OSCE Representative Désir and Head of Mission Berton condemn physical attack against journalist in Bosnia and Herzegovina, urge swift investigation

VIENNA, 27 August 2018 - OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Harlem Désir and Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) Bruce G. Berton strongly condemned the severe beating of journalist Vladimir Kovačević that took place in Banja Luka, BiH, on the evening of 26 August.

“I strongly condemn the brutal assault against journalist Kovačević. The negative rhetoric being used against the media must end, in order to prevent further such attacks against journalists. I urge the authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina to swiftly investigate this attack and bring its perpetrators to justice,” Désir said.

Vladimir Kovačević, a journalist from BN TV, was attacked and beaten by two unknown assailants. The journalist sustained several injuries, for which he was then hospitalized. The attack was reported to the police and an investigation has been launched.

„The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina has spoken often about the negative rhetoric and atmosphere in BiH, especially in an election year, which creates unfavorable conditions for journalists to perform their crucial function, as evidenced by this series of recent attacks,” said Berton. “We call for the authorities to ensure that journalists enjoy safe working conditions. They must be able to do their job in an environment free of intimidation and threats, either verbal or physical,” he added.

“It is of the utmost importance that the authorities increase their efforts to ensure the safety of journalists,” Representative Désir said. “Any attack on the media is an attack on democratic values as well as citizens’ right to be informed.”

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He 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.