Malta Economy Minister Issues four Libel Suits and Warrants Against Blogger Daphne Caruana Galizia

Update: 13 Sep 2018 State replied
Year 10 Feb 2017 Country Malta Category Harassment and intimidation of journalists Source of threat State Partner EFJ/IFJ , CPJ , Index , IPI , RSF Alert level Level 2
10 Feb 2017 Malta Harassment and intimidation of journalists State EFJ/IFJ , CPJ , Index , IPI , RSF Level 2

Malta Independent journalist and blogger Daphne Caruana Galizia is having her bank accounts frozen with precautionary warrants for 47,460 EUR after a court upheld on 8 February 2017 a request by Maltese Economy Minister Chris Cardona and his consultant Joe Gerada to issue garnishee orders alongside four libel suits they have filed against her. The journalist is sued for publishing on her blog an article reporting that both men visited a brothel in Velbert (Germany) while on government business. Cardona has denied the allegation. According to media reports, the effect of the precautionary warrants on her assets means her bank accounts will remain frozen until the case is concluded and that could take many years. In a statement published on her blog, Daphne Caruana Galizia denounced an attempt to gag the press. The Institute of Maltese Journalists called on the minister to reconsider his action, highlighting the exaggerated nature of the legal action.

Updates

13 Sep 2018 : 34 libel proceedings remained open against Caruana Galizia after her assassination on 16 October 2017 and are pending before the domestic courts. Among them, one case brought by Malta's Prime Minister Joseph Muscat; two cases brought by Minister for Tourism Konrad Mizzi; two cases brought by the Prime Minister's Chief of Staff Keith Schembri; one case brought by former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank Alfred Mifsud; one case brought by the head of Malta's 2015 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting task force Phyllis Muscat; and 19 cases brought by businessman Silvio Debono.
16 May 2018 : A new revised Media and Defamation Bill enacted on 13 May 2018 decriminalises defamation. In addition to abolishing criminal libel, the Act removes references to offending “public morals or decency”, prevents plaintiffs from filing garnishee orders against journalists and only allows applicants to file one libel suit per story.
31 Mar 2017 : On 11 March 2017 Silvio Debono, owner of real estate investment company DB Group, filed 19 libel cases against journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia. Galizia published a number of articles about Debono cutting a deal with Malta's government to take over a large tract of public land in a high value coastal area on which he plans to build a Hard Rock Hotel and two towers of flats for sale. In her statement, Daphne Caruana Galizia said that the libel suits are all about the same subject, "taking advantage of the fact that the law allows them to sue for each comment, article or blog post even if the subject matter and the author are the same." “The cases will drag through the courts, it will cost me around €8,000 merely to file my responses, and anybody else would have been intimidated into submission,” she added.

Follow-ups

16 May 2018 : OSCE representative welcomes decriminalization of defamation in Malta, urges dismissal of civil defamation lawsuits against Caruana Galizia’s heirs
16 Feb 2017 : OSCE Representative for Media Freedom urges authorities in Malta to protect independent journalists and free expression
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5 April 2018

Montenegrin Journalist Targeted in Car Bombing
OSCE media freedom representative condemns bomb attack in Montenegro, commends swift police action

4 April 2018

Slovak Journalist Gets a Suspended Sentence for Defamation
OSCE media freedom representative calls on Slovakia to decriminalize defamation and respect journalists’ rights

3 April 2018

2 France 5 Journalists Denied Access to President Macron During his Visit to Lille
Reply from the French authorities (in French only)

3 April 2018

Journalist Caroline Christinaz from “Le Temps” of Geneva Questioned by the Police While on a Reporting Assignment in France
Reply from the French authorities (in French only)

28 March 2018

Slovenian Media under Police Pressure to Reveal Journalistic Sources
Reply of the Republic of Slovenia (information provided by the Ministry of Interior)

28 March 2018

Two Ukrainian Journalists Sentenced to 9 Years’ Imprisonment for Assisting Separatism
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

23 March 2018

Greek Sport Journalist Aris Asvestas Assaulted for Second Time
Reply from the Greek Authorities

23 March 2018

Turkey: Arrest of At Least 12 Employees of Cumhuriyet Newspaper
All Cumhuriyet journalists must be released, says OSCE representative Désir following continued detention of CEO Atalay

21 March 2018

Strana Editor-in-Chief Flees, Seeks Asylum in Austria after Receiving Death Threats
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

20 March 2018

Ahmet Altan and Mehmet Altan Detained for Words Used on TV
On 20 March 2018, the European Court of Human Rights issued its Grand chamber judgment on Mehmet Altan’s case. The Court found there had been a violation of Article 5 § 1 (right to liberty and security) and a violation of Article 10 (freedom of expression) of the European Convention for Human Rights. With regards to article 5 §1, according to the Court findings, “Mr Altan’s continued pre-trial detention, after the Constitutional Court’s clear and unambiguous judgment of 11 January 2018 (…), could not be regarded as ‘lawful’ ”. The Court held that “for another court to call into question the powers conferred on a constitutional court to give final and binding judgments on individual applications ran counter to the fundamental principles of the rule of law and legal certainty, which (…) were the cornerstones of the guarantees against arbitrariness”. Under Article 10, the Court held in particular that “there was no reason to reach a different conclusion from that of the Constitutional Court, which had found that Mr Altan’s initial and continued pre-trial detention, following his expression of his opinions, constituted a severe measure that could not be regarded as a necessary and proportionate interference in a democratic society”. The Court pointed out in particular that “criticism of governments and publication of information regarded by a country’s leaders as endangering national interests should not attract criminal charges for particularly serious offences such as belonging to or assisting a terrorist organisation, attempting to overthrow the government or the constitutional order or disseminating terrorist propaganda”.

20 March 2018

Journalists Arrested in Major Clampdown following Failed Coup in Turkey
On 20 March 2018, the European Court of Human Rights issued its Grand chamber judgment on Şahin Alpay’s case. The Court found there had been a violation of Article 5 § 1 (right to liberty and security) and a violation of Article 10 (freedom of expression) of the European Convention for Human Rights. With regards to article 5 §1, according to the Court findings, “Mr Alpay’s continued pre-trial detention, after the Constitutional Court’s clear and unambiguous judgment of 11 January 2018 (…), could not be regarded as ‘lawful’ ”. The Court held that “for another court to call into question the powers conferred on a constitutional court to give final and binding judgments on individual applications ran counter to the fundamental principles of the rule of law and legal certainty, which (…) were the cornerstones of the guarantees against arbitrariness”. Under Article 46 (binding force and execution of judgments) of the Convention, the Court held that it was incumbent on the respondent State to ensure the termination of Mr Alpay’s pre-tria detention at the earliest possible date. Under Article 10, the Court held in particular that “there was no reason to reach a different conclusion from that of the Constitutional Court, which had found that Mr Alpay’s initial and continued pre-trial detention, following his expression of his opinions, constituted a severe measure that could not be regarded as a necessary and proportionate interference in a democratic society”. The Court pointed out in particular that “criticism of governments and publication of information regarded by a country’s leaders as endangering national interests should not attract criminal charges for particularly serious offences such as belonging to or assisting a terrorist organisation, attempting to overthrow the government or the constitutional order or disseminating terrorist propaganda”.

