The discussions surrounding the proposed Foreign Agents Laws (FAL) in Montenegro and Serbia highlight how media shapes public debate and societal perceptions. These legislative proposals, aimed at regulating organizations funded by foreign entities, particularly NGOs, have sparked diverse narratives in both countries. The media’s role has been pivotal, not just in reporting but in influencing how the public and policymakers understand and engage with these legislative efforts.
Media as a Shaper of Public Discourse
In Montenegro, the media initially gave limited attention to the FAL, focusing on broad discussions around transparency and governance. However, once the proposal was introduced, the coverage expanded and became increasingly polarized. The law was framed either as a necessary step to protect national sovereignty or as a potential threat to civil society and democratic freedoms. This shift demonstrates how media prioritizes issues as public interest grows (McCombs & Shaw, 1972).
Serbia’s media engaged with the FAL earlier and more extensively, often framing the proposal within a global context. Discussions frequently referred to international practices and geopolitics, presenting the law as part of a broader struggle over sovereignty and influence. This framing shows the media’s ability to link local legislative initiatives to larger global narratives, influencing how audiences perceive the law’s significance (Entman, 1993).

Figure: Articles/posts with total engagement analyzed in the period 1.1-31.12.2024 in Montenegro and Serbia
Cross-Border Debates between Montenegro and Serbia
The media in Montenegro and Serbia also demonstrated how legislative discussions transcend national borders. Montenegrin outlets analyzed Serbian legislative debates to draw comparisons and anticipate potential outcomes, while Serbian media referred to Montenegro’s discussions to contextualize their own narratives. This interplay reflects the interconnected nature of regional discourse, where developments in one country influence public opinion in another (Hallin & Mancini, 2004).
How Media Framing Shapes Public Perceptions of the FAL in Montenegro and Serbia
The way media frames issues like FAL has a profound impact on public perceptions. In Montenegro, the focus was on the potential societal impact, with narratives emphasizing concerns about civil liberties and the role of NGOs. In Serbia, the media often tied the FAL to questions of sovereignty and external interference, highlighting its geopolitical dimensions (Diamond, 1999).
This framing influences not only how audiences engage with the topic but also the broader conversation about governance and democracy. By emphasizing specific aspects of the proposals, media outlets shape the terms of the debate and amplify key themes, ensuring that these discussions resonate with the public.
The Role of Media in Shaping Governance and Democracy
The media’s coverage of the FAL in Montenegro and Serbia demonstrates its crucial role in fostering informed public debate. By framing these legislative proposals within broader themes of governance, sovereignty, and democracy, the media shapes how societies understand and navigate complex issues. The interconnected narratives between the two countries further highlight the media’s ability to bridge national discussions, contributing to regional dialogue and shared perspectives.
As the region continues to address challenges related to governance, civil society, and external influence, the media will remain a central player in shaping public discourse. The debates in Montenegro and Serbia offer valuable lessons on how media influences not only national conversations but also regional understandings, underscoring its importance in fostering dialogue and democratic engagement.
References:
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McCombs, M., & Shaw, D. (1972). The Agenda-Setting Function of the Press. Public Opinion Quarterly, 36(2), 176-187.
Entman, R. M. (1993). Framing: Toward Clarification of a Fractured Paradigm. Journal of Communication, 43(4), 51-58.
Hallin, D. C., & Mancini, P. (2004). Comparing Media Systems: Three Models of Media and Politics. Cambridge University Press.
Diamond, L. (1999). Developing Democracy: Toward Consolidation. Johns Hopkins University Press.
Written by
Natasha Dimova
January 24, 2025