Journalist killed in Kosovo
VIENNA, 12 January 1999 - The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Freimut Duve made the following statement:
I was saddened to learn of the death of Enver Maloku, a prominent Albanian journalist in Kosovo, who was fatally shot by unknown gunmen on Monday. His death tragically underlines the need for all conflicting sides in Kosovo to reiterate their commitment to the safety and security of all journalists working in the province.
I have often spoken about censorship by killing and this latest attack against freedom of expression proves that those determined to fight journalists with guns have not laid down their arms. In 1998, nine journalist who lived in countries that are members of the OSCE and one person who lived and worked in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, a suspended member of the OSCE, were killed. Enver Maloku is the first casualty of 1999.
My office will look at possible measures that could be taken to provide support to journalists in Kosovo. However, only the authorities on the ground can fully guarantee their safety and security and I urge them to do so immediately.