OSCE media freedom representative concerned by threats against journalists in Bosnia and Herzegovina

VIENNA, 16 April 2013 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Dunja Mijatović, expressed concern today about threats against journalists Predrag Lucić and Nebojša Vukanović in Bosnia and Herzegovina. She called on the authorities to condemn such threats and ensure journalists’ safety.

“Unfortunately this is not the first time journalists are threatened and intimidated. This is a worrying trend and shows the need for action by the authorities to ensure that threats like these are not repeated,” Mijatović said.

She underlined that death threats and calls for violence can never be a response to someone’s view, no matter how provocative, critical or satirical. “Such attempts at threats and intimidation, as in the case of Predrag Lucić, endanger journalists’ safety and can create a chilling effect on all. I call for a swift investigation into the case,” Mijatović said.

In general, politicians and public figures must show a higher level of tolerance when they deal with the media, she added, emphasizing that authorities on all levels have the responsibility to ensure that journalists can work in an environment where threats against them are not tolerated.

“I urge the authorities to create a safe environment for journalists throughout the country. Different views need to be accepted and fostered. There can be no excuse for any kind of attacks that can endanger freedom of expression and freedom of the media,” Mijatović said.