OSCE Representative concerned about Latvian authorities’ decision to deport Russian journalist
VIENNA, 24 October 2016 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today expressed concern about a recent decision by the authorities in Latvia to deport a member of the media from the Russian Federation.
According to reports, last week Ella Taranova, chief-producer with Rossiya Segodnya news agency, travelled to Jūrmala, a town 35 kilometres west of Riga, to attend the Baltic Forum conference. While she was allowed to enter the country, on 21 October border service representatives detained her at the conference venue, took her to their office and then deported her from Riga’s airport to the Russian Federation.
Taranova was reportedly deported despite having all the required travel documents, including a valid Schengen visa, and was not provided with any sound explanation for the expulsion.
“While I do not question the right of any state to control its borders and safeguard its citizens, I am worried that this kind of restrictive measures targeting members of the media could have a negative effect on media freedom,” Mijatović said. “I ask the authorities to swiftly look into this case.”
Mijatović also recalled the OSCE media freedom principles and reminded of the important recommendations produced by her Office in a communiqué on the denial of entry of journalists (see www.osce.org/fom/117092).
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.