Story perspectives

Marian Kocner's Trial: Justice for Journalist's Murder?

1/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Marian Kocner's trial begins in Slovakia, accused of orchestrating the 2018 murder of Slovak journalist Jan Kuciak and his fiancée.
This is Kocner's third trial after two acquittals were overturned.
The murder sparked anti-corruption protests that led to Slovakia's prime minister's resignation.
Experts say physical violence is a visible threat, while intimidation and self-censorship rise.
The European Federation of Journalists recorded ten journalist deaths in 2025, none in the EU.

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Story summary

Marian Kocner's trial begins in Slovakia, accused of orchestrating the 2018 murder of Slovak journalist Jan Kuciak and his fiancée.
This is Kocner's third trial after two acquittals were overturned.
The murder sparked anti-corruption protests that led to Slovakia's prime minister's resignation.
Experts say physical violence is a visible threat, while intimidation and self-censorship rise.
The European Federation of Journalists recorded ten journalist deaths in 2025, none in the EU.