Top executives from N1, the regional news network spanning Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Croatia, and Slovenia, have announced a proposal for a management buyout from United Group. This move aims to secure the network's editorial independence amidst growing concerns about ownership and potential political influence.
In a unified statement released on the channel's 11th anniversary, the programme directors expressed their intention to acquire N1 from United Group "on market principles." The proposal includes securing backing from "credible external investors," highlighting that the primary objective is not financial gain, but rather the "institutional and editorial protection" of the news channels, adhering to the highest European standards.
The proposed plan would see N1’s editorial team assume governance responsibilities, thereby preventing future "external political or business takeovers." This initiative surfaces amid significant changes within United Group, following the departure of founder Dragan Šolak and CEO Victoriya Boklag in June. These changes have sparked legal challenges and concerns from journalists and press freedom advocates regarding potential pressure on key news brands like N1 and Nova.
Adding to these concerns, leaked materials, including a recording published by OCCRP detailing discussions between United Group's new leadership and Telekom Srbija concerning alterations at United Media, have heightened fears of behind-the-scenes influence. United Group has publicly refuted allegations of plans to sell or weaken its news outlets, reaffirming that editorial independence remains "non-negotiable."
By suggesting a management buyout encompassing all four N1 operations, the directors are essentially testing whether United Group and its majority owner, BC Partners, are willing to translate these assurances into a tangible, structural safeguard.