OSCE Mission supports safety of journalists in Kosovo

PRISHTINË/PRIŠTINA, 23 September 2016 – The outgoing Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, Jean-Claude Schlumberger, hosted today the chairpersons of the Association of Journalists of Kosovo, Shkëlqim Hysenaj, and of the Journalists’ Association of Serbia registered in Kosovo, Budimir Ničić, to donate 50 sets of vests and jackets bearing the word ‘PRESS’.

During a time of recurring protests in which journalists face difficult situations and in some cases have suffered injuries, the journalists’ associations requested the Mission provide them with protective gear. These vests and jackets will help journalists to report safely by distinguishing them from the crowd.

“Journalists in Kosovo do not have an easy job, and are often challenged to the extent that they face serious situations. The work of journalists becomes even more dangerous when reporting on protests and violent demonstrations. To be able to report more safely, they need to be identifiable,” said Schlumberger.

Schlumberger encouraged the chairpersons of journalists’ associations to continue to support the work of media and safety of journalists in the future. “Today we are providing you with vests and jackets with visible “PRESS” insignia. I hope they will help you in your work, but at the same time I also hope there will not be many such occasions for you to report from,” added the Ambassador.

In the coming months, the OSCE Mission will provide journalists’ associations with a Guide on Safety of Journalists during Reporting on Protests, with advice and know-how to report from protests and violent demonstrations. The guide will help journalists avoid injuries and/or damage to equipment while working.

The OSCE Mission in Kosovo is mandated with the protection and promotion of human rights, democratization, and public safety sector development. It helps safeguard freedom of the media and freedom of expression and supports media development.