OSCE media freedom representative welcomes acquittal of Greek journalist

VIENNA, 2 November 2012 - The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Dunja Mijatović, today welcomed an Athens court’s ruling to acquit Greek journalist, Kostas Vaxevanis, of charges of violating national privacy laws as a result of a one-day trial.

“I am pleased that the Greek court has acquitted Vaxevanis,” Mijatović said. “The ruling confirms the recognition of  the fundamental role of media in discussing matters of public interest.”

Vaxevanis was detained after he published a list of Greek nationals allegedly holding Swiss bank accounts for tax evasion purposes.

Earlier this week, Mijatović expressed concern over the case, and urged for an open trial.