OSCE media freedom representative condemns media intimidation in Bosnia and Herzegovina

TIRANA, 20 September 2013 - The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Dunja Mijatović, today condemned two attacks on the media in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Last evening, the front door of the editorial office of Slobodna Bosna weekly was set on fire; at the same time in Mostar, graffiti appeared containing threats against local journalist Nermin Bise.

“I condemn these incidents and call on the authorities to swiftly and fully investigate them,” said Mijatović. “Any acts of intimidation of the media and journalists can create a chilling effect on freedom of the media in the country.”

Mijatović is currently in Tirana at the 3rd OSCE South East Europe Media Conference that concludes today.

“The safety of journalists is a key issue that we are discussing today. One of the conclusions that participating journalists, representatives of civil society, government and academics from the region made is that the authorities must condemn all acts of violence and intimidation against journalists, and ensure that there is no impunity for such crimes.”