#Czech Republic #Prague #United Group #N1 channel #Nova channel

United Group's Stance on Editorial Independence

In a robust response to recent allegations, United Group has firmly rejected the false narratives surrounding its Serbian news enterprises, particularly the claims asserting that it seeks to undermine or jeopardize the editorial independence of its news channels N1 and Nova. The company distinctly clarifies that the editorial decisions for these channels are made solely by their editorial teams, ensuring a clear separation from the management and operational sides of the organization.

The organization has articulated the necessity of maintaining a free press, emphasizing that its current leadership and major shareholder, BC Partners, staunchly value and uphold editorial neutrality. This commitment is rooted in a firm understanding that political influence has no place in journalistic content decisions. To further reinforce this point, United Group has recently implemented measures aimed at fortifying this independence.

Among these initiatives is the enhancement of an editorial code of conduct, the establishment of non-interference agreements, and the oversight of content independence at the channel level, which also includes the appointment of an external ombudsman to provide an additional layer of accountability. This proactive approach is supported by two leading international consultants who have been invited to assist with these efforts.

United Group reiterates its unwavering stance against any political or non-economic interferences in editorial choices and states emphatically that discussions regarding potential sales of N1 and Nova to state-backed entities, such as Telekom Srbija, are without basis. The claims that such contexts are currently under consideration or promoted by the existing leadership are simply untrue and represent an intentional distortion of the facts.

The company highlights a chronological overview of events, revealing that discussions about selling these news entities were only raised under the previous administration, led by founder and minority shareholder Dragan Šolak. In January 2025, it was documented that he proposed the termination of N1 and Nova's broadcasts on Serbian television for a one-time payment, along with other significant acquisitions aimed at centralizing control over various media assets.

Moreover, Šolak’s ambitions included a substantial bonus contingent upon brokering deals that would effectively alter the operational landscape of media outlets under United Group. Such frameworks contradict the present operational ethos established by the current leadership, which is firmly rooted in promoting transparency, accountability, and an operational focus that serves to bolster the integrity of its media properties.

As a commercial entity, United Group remains focused on enhancing value across its portfolio through robust and ethical business practices—especially as its primary objectives interweave the processes of efficient management and operational prowess. The transformation within leadership witnessed in mid-2025 aligns with an overarching strategy to solidify the company's operations in telecommunications, media, technology, and cloud services across its key markets in the European Union, ensuring resilience and profitability.

In conclusion, the recent surge of media speculation regarding United Group is overly reductive and misses the nuances of the strategic framework that governs its operations. With over 14,000 employees, of which approximately 4,000 are engaged in media and news functions, the focus remains clear: the safeguarding of editorial independence against any form of pressure or threat.

United Group’s performance metrics from the first half of 2025 reveal a significant 5% increase in revenues, alongside a nearly 7% rise in EBITDA, indicating a positive trajectory amid a complex media landscape. The company’s commitment lies in sustaining a firm editorial independence while ensuring operational efficiency remains paramount for all divisions within its expansive portfolio.

This reaffirmation of independence not only solidifies United Group’s current market position but also assures its audiences and stakeholders of its dedication to maintaining high journalistic standards free from outside influences.