OSCE Representative Désir concerned by search at 1+1 channel in Ukraine, calls on authorities to respect confidentiality of sources
VIENNA, 6 February 2020 – Following yesterday’s search of the editorial office of 1+1 TV channel, the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, called on the Ukrainian authorities to ensure that media activities are not obstructed and confidentiality of sources is respected.
On 5 February, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) conducted a search of the editorial office of 1+1 TV channel in Kyiv. According to media reports, the search was conducted as part of SBU’s investigation on charges of “illegal use of special technology for secret obtaining of information”. This follows the recent publication of conversations allegedly involving high-level public officials. The SBU informed that the search was carried out in relation to specific persons, and in locations where they could create and store the audio files obtained illegally.
“I am concerned by the search of the newsroom of 1+1 TV Channel, and that computers and belongings of journalists were seized. I call on the authorities to ensure that the inquiry does not obstruct the work of the media and to respect the principle of confidentiality of journalistic sources which is recognized internationally,” Désir said. “I am particularly concerned that such actions may have a chilling effect on the work of all media. The protection of journalistic sources is a key element of media freedom and especially of investigative journalism.”
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.