Obstruction of journalists’ work in Ukraine worrying, OSCE representative says

VIENNA, 26 April 2016 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today expressed concern about the obstruction of the work of Savik Shuster, journalist, producer and host of the “Shuster Live” television show in Ukraine.

According to reports, the Kyiv City Employment Centre yesterday annulled Shuster’s work permit. The annulment was made after Shuster allegedly did not inform the authorities about the existence of a criminal record. Shuster, a Canadian citizen, denies the existence of such a record and considers the development as pressure on his professional activity.

“The circumstances of this case raise a number of concerns and questions,” Mijatović said. “I urge the Ukrainian authorities to swiftly look into this matter, making sure that the journalist’s rights are safeguarded and that Shuster is allowed to continue performing his work in a free and safe manner.”

Since 2015 Shuster’s production company “Savik Shuster Studio” has reportedly been subject to tax inspections and a criminal investigation.

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.