Disagreement with editorial line cannot result in violence against media; safety of journalists in Ukraine must be ensured, says OSCE Representative

VIENNA, 5 September 2016 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today condemned arson attack against Inter, a nationwide television broadcaster, which took place yesterday during a demonstration in Kyiv.

Following the attack several people suffered from smoke inhalation and needed medical attention.

The broadcaster is accused of disloyalty to Ukraine by some government officials and leaders of non-governmental organizations.

“Violence is never an acceptable response to disagreements with editorial policy, even if the reporting is seen as provocative and controversial,” Mijatović said.

She noted condemnation of the attack by President Petro Poroshenko and the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine.

Mijatović said she was encouraged by law enforcement’s swift response to this attack. “I welcome the quick launch of an investigation by the authorities. I trust they will do their utmost to provide a safe working environment for the staff of Inter.”

Mijatović also expressed concern that Inter reporter Daniil Rusakov was denied entry to Ukraine on 1 September and that several staff members, including former journalist Maria Stolyarova and manager Igor Shuvalov of the National Information Systems company, which produces content for Inter, are reportedly being investigated by national security services.

In February, Mijatović also raised concern about protests against the editorial policy of the channel (see //www.osce.org/fom/224676).

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 atwww.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and at www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.