OSCE Representative welcomes legislation aiming to enhance journalists’ safety in Ukraine
VIENNA, 15 May 2015 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today welcomed the adoption of a law in Ukraine which increases penalties for crimes committed against journalists and their close relatives.
On 14 May, the Supreme Rada amended the Criminal Code increasing criminal responsibility for hindering journalists’ work. The amendments include sanctions for:
- threats of murder and violence;
- deliberate attacks;
- deliberate destruction or damage to property;
- murder or attempted murder;
- abduction and detention.
“I trust that these important legislative changes will contribute to ensuring journalists’ safety in Ukraine,” Mijatović said. “The authorities should spare no efforts in fully investigating the circumstances of all crimes committed against members of the media, including the numerous attacks and killings in recent years. There must be no impunity for crimes committed against journalist.”
In addition, amendments have been adopted to the Law on state support of mass media and social protection of journalists, which enhance support to journalists or their families if a member of the media is killed or injured on the job.
“The security situation for journalists in different regions of Ukraine remains worrying,” Mijatović said. “Unfortunately, members of the media continue to pay a very high price for doing their job.”
Mijatović noted recent cases involving journalists of television channels 112 and ZIK, whose work was obstructed in Zhitomir and suburbs of Kyiv. The journalist with 112 was attacked by a member of the city council, while the ZIK’s crew was attacked by men who seized its recording equipment. Reportedly, the police have launched investigations into both incidents.
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 atwww.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on facebook.com/osce.rfom.