19 March 2018

Journalists Arrested in Major Clampdown following Failed Coup in Turkey
OSCE media freedom representative welcomes the release of Şahin Alpay but considers that "placing him under house arrest is contrary to the 2nd Constitutional Court ruling".

16 March 2018

Slovak Investigative Journalist Killed at Home
Following his country visit in the Slovak Republic, the Commissioner calls for a prompt and effective investigation in the murder of journalist Ján Kuciak in order to identify and punish the perpetrators, but especially those who ordered the murders. He also calls for an urgent public discussion about media freedom.

12 March 2018

Slovak Investigative Journalist Killed at Home
Response of the Slovak authorities

12 March 2018

Turkey: Arrest of At Least 12 Employees of Cumhuriyet Newspaper
OSCE Media Freedom Representative welcomes the release of two Cumhuriyet journalists, calls on Turkey to free Akın Atalay and drop charges against all defendants

9 March 2018

Journalists Arrested in Major Clampdown following Failed Coup in Turkey
OSCE representative Désir urges Turkey to release and drop charges against 25 media workers sentenced to prison, including journalists Aksoy and Taş

2 March 2018

Slovak Investigative Journalist Killed at Home
OSCE media freedom representative calls for full and transparent investigation of journalist’s murder at meeting with Slovak Prime Minister Fico

1 March 2018

Slovak Investigative Journalist Killed at Home
PACE President condemns murder of investigative journalist in the Slovak Republic

27 February 2018

Slovak Investigative Journalist Killed at Home
Statement of the Permanent Representative of the Slovak Republic to the Council of Europe

26 February 2018

Slovak Investigative Journalist Killed at Home
Human Rights Commissioner: "I will raise the issue during upcoming visit to the country."

26 February 2018

Slovak Investigative Journalist Killed at Home
"If death of investigative reporter Jan Kuciak is linked to his journalism, it would be an unprecedented attack on freedom of the press and democracy".

26 February 2018

Slovak Investigative Journalist Killed at Home
OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media representative strongly condemns murder of investigative reporter Kuciak in Slovakia

23 February 2018

Increased Verbal Abuse Against Independent Serbian Media.
Commissioner for Human Rights: ‘Concerted efforts needed to protect media freedoms in Serbia’

23 February 2018

Journalist Philippe Bertinchamps Threatened with Expulsion in Serbia
Commissioner for Human Rights: ‘Concerted efforts needed to protect media freedoms in Serbia’

23 February 2018

Intimidation Campaign against NUNS (Independent Journalists Association of Serbia)
Commissioner for Human Rights: ‘Concerted efforts needed to protect media freedoms in Serbia’

23 February 2018

Serbian Weekly ‘Vranjske Novine’ Closed Following Administrative Harassment
Commissioner for Human Rights: ‘Concerted efforts needed to protect media freedoms in Serbia’

23 February 2018

Journalists from Magločistač News Portal Receive Death Threats
Commissioner for Human Rights: ‘Concerted efforts needed to protect media freedoms in Serbia’

23 February 2018

Serbian Reporter Lidija Valtner Attacked During New Serbian President’s Inauguration
Commissioner for Human Rights: ‘Concerted efforts needed to protect media freedoms in Serbia’

23 February 2018

Journalist Stefan Cvetkovic Sentenced to Jail for Unauthorised Publication
Commissioner for Human Rights: ‘Concerted efforts needed to protect media freedoms in Serbia’

23 February 2018

Radio Journalist and Presenter Found Dead in Home
Commissioner for Human Rights: ‘Concerted efforts needed to protect media freedoms in Serbia’

23 February 2018

Serbian Journalist Stevan Dojčinović Target of a Smear Campaign
Commissioner for Human Rights: ‘Concerted efforts needed to protect media freedoms in Serbia’

23 February 2018

Investigative Journalists Receive Several Death Threats, Broadcaster Claims
Commissioner for Human Rights: ‘Concerted efforts needed to protect media freedoms in Serbia’

23 February 2018

Closure of the Serbian National Press Agency Tanjug
Commissioner for Human Rights: ‘Concerted efforts needed to protect media freedoms in Serbia’

23 February 2018

Impunity in the Case of the Murder of Dada Vujasinovic
Commissioner for Human Rights: ‘Concerted efforts needed to protect media freedoms in Serbia’

23 February 2018

Serbian Journalist Predrag Blagojević Assaulted by Police at a Music Festival over Identification
Commissioner for Human Rights: ‘Concerted efforts needed to protect media freedoms in Serbia’

23 February 2018

Serbian Investigative Journalist Ivan Ninić Suffers Brutal Attack
Commissioner for Human Rights: ‘Concerted efforts needed to protect media freedoms in Serbia’

16 February 2018

"Die Welt" Correspondent in Turkey Deniz Yücel Detained
OSCE Media freedom representative welcomes the release of Deniz Yücel, adding that all charges against him should be dropped.

16 February 2018

Ahmet Altan and Mehmet Altan Detained for Words Used on TV
Life sentences for Turkish journalists are an unprecedented, unacceptable attack on freedom of expression, say OSCE representative on Media Freedom.

16 February 2018

Journalists Arrested in Major Clampdown following Failed Coup in Turkey
Life sentences for Turkish journalists are an unprecedented, unacceptable attack on freedom of expression, say OSCE representative on Media Freedom.

12 February 2018

Injunction Prohibiting Media from Reporting on the Financial Dealings of Iceland Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson
Response from the Icelandic authorities

12 February 2018

France 2 TV channel sued in a Commercial Court by the Bolloré Group
Reply of the French authorities

12 February 2018

Journalist Attacked in Paris by Members or Supporters of the Jewish Defense League
Reply of the French authorities

12 February 2018

Around Ten Journalists from France Télévisions Assaulted by Residents
Reply of the French authorities

9 February 2018

Journalists Victims of Police Violence During Demonstrations
Reply of the French authorities

9 February 2018

Programme Cancellation and Dismissal Threats Within the French Channel Canal+
Reply of the French authorities

8 February 2018

French Journalists and Magistrates Subject to Death Threats
Reply of the French authorities

8 February 2018

French Satellite Provider under Pressure to Remove Kurdish Med Nûçe TV
Reply of the French authorities

7 February 2018

Intimidation Campaign against NUNS (Independent Journalists Association of Serbia)
Labelling NUNS as the enemy of State can severely endanger safety of journalists and the work of this journalists’ association in Serbia, says OSCE Media Freedom representative who expects this incident to be swiftly investigated.

