OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media expresses concern regarding expulsion of Russian journalist Olga Kurlaeva from Latvia

VIENNA, 5 January 2018 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Harlem Désir today expressed concern regarding the recent deportations of Russian journalists from Latvia.

On 4 January, Olga Kurlaeva, a journalist with Russian State Television and Radio Broadcasting Company (VGTRK), was reportedly detained by Latvian law enforcement representatives and deported from the country.

“I recall that OSCE participating States have committed themselves to facilitating the work and accreditation of journalists coming from other OSCE States,” Désir wrote in a letter to the Latvian authorities. “Free access to information and free flow of information between the participating States contribute to the freedom of the media in the OSCE region and are an essential part of the broad concept of security on which the organization is based.  That’s why I call on the authorities to reconsider the use of restrictive and selective measures in relation to foreign journalists who pursue their professional activities.”

The journalist’s deportation follows the expulsion from Latvia of her husband, Anatoliy Kurlaev, a journalist with the Russian TVC television channel, on 2 January 2018. The Representative raised his case in a separate communication with the Latvian authorities.

Désir also stressed that the reasoning for such restrictive actions in both cases lacks transparency and remains unclear.

The Representative reiterated his call to all participating States to facilitate the travel of media workers between countries and reminded them of the important recommendations produced by his Office in the communiqué on the matter of denying entry to journalists (see www.osce.org/fom/117092).

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He 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.