OSCE media freedom representative calls on Croatian authorities to respect freedom of expression in social media

VIENNA, 11 July – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today called on the Croatian authorities to respect free speech on social media platforms, following a case where an individual was fined for offending the police on Facebook.

“It is unacceptable to arrest, fine or imprison people for their views, regardless of how, when and where they are expressed. I call on the Croatian authorities to refrain from these repressive measures and safeguard freedom of expression,” Mijatović said.

On 8 July the police in Đakovo in eastern Croatia arrested and fined an individual for offending and patronizing police officers on Facebook. According to Croatian legislation on public order, this type of offence could result in imprisonment of up to 30 days.

“In general no one should face imprisonment for expressing their views, free speech should only be restricted to instances of intentional and dangerous incitement to violence,” Mijatović said.

“The authorities should conduct a thorough review of all legislation to safeguard fundamental freedom of expression, starting with the full decriminalization of insult, defamation and libel.”

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. She provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on facebook.com/osce.rfom.