OSCE media freedom representative condemns attack on journalist in Bosnia and Herzegovina

VIENNA, 5 February 2014 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today condemned an attack by a police officer on RTV Slon cameraman Branislav Pavičić in Tuzla.

“The role of the police is to protect journalists and to make sure they can report on incidents of public interest in a free and safe manner. I condemn today’s attack on Pavičić and call on the authorities to fully investigate this attack and to prosecute the person responsible,” Mijatović said.

According to media reports, Pavičić was attacked by a police officer while filming a protest that took place in front of the Tuzla Canton Government building. He was wearing a badge identifying him as a journalist.

“I welcome that the Tuzla Government has publicly expressed concern about this attack and announced an investigation. I will continue to follow this case closely,” said Mijatović said.