OSCE Representative calls on authorities to thoroughly investigate the death of journalist Alexander Shchetinin and end impunity in Ukraine

VIENNA, 29 August 2016 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today called on Ukrainian authorities to carry out a thorough investigation into the death of journalist Alexander Shchetinin.
 
On 28 August, Shchetinin, a journalist with and founder of the Noviy Region online news agency, was found dead in his apartment in Kyiv with a gunshot wound.
 
“The circumstances of this tragedy must be swiftly and thoroughly investigated,” Mijatović said. “His death is a loss for media community and my sincere condolences go out to Shchetinin’s family, friends and colleagues.”
 
The Representative also reiterated her call on the authorities to improve the fragile situation regarding the safety of journalists and fully and effectively address the issue of impunity.

Shchetinin, originally from the Russian Federation, worked as a journalist in Ukraine for several years. He was a member of the Ukrainian National Union of Journalists.

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.