OSCE Representative expresses concern about journalists’ safety in Ukraine

VIENNA, 11 May 2016 - OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today expressed concern about the safety of journalists and media workers in Ukraine following an incident where personal information of journalists was leaked.

This week a Kyiv-based website “Mirotvorets” revealed personal information of more than 4,000 representatives of various Ukrainian and international media outlets, including CNN, Agence France-Presse, Reuters, BBC, New York Times, Vice News and Al Jazeera, who were accredited by the so-called “Donetsk People’s Republic”. The website alleged that these journalists “co-operated with terrorist organization” and violated Ukrainian legislation.

“This is a very alarming development which could further endanger the safety situation for journalists,” Mijatović said. “Journalists report on issues of public interest and they should not be harassed for doing their job.”

Mijatović noted concern expressed by media community in and around Ukraine about the leaked list, and said it was worrying that some journalists on the list already received threats.

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.