OSCE media freedom representative calls on Tajikistani authorities to remove names of journalists from list of people with connections to terrorists

VIENNA, 28 March 2018 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Harlem Désir today wrote to Foreign Minister of Tajikistan Sirodjidin Aslov, calling for the removal of 14 journalists’ names from a “list of people wanted for serious crimes, including connections with terrorists”.

The National Bank of Tajikistan has expanded its list of people wanted for committing grave crimes, including connections with terrorists. It currently contains 1,372 names, among which at least 14 persons are journalists and bloggers.

“I am deeply concerned about the decision of the National Bank of Tajikistan to expand the list of people to include media professionals and to publish their names. I am surprised that the journalists were included on the list, despite the lack of evidence of criminal activity,” said Désir.

“Publishing the names of journalists on the given list could jeopardize their safety, and their inclusion on such a list also violates their right to presumption of innocence,” he said.

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He 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.