OSCE media freedom representative urges authorities in Greece to swiftly investigate beating of journalist

VIENNA, 8 February 2016 – The perpetrators of the attack against Greek journalist Demitrios Perros must be swiftly brought to justice, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović said today.

“Violence against journalists for their work is unacceptable,” Mijatović stressed. “I call on the authorities of Greece to do their utmost to quickly find the perpetrators and bring them to justice.”

According to media reports, on 4 February freelance radio journalist Demitrios Perros was covering a public protest in Athens when he was attacked by a group of assailants after having identified himself as a journalist. He sustained severe head injuries that required emergency medical attention.

“I welcome that the authorities have started an investigation, especially in light of the alarming media reports that nearby riot police saw the attack but did not intervene,” Mijatović said. “It is the responsibility of law enforcement forces to ensure that journalists can carry out their work freely and under safe conditions.”

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 www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.