Free expression and freedom of the media remains under threat in Crimea, Ukraine, OSCE Representative says

VIENNA, 19 April 2016 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today expressed concern about the intimidation of journalist Nikolay Semena in Crimea, Ukraine.

According to reports, in the early hours of 19 April Semena’s apartment in Simferopol was searched and his equipment was seized. The journalist was detained and released after several hours of interrogation. Reportedly, he is subject to a travel ban.

“This recent detention only shows the urgent need to stop the arbitrary practice of silencing journalists in Crimea,” Mijatović said.

Mijatović also noted that similar intimidating actions took place on the same day against a number of other residents of Crimea, including photographer Lieniara Abibulaeva and Ruslana Lyumanova.

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.