7 February 2018

Expulsion of Two Russian Journalists from Latvia
Response of the Republic of Latvia

7 February 2018

Front National Refuses to Grant Accreditations to Mediapart and Quotidien on the Occasion of the Party’s "Presidential Congress”
Reply of the French authorities

7 February 2018

The State of Emergency Permits a Ban on Journalists Covering Public Events
Reply of the French authorities

7 February 2018

French Journalists Victims of Phone Harassment
Reply of the French authorities

6 February 2018

Poland: New Bill Could Ban Journalists from Historical Debate
Response of the Government of Poland

5 February 2018

Poland Opens Investigation over Article Critical of Constitutional Tribunal President
Reply from the Polish authorities

2 February 2018

Poland: New Bill Could Ban Journalists from Historical Debate
New law on World War II crimes in Poland can threaten freedom of expression, says OSCE Representative Désir.

29 January 2018

Russia: Proposals to Extend 'Foreign Agents' Law to Media Outlets
Broadening of "foreign agents" status for media in Russia detrimental to freedom of expression online, says OSCE Representative

27 January 2018

Novaya Gazeta Correspondent to be Deported
OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Harlem Désir welcomes Russian Supreme Court decision as positive step, calls for release of Ali Feruz.

25 January 2018

Investigative Journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia Killed by Car Bomb
PACE appointed General Rapporteur on Media Freedom & the protection of journalists will make his first inquiry into the murder of Maltese journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.

25 January 2018

Investigative Journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia Killed by Car Bomb
PACE adopts a motion for a resolution 'Daphne Caruana Galizia’s assassination and the rule of law, in Malta and beyond: ensuring that the whole truth emerges'

24 January 2018

Journalists’ Union ESIEMTH and Two Municipal Media Attacked in Thessaloniki
Response from the Greek authorities

19 January 2018

Turkey: Arrest of At Least 12 Employees of Cumhuriyet Newspaper
The Council of Europe Secretary General refers to the recent decisions of Turkey’s Constitutional Court in his address to the Committee of Ministers

19 January 2018

Ahmet Altan and Mehmet Altan Detained for Words Used on TV
The Council of Europe Secretary General refers to the recent decisions of Turkey’s Constitutional Court in his address to the Committee of Ministers

19 January 2018

Journalists Arrested in Major Clampdown following Failed Coup in Turkey
The Council of Europe Secretary General refers to the recent decisions of Turkey’s Constitutional Court in his address to the Committee of Ministers

15 January 2018

Exiled Journalist Abducted, Detained and Faces Charges in Azerbaijan
OSCE media freedom representative Désir condemns jailing of investigative journalist Afgan Mukhtarli in Azerbaijan

5 January 2018

Expulsion of Two Russian Journalists from Latvia
OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media expresses concern regarding expulsion of Russian journalist Olga Kurlaeva from Latvia

31 December 2017

Journalist Shot in Southern Russia
OSCE Media Freedom Representative condemns attack on journalist in Russia, calls for speedy and effective investigation.

26 December 2017

Russian Journalists Deported from Ukraine
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

18 December 2017

Uzbek Journalist on Interpol List Detained
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

18 December 2017

Government Plan to Strongly Reduce Funding for Public Service Broadcasting
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

18 December 2017

Polish Journalist Receives Death Threats After Public Polish TV Classifies Her Remarks As “Harmful to Poland”
Reply from the Government of Poland

18 December 2017

Azerbaijani Director of Internet Television Re-arrested
OSCE media freedom representative calls on Azerbaijan authorities to end restrictive measures detrimental to journalists’ freedom and safety

14 December 2017

Poland: TVN24 Channel Fined on Incitement Charges
Poland broadcasting regulator’s fine against private broadcaster TVN SA is unjustified and disproportionate, says OSCE media freedom representative.

14 December 2017

Journalists Targeted by Protesters in northern Cyprus
Response from the Cypriot authorities

29 November 2017

The Guardia Civil Raids Several Catalan Newsrooms
Reply from the Spanish authorities

27 November 2017

Croatian Journalist Maja Sever Received Death Threat Via Facebook over Her Report on Nigerian Refugees
Response from the Croatian authorities

20 November 2017

Russia: Proposals to Extend 'Foreign Agents' Law to Media Outlets
Registration of media as "foreign agents" not acceptable says OSCE media freedom representative

20 November 2017

Russia: Proposals to Extend 'Foreign Agents' Law to Media Outlets
Reacting to the new law, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights stated that 'these new restrictions on media freedom are highly regrettable'.

17 November 2017

Malta Economy Minister Issues four Libel Suits and Warrants Against Blogger Daphne Caruana Galizia
Response from the Maltese authorities

14 November 2017

Armenian TV Station Editor Assaulted While Reporting on Road Building Project
Reply from the Armenian authorities

13 November 2017

Draft Law Threatens Independence of AGERPRES News Agency
Response from the Romanian authorities

2 November 2017

Two Spanish Journalists Deported from Ukraine
Official reply from the Ukrainian authorities

31 October 2017

Physical Attack Against Journalist Drago Miljuš
Response from the Croatian authorities

24 October 2017

Ekho Moskvy Journalist Stabbed, Hospitalised in Moscow
OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media condemns attack on Ekho Moskvy journalist.

23 October 2017

Ekho Moskvy Journalist Stabbed, Hospitalised in Moscow
CoE Secretary General appalled by violent attack against Russian journalist calls for the attack to be thoroughly and quickly investigated.

19 October 2017

Injunction Prohibiting Media from Reporting on the Financial Dealings of Iceland Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson
OSCE media freedom representative concerned about ban on reporting about Icelandic bank

19 October 2017

Judicial Harassment Against Opposition Journalists in Turkey
On 10 October 2017, the Commissioner for human rights intervened before the European Court of Human Rights in cases concerning the detention of journalists and freedom of expression in Turkey

19 October 2017

"Die Welt" Correspondent in Turkey Deniz Yücel Detained
On 10 October 2017, the Commissioner for human rights intervened before the European Court of Human Rights in cases concerning the detention of journalists and freedom of expression in Turkey

19 October 2017

Turkey: Arrest of At Least 12 Employees of Cumhuriyet Newspaper
On 10 October 2017, the Commissioner for human rights intervened before the European Court of Human Rights in cases concerning the detention of journalists and freedom of expression in Turkey

19 October 2017

Ahmet Altan and Mehmet Altan Detained for Words Used on TV
On 10 October 2017, the Commissioner for human rights intervened before the European Court of Human Rights in cases concerning the detention of journalists and freedom of expression in Turkey

19 October 2017

Journalists Arrested in Major Clampdown following Failed Coup in Turkey
On 10 October 2017, the Commissioner for human rights intervened before the European Court of Human Rights in cases concerning the detention of journalists and freedom of expression in Turkey

18 October 2017

Investigative Journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia Killed by Car Bomb
APCE president strongly condemns the murder of Maltese journalist Daphne Caruana

17 October 2017

Investigative Journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia Killed by Car Bomb
OSCE media freedom representative outraged by killing of prominent journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in Malta, urges thorough investigation'

17 October 2017

Investigative Journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia Killed by Car Bomb
CoE Secretary General appalled by the brutal death of Maltese journalist and blogger Daphne Caruana Galizia, in a car bombing, calls for a thorough investigation to find those responsible for her death.

