OSCE media freedom representative welcomes UN Security Council action to improve safety of journalists

VIENNA, 17 July 2013 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Dunja Mijatović, today welcomed the UN Security Council’s initiative to enhance the implementation of UNSC Resolution 1738, strengthening the safety of journalists.

“The UN Security Council today raises a very important issue. We are witnessing attacks on members of the media every day and we all need to work together on improving their safety,” Mijatović said.

“We must make sure that each and every member of the media, online and offline, is able to work without fear of violence and threats. Safety of journalists is a top priority for my office and we will continue to co-operate with international organizations, governments, NGOs, journalists and societies to raise awareness on this issue,” Mijatović said.

Resolution 1738 was unanimously adopted by the UN Security Council on 23 December 2006, condemning intentional attacks against journalists. The Security Council is scheduled to have an open debate on the protection of journalists on 17 July at 10 am Eastern Standard Time.