OSCE media freedom representative expresses his condolences following tragic death of journalist in Germany
VIENNA, 20 September 2018 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Harlem Désir today expressed his condolences following the news of a tragic death of a young journalist, who died yesterday while filming a police operation at a protest near Aachen in Germany.
“I am shocked and saddened by the sudden and tragic death of a young journalist. My sincere condolences go out to his family, friends and colleagues,” the Representative said. “I understand that the death was accidental and hope that all the circumstances linked to this tragedy will be swiftly clarified.”
The journalist was killed on 19 September while filming the police who were dismantling treehouses set up by protesters in their protest against logging in the Hambacher Forest. The journalist reportedly fell 15 metres to his death when the planks of a makeshift suspended bridge collapsed. The police have started an investigation into the accident.
The journalist’s name has not been disclosed.
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.