17 October 2017

Investigative Journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia Killed by Car Bomb
Reply of the Maltese authorities

17 October 2017

Investigative Journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia Killed by Car Bomb
Shocked by the murder of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, the Commissioner for Human Rights calls on authorities to thoroughly investigate the case.

12 October 2017

License for UK Community Radio Station Revoked
Response from the United Kingdom Government

11 October 2017

Far-right Militants Threatened Novosti Newspaper During Protest
Response from the Croatian authorities

5 October 2017

Turkish-Swedish Journalist Detained at Airport Following Request by Turkey
Reply from the Spanish authorities

5 October 2017

Germany: Draft Bill on Social Networks Raises Serious Free Expression Concerns
OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media warns Germany social networks law could have disproportionate effect.

3 October 2017

Vesti’s Media Office in Kyiv Raided by National Police and Military Prosecutors
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

1 October 2017

Six Journalists Detained Without Explanation
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights recalls that any restrictions on access to Internet content should be based on a clear and predictable framework affording guarantee of judicial oversight to prevent possible abuses.

1 October 2017

News Portals Shutdown by the State Regulator
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights recalls that any restrictions on access to Internet content should be based on a clear and predictable framework affording guarantee of judicial oversight to prevent possible abuses.

26 September 2017

Ukraine Blocks Russian Social Networks and Expands Economic Sanctions Against Russian Companies
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights recalls that any restrictions on access to Internet content should be based on a clear and predictable framework affording guarantee of judicial oversight to prevent possible abuses.

26 September 2017

Germany: Draft Bill on Social Networks Raises Serious Free Expression Concerns
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights recalls that any restrictions on access to Internet content should be based on a clear and predictable framework affording guarantee of judicial oversight to prevent possible abuses.

26 September 2017

Opposition and Independent News Websites Blocked
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights recalls that any restrictions on access to Internet content should be based on a clear and predictable framework affording guarantee of judicial oversight to prevent possible abuses.

26 September 2017

Video Hosting Site DailyMotion Permanently Blocked in Russia
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights recalls that any restrictions on access to Internet content should be based on a clear and predictable framework affording guarantee of judicial oversight to prevent possible abuses.

26 September 2017

Azadliq Newspaper Stops Publishing in Azerbaijan After Arrest of Financial Director
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights recalls that any restrictions on access to Internet content should be based on a clear and predictable framework affording guarantee of judicial oversight to prevent possible abuses.

26 September 2017

Turkey: Arrest of At Least 12 Employees of Cumhuriyet Newspaper
OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media welcomes the release of Kadri Gürsel and calls for release of imprisoned Cumhuriyet journalists in Turkey.

26 September 2017

A Court Orders the Blocking and Closure of Information Websites and Users’ Profiles on Twitter
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights recalls that any restrictions on access to Internet content should be based on a clear and predictable framework affording guarantee of judicial oversight to prevent possible abuses.

26 September 2017

Publication Ban Imposed on News Related to a Money Laundering Investigation in Italy Involving Erdoğan's Son
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights recalls that any restrictions on access to Internet content should be based on a clear and predictable framework affording guarantee of judicial oversight to prevent possible abuses.

26 September 2017

New Anti-terrorism Law Allows Blocking of Online Media
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights recalls that any restrictions on access to Internet content should be based on a clear and predictable framework affording guarantee of judicial oversight to prevent possible abuses.

26 September 2017

Crimea’s Prosecution Opens Criminal Probe against Journalist Mykola Semena
General Rapporteur of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) on Media Freedom and the Safety of Journalists calls for the conviction of Crimean journalist Mykola Semena to be annulled

26 September 2017

Two Turkish Journalists, Cevheri Güven and Murat Çapan, Charged with "Inciting Armed Rebellion"
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights recalls that any restrictions on access to Internet content should be based on a clear and predictable framework affording guarantee of judicial oversight to prevent possible abuses.

26 September 2017

A Reference Information Website Arbitrarily Blocked in Russia
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights recalls that any restrictions on access to Internet content should be based on a clear and predictable framework affording guarantee of judicial oversight to prevent possible abuses.

26 September 2017

Administrative Blocking of Websites "Inciting Terrorism"
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights recalls that any restrictions on access to Internet content should be based on a clear and predictable framework affording guarantee of judicial oversight to prevent possible abuses.

26 September 2017

Turkey Blocks Kurdish News Websites
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights recalls that any restrictions on access to Internet content should be based on a clear and predictable framework affording guarantee of judicial oversight to prevent possible abuses.

22 September 2017

Crimea’s Prosecution Opens Criminal Probe against Journalist Mykola Semena
OSCE Media Freedom Representative takes note of release of Ukrainian journalist Mykola Semena from house arrest, but condemns his conviction.

21 September 2017

Political Appointments to Head Spanish and Catalan Public TV Channels
Reply from the Spanish authorities

20 September 2017

Government Plan to Strongly Reduce Funding for Public Service Broadcasting
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights details the prerequisites for well-funded and strong public service media.

13 September 2017

Journalist Vladimir Otasevic Faced Insults and Death Threats
OSCE media freedom representative calls on authorities in Montenegro to swiftly investigate death threats against journalist.

13 September 2017

Criminal Case Opened against Turan Independent News Agency in Azerbaijan
PACE monitors react to release of Mehman Aliyev in Azerbaijan.

12 September 2017

Turkey: Arrest of At Least 12 Employees of Cumhuriyet Newspaper
OSCE Media Freedom Representative renews calls on Turkey to urgently release jailed journalists.

11 September 2017

Criminal Case Opened against Turan Independent News Agency in Azerbaijan
Volodymyr Ariev, PACE General Rapporteur on Media Freedom and the Safety of Journalists, welcomes the release of the Director of Turan agency Mehman Aliyev.

11 September 2017

Criminal Case Opened against Turan Independent News Agency in Azerbaijan
OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media welcomes release of Azerbaijani journalist Mehman Aliyev, calls for all charges to be dropped.

11 September 2017

Criminal Case Opened against Turan Independent News Agency in Azerbaijan
Statement by the Spokesperson of the Secretary General on the release of Mehman Aliyev

11 September 2017

Israeli-Russian Blogger Aleksandr Lapshin to Be Tried in Azerbaijan
OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media welcomes the pardon and release of Aleksandr Lapshin.

6 September 2017

Journalists Stripped of Press Accreditation and Victims of Police Violence During the G20 in Hamburg
Response by the German Federal Government

31 August 2017

Estonian Authorities Turn Down Three Requests for Accreditation from Rossiya Segodnya to Cover EU meeting
OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media urges Estonia to reconsider denied accreditation to three Russian journalists for EU meeting.

