Television: The pillar of democracy and truth – United Media joins the global celebration

United Media, the leading media company in Southeast Europe with a diverse portfolio of 120 media outlets, including over 60 television channels, joins broadcasters worldwide in celebrating World Television Day on November 21^st .

Established by the United Nations, this annual event underscores television’s essential role as a medium for information, communication, and entertainment. This year marks the 28^th  edition of World TV Day, focusing on multiplatform TV as a cornerstone of democracy, particularly in combating misinformation and ensuring media plurality. 

“With disinformation and divisive narratives dominating a fragmented media environment, television serves as a critical bulwark of democracy. United Media, with its extensive portfolio in Bulgaria, Croatia, Slovenia, Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina and North Macedonia embodies this role by upholding press freedom, delivering accurate reporting, and challenging propaganda with impartial journalism,” stated Aleksandra Subotić, CEO of United Media.

She highlighted UM’s relentless commitment to truth and integrity, even in regions like Serbia, where media freedoms face systematic threats. “Our platforms, including flagship channels like N1 and NOVA, ensure that critical stories reach the public despite relentless smear campaigns, regulatory obstructions, and state-sponsored disinformation. For instance, during the mass protests following Serbia’s tragic shootings in 2023, N1 provided uninterrupted, round-the-clock coverage, countering narratives from government-aligned media that sought to downplay the events.”

The prestigious Reuters Institute report has validated UM’s independent journalism for years, identifying our channels, Nova TV in Croatia and Nova Broadcasting Group in Bulgaria, as the most trusted sources of information in those countries. Further confirmation of our values lies in the numerous awards received by our journalists and media outlets, recognizing their dedication to excellence and their vital role in promoting truth and accountability.

Additionally, United Media’s wide-ranging portfolio—spanning television, digital platforms, and print—supports its collaboration with global leaders such as CNN, Deutsche Welle, and Forbes. These partnerships enable UM to integrate international best practices into local markets, enhancing media quality and innovation across the region while respecting its cultural diversity.

“Television’s role in fostering informed societies cannot be overstated. Today, we celebrate its power to educate, connect, and drive progress. At United Media, we remain steadfast in our belief that a well-informed public is the foundation of a thriving democracy. Together, let us continue to champion television as a force for positive change”, Subotić concluded, extending her congratulations to everyone on the occasion of World Television Day.

Each year, egta (the international trade body of multiplatform TV and audio businesses) and ACT (the Association of Commercial Television and VOD Services in Europe), with support from the GTVG (Global TV Group), join forces to produce a 30-second video spot for World TV Day, which will be aired across European TV channels and shared on digital platforms and social media.