Ljubljana - Journalists at public broadcaster RTV Slovenija will stage a one-day strike on 26 September as a way of intensifying their strike activities demanding journalist and editorial autonomy.

The strike committee said on Monday the decision was taken because of a very difficult situation as talks had brought no progress over the past three months.

The journalists first staged a few-hours-long token strike on 23 May and then again on 20 June, while saying that the strike is on until their demands are met.

Trade unionist Helena Milinković said in a statement today that the talks had brought no progress while threats to staff were intensifying and some staff were leaving. At the same time, the management refuses to assume any responsibility for the situation, including falling ratings.

Milinković also accused the management of exerting pressure on staff at TV Slovenija news programmes, while threatening those supporting them.

She moreover accused it of violating the production plan and hiring staff lacking experience to host the most demanding news shows.

While the strike committee has turned down the management's proposal for mediation, dismissing it as foot-dragging, the trade unions decided to invite the Culture Ministry to get engaged in talks to resolve the dispute.

On 26 September, staff will meet in front of the broadcaster and give a news conference at 2pm, while a rally in front of the National Assembly is scheduled for 7pm.

Talks on the strike demands are expected to continue on 30 September.