31 August 2017

Estonian Authorities Turn Down Three Requests for Accreditation from Rossiya Segodnya to Cover EU meeting
Reply from the Estonian authorities

31 August 2017

Russian Journalists Deported from Ukraine
OSCE media freedom representative calls on Ukraine to respect the work of foreign journalists

31 August 2017

Criminal Case Opened against Turan Independent News Agency in Azerbaijan
CoE Commissioner for Human Rights dismayed at last blow to media freedom in Azerbaijan: Turan news agency Director Mehman Aliyev detained and announced suspension of agency operations.

31 August 2017

Two Reporters Injured During Storming of Parliament
Reply from the Ministry of Interior of “The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia”

31 August 2017

Journalists from Macedonian A1 TV Attacked While Covering Demonstration
Reply from the Ministry of Interior of “The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia”

31 August 2017

Three Journalists from Kosovo Arrested in Skopje
Reply from the Ministry of Interior of “The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia”

31 August 2017

Five Journalists Beaten by Police in Skopje During Protests
Reply from the Ministry of Interior of “The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia”

31 August 2017

28 Media Workers Detained and Fined for Illegal Border Crossing
Reply from the Ministry of Interior of “The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia”

31 August 2017

Macedonian Journalist Faces Death Threat
Reply from the Ministry of Interior of “The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia”

31 August 2017

Macedonian Journalist Sashe Ivanovski Physically Assaulted by Deputy Prime Minister
Reply from the Ministry of Interior of “The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia”

29 August 2017

Germany: Draft Bill on Social Networks Raises Serious Free Expression Concerns
Reply by the German authorities

28 August 2017

Bulgarian Financial Supervision Commission Tries to Silence Newspapers Working on Banking Disclosures
Reply from the Government of Bulgaria

25 August 2017

Journalist Kim Wall Killed on a Civilian Submarine
Killing of Swedish journalist Kim Wall points at threats faced by journalists, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media says.

25 August 2017

Criminal Case Opened against Turan Independent News Agency in Azerbaijan
PACE co-rapporteur on Azerbaijan (Sub-Committee on Conflicts between Council of Europe Member States) calls for the immediate release of Mehman Aliyev.

25 August 2017

Criminal Case Opened against Turan Independent News Agency in Azerbaijan
CoE Secretary General calls on the authorities in Azerbaijan to respect the spirit of the country’s cooperation with the Council of Europe and to fully abide by its commitments under the European Convention on Human Rights in order to avoid yet another case of unjust deprivation of liberty which has no place in a democratic society.

16 August 2017

Ukrainian Journalist Missing in Donbass
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

11 August 2017

Ukraine Bans 38 European Journalists and Bloggers over “National Interest, Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity"
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

8 August 2017

Novaya Gazeta Correspondent to be Deported
Commissioner for Human Rights calls "on the Russian authorities to release Mr Nurmatov from the temporary detention facility and to ensure that he is provided with all the necessary procedural safeguards in the context of the administrative proceedings in question".

8 August 2017

Novaya Gazeta Correspondent to be Deported
OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media closely following appeal against deportation of journalist Ali Feruz with hope for a positive outcome.

7 August 2017

French Journalist Detained at Iraq Border, Arrested on Terror Charges
OSCE Media Freedom Representative addressed the Turkish authorities demanding immediate release of French journalist Loup Bureau and to drop charges.

3 August 2017

Polish Defence Minister Seeks Criminal Charges against Journalist for 'Coercion', 'Insult' over Exposé of Associates' Contacts
Response of the Polish Government

3 August 2017

Polish Defence Minister Seeks Criminal Charges against Journalist for 'Coercion', 'Insult' over Exposé of Associates' Contacts
OSCE media freedom representative concerned about complaint filed against journalist by Poland’s Defence Ministry

3 August 2017

France Legalises Mass Surveillance of its Citizens
The European Court of Human Rights decided to communicate to the French Government several applications lodged by journalists and lawyers which concern the French Intelligence Act of 24 July 2015. On 27 April and 4 July 2017, the Court put questions to the parties under Articles 8 (right to respect for private life and correspondence), 10 (freedom of expression) and 13 (right to an effective remedy) of the Convention.

31 July 2017

Turkey: Arrest of At Least 12 Employees of Cumhuriyet Newspaper
Cumhuriyet trial interim court decision shows urgency to drop charges and release all imprisoned Turkish journalists, says OSCE Media Freedom Representative.

28 July 2017

Ukrainian Journalist Missing in Donbass
OSCE Media Freedom Representative calls for immediate release of detained Donetsk journalist Stanislav Aseev.

25 July 2017

Turkey: Arrest of At Least 12 Employees of Cumhuriyet Newspaper
OSCE media freedom representative calls on Turkey to release imprisoned journalists

25 July 2017

Imprisonment of Two Senior Editors of the Turkish Daily Cumhuriyet, Can Dündar and Erdem Gül
OSCE media freedom representative calls on Turkey to release imprisoned journalists

21 July 2017

Failure to Punish the Perpetrators of Attack on Journalists in Berdyansk
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

20 July 2017

Journalist Pavel Sheremet Killed in Car Explosion
OSCE media freedom representative urges authorities in Ukraine and other OSCE participating States to end impunity for murders of journalists.

17 July 2017

Exiled Journalist Abducted, Detained and Faces Charges in Azerbaijan
The European Court of Human Rights began its consideration of Afgan Mukhtarli abduction case. On 8 June 2017, the Court sent a request for information to the Azerbaijani government.

17 July 2017

Ukraine Blocks Russian Social Networks and Expands Economic Sanctions Against Russian Companies
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

13 July 2017

Ongoing Impunity in the Case of Killed Journalists Andrea Rocchelli, Andrei Mironov and Wounded Photographer William Roguelon
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

5 July 2017

Russian Journalist Ashot Dzhazoyan Banned from Entering Ukraine for Three Years
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

27 June 2017

Italian Journalist Risks Being Jailed for Thirty Months for Libel
Reply from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

27 June 2017

Pressure by a Political Party to Replace a Member of the Public Broadcaster's Supervisory Board
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

20 June 2017

Exiled Journalist Abducted, Detained and Faces Charges in Azerbaijan
Volodymyr Ariev, PACE General Rapporteur on Media Freedom and the Safety of Journalists, calls for release of Afqan Mukhtarli

16 June 2017

Threat of Closure of the Public Broadcast Media Service
CoE Commissioner for Human Rights says that greater efforts are needed to enhance social cohesion and media freedom in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

12 June 2017

Turkey: Arrest of At Least 12 Employees of Cumhuriyet Newspaper
On 8 June 2017, the European Court of Human Rights communicated to the Turkish Government the case of Sabuncu and Others v. Turkey. The applicants, ten journalists from the daily newspaper Cumhuriyet placed in police custody and subsequently in pre-trial detention on suspicion of having committed offences on behalf of terrorist organisations and disseminating propaganda for them, complained about their pre-trial detention and its duration, and also submit that there has been a breach of their freedom of expression. They further allege that their detention is a sanction against them for criticising the government and amounts to politically-motivated judicial harassment. They rely in particular on Article 5 § 1, 3 and 4 (right to liberty and security / right to speedy review of the lawfulness of detention), Article 10 (freedom of expression) and Article 18 (limitation on use of restrictions on rights).

