It is with profound sadness that EED announces the passing of our partner and friend, Zoran Sekulić, founder, director and editor-in-chief of FoNet News Agency, who died on 21 July 2025. For over three decades, Zoran was a beacon of independent journalism in Serbia and a tireless advocate for media freedom.
Zoran was a committed, hard worker but also a visionary who fundamentally transformed Serbia's media landscape. In 1994, he established FoNet as the country's first private news agency with an independent editorial policy. His vision was to ensure that Serbian citizens had access to impartial, credible news reporting free from political influence.
Under Zoran's leadership, FoNet became internationally recognised for its professionalism and credibility. Zoran's commitment to media freedom earned him numerous international honours, including France's Legion of Honor, Germany's Order of Merit, and recognition as OSCE Person of the Year in 2012. He served on the boards of Serbia's Media Association and Press Council.
His role as a defender of independent journalism cannot be overstated. In times of political pressure and media censorship, Zoran remained, as Branislav Grubački, a renowned civil activist, described him, "truthful, unwavering and dignified". He never compromised when truth was at stake, establishing FoNet as a pillar of reliable reporting that citizens could trust.
Beyond his professional achievements, Zoran was known for his deep humanity and dedication to nurturing the next generation of journalists. Through FoNet, he created opportunities for hundreds of young professionals to develop their skills in an environment that valued accuracy, independence, and ethical reporting – training more than 700 journalists, photographers, and media professionals.
Zoran rose to every challenge with inner courage, professional excellence, and an unshakeable belief in the power of free media to serve democracy. His legacy will live on through the institution he built, the journalists he mentored, and the standards of excellence he established for Serbian journalism.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, the FoNet team, and the entire journalism community. EED is grateful to have had the chance to know Zoran and work with him so closely. Zbogom, Zorane.
