OSCE media freedom representative concerned by denial of entry of Italian RAI journalist to Ukraine, reiterates call to allow foreign journalists to enter

VIENNA, 25 March 2019 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, today reiterated his call for Ukrainian authorities to allow foreign journalists to pursue their professional activities unimpeded. His call followed a denial of entry to Marc Innaro, the Moscow correspondent of the Italian Public Service Broadcaster (RAI), and his colleague, who is a camera operator.

According to reports, on 24 March, the crew was denied entry to Ukraine by the State Border Service of Ukraine at an airport in Kyiv. Reportedly, the journalists planned to cover the upcoming elections and film several interviews, including with President Petro Poroshenko.

“I am concerned by the denial of entry to RAI journalist Marc Innaro to Ukraine” Désir said.

“Marc Innaro, like other foreign journalists, came to Ukraine to cover the presidential election. I recall that OSCE participating States are committed to facilitating the entry of journalists from other participating States when the purpose is to engage in journalism activities. I call on the authorities to abstain from creating obstacles preventing journalists from entering the country in this important time. Such obstructions may impede the free flow of information and are an obstacle to freedom of the media,” the Representative added.

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.