OSCE Media Freedom Representative deplores detentions of journalists in Moscow, calls on Russian authorities to respect rights of media workers to cover demonstrations

VIENNA, 12 June 2019 - The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, called on the Russian authorities to respect the rights of journalists to cover public events and release all detained media workers, following the peaceful demonstration in Moscow today. 

"I call on the authorities to release all detained journalists and take swift steps to ensure restraint of force on the part of law enforcement representatives toward members of the media," Désir said. "Media must be able to provide coverage of public events without hindrance, in a free and safe manner." 

According to reports, more than 30 members of the media were detained, some mistreated, at today's demonstration in Moscow, which was held in solidarity with the investigative journalist, Ivan Golunov, including at least 11 journalists covering the event upon editorial assignment. In particular, the mistreated journalists represented Novaya Gazeta, Kommersant, Meduza, Vedomosti, Echo Moskvy, Dozhd, Der Spiegel, Grani and The Insider.  

Earlier, the Representative expressed his concern regarding the detention of Golunov (see https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/422465). On 11 June, the criminal charges against him were dropped. 

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.