Safety of journalists prerequisite for freedom of speech and free media, says OSCE Kosovo Mission Head

On the occasion of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, the Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, Ambassador Jan Braathu, called upon all relevant institutions in Kosovo to continue working towards ensuring safe and unfettered working conditions for the media.

“By the end of September 2016, the Association of Journalists of Kosovo logged eight cases of threats or attacks against journalists. While any threat or attack against media professionals in their line of duty is a concern, we note that this is an improvement compared to the 27 cases of violence against journalists that took place in 2015.”

“Safety of journalists is a prerequisite for freedom of speech and free media. Therefore, I encourage institutions dealing with crimes against journalists to provide for a systematic response, prompt investigations, and timely adjudication in relation to such instances,” added Ambassador Braathu.

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