6 June 2017

Exiled Journalist Abducted, Detained and Faces Charges in Azerbaijan
Boriss Cilevics and Kerstin Lundgren, co-rapporteurs of the PACE, urge Georgian authorities to fully investigate abduction of Afqan Mukhtarli

2 June 2017

Exiled Journalist Abducted, Detained and Faces Charges in Azerbaijan
Commissioner for Human Rights "appalled by what happened to Afgan Mukhtarli, an Azerbaijani journalist and activist, who has reportedly been abducted in Georgia and forcibly taken to Azerbaijan, where he is now facing prosecution for illegal crossing of the border and smuggling".

29 May 2017

Armenian Journalist Attacked While Covering Parliamentary Elections
Reply from the Armenian authorities (Police and the Special Investigative Service of the Republic of Armenia)

12 May 2017

Attack on Office of Kathimerini in Thessaloniki
Response from the Greek authorities

12 May 2017

Pressure by Prime Minister on Public Broadcaster over Coverage
Response from the Slovak authorities

10 May 2017

Greek Journalist Arrested on Libel Charges
Response from the Greek authorities

9 May 2017

An Albanian Journalist Received Death Threats
Response of the Albanian authorities

2 May 2017

Draft Law Threatens Independence of AGERPRES News Agency
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights details the prerequisites for well-funded and strong public service media.

2 May 2017

Threat of Closure of the Public Broadcast Media Service
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights details the prerequisites for well-funded and strong public service media.

2 May 2017

Pressure by Prime Minister on Public Broadcaster over Coverage
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights details the prerequisites for well-funded and strong public service media.

2 May 2017

Romania to Eliminate Public Broadcast Fee
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights details the prerequisites for well-funded and strong public service media.

2 May 2017

Polish Law on Public Service Broadcasting Removes Guarantees of Independence
The CoE Commissioner for Human Rights details the prerequisites for well-funded and strong public service media.

18 April 2017

Threat of Closure of the Public Broadcast Media Service
OSCE Freedom of the Media Representative says that shutdown of public broadcaster in Bosnia and Herzegovina is neither a solution nor an option

7 April 2017

Two Journalists Harassed by Far-Right Wing Protesters
Reply from the Greek authorities (Ministry of Justice)

20 March 2017

Pressure by a Political Party to Replace a Member of the Public Broadcaster's Supervisory Board
Independence of the Supervisory Board of the public broadcaster is of crucial importance for the reform of public broadcasting

15 March 2017

Polish Law on Public Service Broadcasting Removes Guarantees of Independence
Reply from the Government of Poland

14 March 2017

Albanian Journalist Elvi Fundo Attacked in Tirana
Response of the Albanian authorities

14 March 2017

Journalists Arrested in Major Clampdown following Failed Coup in Turkey
Opinion of the Venice Commission on the Measures provided in the recent Emergency Decree Laws with respect to Freedom of the Media

10 March 2017

Albanian Journalist Elvi Fundo Attacked in Tirana
OSCE media freedom representative condemns beating of journalist in Albania, urges quick investigation

7 March 2017

Mehman Huseynov Sentenced to Two Years on Defamation Charges
OSCE Freedom of Media Representative and Human Rights chief call for release of blogger and human rights activist in Azerbaijan

6 March 2017

Georgian TV Channel Rustavi 2 Faces Crippling Court Measures in Civil Case
On 3 March 2017, the European Court of Human Rights suspended, under Rule 39 (interim measures), Georgia's Supreme Court’s decision to transfer ownership of Rustavi 2 TV.

3 March 2017

Mehman Huseynov Sentenced to Two Years on Defamation Charges
CoE Commissioner for Human Rights calls the two-year sentence against Mehman Huseynov in defamation case "appalling".

3 March 2017

Georgian TV Channel Rustavi 2 Faces Crippling Court Measures in Civil Case
OSCE Media Freedom Representative calls the Surpeme Court 's decision a "disappointing move and huge blow to media pluralism in Georgia".

2 March 2017

"Die Welt" Correspondent in Turkey Deniz Yücel Detained
OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media calls on Turkey to decriminalize journalistic work following arrest of Die Welt journalist

28 February 2017

New Albanian Anti-Corruption Law Threatens Media Freedom
Reply from the Government of Albania

22 February 2017

Crimea’s Prosecution Opens Criminal Probe against Journalist Mykola Semena
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

17 February 2017

The National Radio and TV Council of Ukraine Bans Broadcast of Russian TV Channel Dozhd
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

17 February 2017

Journalists Beaten by Security Guards and Local Police in Kharkiv
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

17 February 2017

Ukrainian Local Newspaper Raided, Office Sealed by the Representatives of the Local Authorities in Kivertsy
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

17 February 2017

Personal Details of Thousands of Journalists Posted on Ukrainian Website over Accreditation with Rebels
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

16 February 2017

Malta Economy Minister Issues four Libel Suits and Warrants Against Blogger Daphne Caruana Galizia
Reply from the Government of Malta

16 February 2017

Malta Economy Minister Issues four Libel Suits and Warrants Against Blogger Daphne Caruana Galizia
OSCE Representative for Media Freedom urges authorities in Malta to protect independent journalists and free expression

16 February 2017

Continuing Impunity in the Killing of the Ukrainian Investigative Journalist Georgiy Gongadze
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

16 February 2017

Harassment of Journalists Natalya Kokorina and Anna Andrievska in Crimea, Ukraine by Russian Officials
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

16 February 2017

Pro-Russia Journalist, Oles Buzyna, Gunned Down in Kyiv, Ukraine
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

15 February 2017

Turkish Emergency Decree Shuts Down 9 Media Outlets
Human Rights Commissioner : Urgent measures are needed to restore freedom of expression in Turkey

15 February 2017

Turkish Government Shuts Down 15 Pro-Kurdish Media Outlets
Human Rights Commissioner : Urgent measures are needed to restore freedom of expression in Turkey

15 February 2017

Turkey: Arrest of At Least 12 Employees of Cumhuriyet Newspaper
Human Rights Commissioner : Urgent measures are needed to restore freedom of expression in Turkey

15 February 2017

At least Twenty TV and Radio Channels Removed from Türksat, the National Satellite Operator
Human Rights Commissioner : Urgent measures are needed to restore freedom of expression in Turkey

15 February 2017

Turkey: Two Journalists Detained under State of Emergency Provisions
Human Rights Commissioner : Urgent measures are needed to restore freedom of expression in Turkey

