OSCE media freedom representative strongly condemns beating of journalist in Montenegro

VIENNA, 4 January 2014 – OSCE media freedom representative Dunja Mijatović today condemned last night’s physical attack on Dan newspaper journalist Lidija Nikčević and called on the authorities to finally end impunity for attacks against journalists. 

“This is just the latest in a series of violent incidents on journalists and media in Montenegro. I strongly condemn this attack and urge the authorities to swiftly investigate this and all the other attacks, prosecuting the perpetrators to the full extent of the law,” Mijatović said.

According to media reports a masked assailant wielding a baseball bat attacked Lidija Nikčević last night at 19.15 in front of her office. She sustained a concussion, head and body injuries.

“I am extremely concerned about the safety of journalists in Montenegro. The fact that no one has yet been prosecuted or arrested for the attacks on Vijesti newspaper and the bomb which exploded in front of Tufik Softić’s house in August of last year sends a message of impunity. This is not acceptable,” said Mijatović.

She urged the authorities to not only condemn this attack but to take immediate steps to reverse this negative trend.