest priority,” Ladisic said.

Launched on October 30, 2014, N1 is the first regional 24-hour news platform and the first CNN affiliate in this part of Europe.

Operating through integrated newsrooms in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Croatia, as well as a growing digital operation in Slovenia, N1 has built a reputation for fact-based, independent reporting and has become one of the most trusted and influential news brands in the region.