OSCE media freedom representative calls amendments to Latvian criminal law potentially harmful to free expression, free media

VIENNA, 14 February 2014 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today expressed concern about proposed amendments to the Criminal Law of the Republic of Latvia that criminalize “the public denial or glorification of Soviet and Nazi actions against Latvia.”

“I call on the Latvian authorities to carefully reflect on the proposed changes as they might stifle pluralist debate and negatively affect freedom of the media,” Mijatović said. “The vaguely worded law could be interpreted to infringe on the right to free expression.”

According to media reports, the amendments, proposed by the Justice Ministry, are being discussed in the Saeima (Parliament). Penalties for the public denial or glorification of Soviet and Nazi actions against the country could include prison terms of up to three years.

“I am very much aware that historical debates can be very sensitive and painful and I have full understanding and respect with Latvian society,” Mijatovic said. “However, any legislative provisions criminalizing public expression and speech should be restricted to instances of intentional and dangerous incitement to violence only, in line with the international media freedom standards and principles.”

“Despite the differing political considerations, the media should continue to play a vital role in analyzing all matters of concern and informing the public about them - including painful, shocking or provocative historical issues,” Mijatovic said.