15 February 2017

Police Raided Azadiya Welat Newspaper, at least 23 Staff Members Detained
Human Rights Commissioner : Urgent measures are needed to restore freedom of expression in Turkey

15 February 2017

Özgür Gündem Daily Shut Down and Journalists’ Homes Raided in Turkey
Human Rights Commissioner : Urgent measures are needed to restore freedom of expression in Turkey

15 February 2017

Journalists Arrested in Major Clampdown following Failed Coup in Turkey
Human Rights Commissioner : Urgent measures are needed to restore freedom of expression in Turkey

15 February 2017

Forced Closure of Crimean Tatar-Language Media Outlets
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

15 February 2017

Journalist Viacheslav Veremii Killed in Kyiv
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

15 February 2017

Senior Journalist Oleksandr Kuchynsk Killed in Donetsk, Ukraine
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

14 February 2017

Arson Attack on Ukrainian Broadcaster Inter TV
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

14 February 2017

Journalist Pavel Sheremet Killed in Car Explosion
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

14 February 2017

Ukrainian Journalist Maria Varfolomeyeva Held for over a Year in Eastern Ukraine
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

14 February 2017

Ukrainian journalist Ruslan Kotsaba Held for Nearly a Year over Allegations of ‘Treason and Obstructing the Military’
Reply from the Government of Ukraine

19 January 2017

Masterminds Still not Condemned, Ten Years After the Assassination of Journalist Hrant Dink
Ten years on, OSCE media freedom representative calls the authorities of Turkey to increase their efforts to ensure that justice is served in the case of journalist Hrant Dink

13 January 2017

The National Radio and TV Council of Ukraine Bans Broadcast of Russian TV Channel Dozhd
OSCE Freedom of the Media Reprensentative describes decision of NacRada to stop broadcasting of DozhdTV as very demaging for media pluralism in Ukraine.

13 January 2017

Poland - Journalists' Access to Parliament Restricted
Reply from the Government of Poland

11 January 2017

Mehman Huseynov Sentenced to Two Years on Defamation Charges
CoE Human Rights Commissioner expresses his worries at reported ill-treatment, arrest, fine of blogger Mehman Huseynov.

9 January 2017

Russian Editor Threatened by Government Official in Instagram Post
The Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights expressed concern that an Instagram post published by the Speaker of the Chechen Parliament intimidated Gregory Shvedov.

9 January 2017

Russian Editor Threatened by Government Official in Instagram Post
OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media calling 'unacceptable and dangerous' the behaviour by the Chechen Parliament Speaker Daudov calling for violence against the Caucasian Knot editor-in-chief Grigoriy Shvedov.

9 January 2017

Freelance Journalist and Fixer Jovo Martinovic Tried for “Being a Member of a Criminal Organization”
OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media welcomes release of Montenegrin journalist and calls for conclusion of his case

20 December 2016

Spanish Journalist based in the Netherlands Victim of Online Death Threats
Reply from the Netherlands provided by the Ministry of Security and Justice

15 December 2016

Romania to Eliminate Public Broadcast Fee
Statement by the participants at the ‘Public Service Media and Democracy’ Conference organized by the Council of Europe, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, the Czech Television and the European Broadcasting Union (10th-11th November 2016, Prague)

9 December 2016

Cyprus: Police Reporter's Car Set on Fire
OSCE representative condemns setting reporter’s car on fire in Cyprus

9 December 2016

Slovakia’s Prime Minister Uses Offensive Language towards Journalists at a Press Conference
Reply from the government of the Slovak Republic

9 December 2016

Russian Journalist Expelled from Latvia
Reply from the government of Latvia

9 December 2016

Armenian Journalists Injured in Police Violence against Media Journalists covering Street Demonstrations
Reply from the Armenian authorities

7 December 2016

Freelance Journalist and Fixer Jovo Martinovic Tried for “Being a Member of a Criminal Organization”
Reply from Montenegro provided by the Ministry of Justice

6 December 2016

Judge Attempts to Censor "Footballleaks" Inquiry
OSCE Representative for Freedom of the Media says in a statement: "Court ruling in Spain ordering El Mundo newspaper not to publish story is a threat to investigative journalism"

2 December 2016

Car of Croatian Journalists' Association President Appears to Have Been Deliberately Sabotaged
Reply from the Republic of Croatia

21 November 2016

Serbian Journalist Stevan Dojčinović Target of a Smear Campaign
Reply from the Republic of Serbia provided by the Ministry of the Interior

21 November 2016

Investigative Journalists Receive Several Death Threats, Broadcaster Claims
Reply from the Republic of Serbia provided by the Ministry of Interior

18 November 2016

UK Draft Bill on Surveillance Threatens Protection of Journalists' Sources
OSCE Representative warns of negative consequences for investigative journalism when Investigative Powers Bill becomes law in the United Kingdom

15 November 2016

Continuing Impunity in the Killing of the Ukrainian Investigative Journalist Georgiy Gongadze
Murder of Gongadze must be fully investigated, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media says, calls on authorities in Ukraine to end climate of impunity.

31 October 2016

Turkish Government Shuts Down 15 Pro-Kurdish Media Outlets
Statement from Secretary General Jagland expressing his concern about state of emergency measures and freedom of expression in Turkey

31 October 2016

Turkey: Arrest of At Least 12 Employees of Cumhuriyet Newspaper
Statement from Secretary General Jagland expressing his concern about state of emergency measures and freedom of expression in Turkey

26 October 2016

Russian Journalist Expelled from Latvia
OSCE Representative concerned about Latvian authorities’ decision to deport Russian journalist

26 October 2016

Largest Opposition Daily Suspended in Hungary
Secretary General Jagland discussed with Hungarian Justice Minister, László Trócsányi, the importance of media plurality in particular following the recent closure of the Nepszabadsag newspaper.

7 October 2016

Masterminds still not Brought to Justice, Ten Years after the Murder of Novaya Gazeta Journalist Anna Politkovskaya
Impunity for crimes committed against journalists in Russia must end, OSCE Representative says on tenth anniversary of Anna Politkovskaya’s death

22 September 2016

Sport Journalist Kyriakos Thomaidis Faces Arrest after Police Raid on Skai TV's Building
Reply from the Greek authorities

16 September 2016

Swiss Intelligence Act threatens Secrecy of Journalistic Sources
Reply by the Swiss authorities

7 September 2016

Arson Attack on Ukrainian Broadcaster Inter TV
OSCE Media Freedom Representative: Disagreement with editorial line cannot result in violence against media; safety of journalists in Ukraine must be ensured, says OSCE Representative

7 September 2016

Arson Attack on Ukrainian Broadcaster Inter TV
CoE Spokesperson: Ukraine - we underline the obligation to ensure media freedom

7 September 2016

Arson Attack on Ukrainian Broadcaster Inter TV
CoE Spokesperson: We call on the Ukrainian authorities to investigate the attacks on Inter TV and its employees

17 August 2016

Journalist Lukasz Masiak Beaten to Death
Updated information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Poland

10 August 2016

New Proposed Law Set to Increase the Power to Surveil Foreign Journalists
Reply by the German authorities

5 August 2016

Journalist Pavel Sheremet Killed in Car Explosion
Statement by Marina Kaljurand, Chair of the Committee of Ministers and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Estonia

5 August 2016

New Anti-terrorism Law Allows Blocking of Online Media
Reply from the Government of Poland

5 August 2016

Threats to the Independence of the Romanian Public Broadcaster (TVR)
Reply by the Government of Romania

27 July 2016

French Journalist at the Origin of LuxLeaks Revelations Charged in Luxembourg
Reply from the Government of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

21 July 2016

Journalist Pavel Sheremet Killed in Car Explosion
The Secretary General of the Council of Europe strongly condemns the appalling murder of journalist Pavlo Sheremet and calls on the Ukrainian authorities and law-enforcement agencies to quickly and effectively investigate this crime.

