Since Serbia’s ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) takes power in 2012, it has tightened its control over the country’s media landscape, according to reporting cited by Deutsche Welle. The article describes how government influence has grown over time, reducing room for independent journalism. It notes that the current political context—an election expected soon—adds urgency for media freedom observers. Experts quoted in the piece say they fear authorities may move to further restrict the remaining outlets or segments that still operate independently. While the coverage focuses on the trend toward increased state influence since 2012, it frames the election period as a potential flashpoint for any additional consolidation of control. The article therefore centers on concerns about the shrinking space for independent reporting and the risk of further pressure on media during the lead-up to the vote. The reporting presents these issues as an ongoing process rather than a single event tied to the election, with the electoral timeline raising concerns about whether last independent pockets will be eliminated.