OSCE Representative lauds launch of new Freedom of Expression strategy in Norway

OSLO, 18 January 2016 – Participating in the launch of the Norwegian Foreign Ministry’s new strategy for freedom of expression, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today lauded Norway’s initiative.

“I very much welcome the initiative by the Norwegian government to implement a comprehensive approach on how to promote freedom of expression in its foreign and development policy,” Mijatović said. “This should serve as an example for other states.”

The strategy, presented by Foreign Minister Børge Brende, is an effort to strengthen Norway’s international work in this field, focusing on independent media, protection of journalists and access to information.

“Freedom of expression and independent media are under growing pressure,” Brende said. “Norway will increase its support to independent media and this new strategy puts freedom of expression at the heart of Norway’s foreign and development policy.”

The strategy was presented at a panel discussion in which Brende, Mijatović and David Kaye, the UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, participated. More information about the strategy is available at https://www.regjeringen.no/en/aktuelt/promote_freedom/id2470543/

During her visit to Oslo, Mijatović will also participate in a panel discussion on surveillance and sources protection, hosted by the Norwegian PEN, Association of Norwegian Editors, Norway’s Press Association and International Commission of Jurists, Norway.

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. She provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.