OSCE Representative welcomes release of Montenegrin journalist and calls for conclusion of his case

VIENNA, 6 January 2017 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović welcomed yesterday’s release of journalist Jovo Martinović from pre-trial detention in Montenegro, calling for a swift conclusion of his case.

Martinović, a well-known investigative journalist in Montenegro, has been in custody since being detained on October 22, 2015, and, on April 8, 2016, the Special Prosecutor's Office filed an indictment against the journalist and 13 other suspects.

“Prolonged detention can have a detrimental impact on media freedom and a chilling effect on investigative journalism,” Mijatović said.

In February 2016 Mijatović wrote to the Prime Minister of Montenegro calling for a swift and thorough investigation into his case.

“Given the nature of his work, and the number of doubts and concerns surrounding the charges brought against him I once again call for the swift resolution of his case.”

The Committee to Protect Journalists, along with the Human Rights Watch and Reporters Without Borders, have repeatedly called for Jovo Martinović’s release.

 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