21 July 2016

Journalist Pavel Sheremet Killed in Car Explosion
OSCE Representative condemns murder of journalist Pavel Sheremet in Ukraine

21 July 2016

Journalist Mustafa Cambaz Killed in Failed Coup Attempt
OSCE Representative "deeply saddened to learn about Cambaz’ death" calls "the authorities to do their utmost to ensure journalists’ safety and free flow of information during times of crisis".

20 July 2016

News Portals Shutdown by the State Regulator
Regretting “ that journalists were once more victims of violence, at the hands of coup plotters, as well as of citizens resisting them, and that access to several news media on the internet were blocked once more”, the Commissioner for Human Rights said that he “will be closely monitoring the situation in the coming days”.

20 July 2016

Journalist Mustafa Cambaz Killed in Failed Coup Attempt
Regretting “ that journalists were once more victims of violence, at the hands of coup plotters, as well as of citizens resisting them, and that access to several news media on the internet were blocked once more”, the Commissioner for Human Rights said that he “will be closely monitoring the situation in the coming days”.

13 July 2016

Journalist Sergei Ilchenko Jailed on Extremism Charges in Moldova’s Transdniester Region
Reply from the authorities of the Republic of Moldova

12 July 2016

New Proposed Law Set to Increase the Power to Surveil Foreign Journalists
Surveillance amendments in new law in Germany pose a threat to media freedom, OSCE Representative says. She asks Bundestag to reconsider bill.

29 June 2016

Former Prime Minister Publicly Insults Two Journalists
Reply from the Republic of Slovenia

28 June 2016

Polish Journalists Targeted in Police Wiretapping, Audit Reveals
Reply from the Polish Government

21 June 2016

Draft Bill to Tighten Criminal Penalties for Defamation
Reply from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

21 June 2016

Italian Journalist Lirio Abbate Faces Hate Speech in Courtroom
Reply from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

21 June 2016

Headquarters of TV station Piazza Pulita Raided by Police
Reply from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

21 June 2016

Draft Italian Law Imposes Sanctions on Journalists who Published Wiretapping Materials
Reply from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

21 June 2016

Italian Journalists and Media Staff Face Death Threats Following Mafia Boss’ Funeral
Reply from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

20 June 2016

Radio Journalist and Presenter Found Dead in Home
OSCE Representative welcomes arrests following murder of journalist in Serbia, praises police swift action.

20 June 2016

Criminal Investigation Opened Against Journalists for Solidarity Campaign
OSCE Representative appalled by imprisonment of two journalists and a human rights activist in Turkey, urges their release

20 June 2016

Criminal Investigation Opened Against Journalists for Solidarity Campaign
CoE Commissioner for Human Rights appalled by detention of human rights defenders in Turkey will take this up with the authorities.

17 June 2016

Radio Journalist and Presenter Found Dead in Home
OSCE media freedom representative condemns murder of journalist in Serbia, calls on authorities for swift and thorough investigation.

15 June 2016

Law on News Aggregators Undermines Media Freedom Online
Law regulating news aggregators in Russia might negatively affect freedom of information on Internet, OSCE Representative says

15 June 2016

Journalists Victims of Police Violence During Demonstrations
Recent police violence against journalists during demonstrations in France disturbing, says OSCE Representative

15 June 2016

Polish Law on Public Service Broadcasting Removes Guarantees of Independence
The Secretary General welcomes the constructive dialogue with the Polish authorities on the public media legislation.

15 June 2016

Polish Law on Public Service Broadcasting Removes Guarantees of Independence
Addressing the reform of public service media which is currently underway, the Commissioner urged the Polish authorities to introduce safeguards to guarantee the independence of public service media from political influence.

10 June 2016

Poland Legalises Mass Surveillance of its Citizens
Surveillance powers too broad in Poland, according to Council of Europe’s Venice Commission

9 June 2016

'Golden Dawn' Members Violently Attacked Petros Anastassiades
Reply from the Greek authorities

9 June 2016

Police Denies TV Crew Access to Refugee Camp
Reply from the Greek authorities

7 June 2016

Polish Law on Public Service Broadcasting Removes Guarantees of Independence
Expert dialogue between the Polish Government and the Council of Europe : conclusions published

27 May 2016

Draft Bill to Tighten Criminal Penalties for Defamation
Defamation penalty in Italy needs to be considered for its effect on free expression, OSCE media representative says

26 May 2016

Trumped-up Charges to Silence an Investigative Journalist in Azerbaijan
Statement of the OSCE Representative for Media Freedom

25 May 2016

Trumped-up Charges to Silence an Investigative Journalist in Azerbaijan
Statement of the CoE Commissioner for Human Rights

18 May 2016

Sports Journalist Assaulted by President of Football Club
OSCE media freedom representative condemns attack on journalist in Albania, urges swift and thorough investigation

18 May 2016

Sports Journalist Assaulted by President of Football Club
Reply from the Government of Albania

17 May 2016

UK Draft Bill on Surveillance Threatens Protection of Journalists' Sources
Commissioner publishes Memorandum on surveillance in the UK

13 May 2016

Personal Details of Thousands of Journalists Posted on Ukrainian Website over Accreditation with Rebels
The Secretary General writes to the President of Ukraine.

13 May 2016

Attacks on the Independence of Croatian Public Broadcaster and Broadcast Regulator
The Secretary General writes to the Prime Minister of Croatia

13 May 2016

Attacks on the Independence of Croatian Public Broadcaster and Broadcast Regulator
Following his visit to Croatia, the Commissioner for human rights urges the Croatian authorities to ensure that pluralism of the public media service and the independence of the broadcast regulator are preserved and protected.

13 May 2016

Threats to the Independence of the Romanian Public Broadcaster (TVR)
The Secretary General writes to the Prime Minister of Romania.

13 May 2016

Imprisonment of Two Senior Editors of the Turkish Daily Cumhuriyet, Can Dündar and Erdem Gül
The Council of Europe Secretary General refers to the case of Can Dündar and Erdem Gül in his address to the Committee of Ministers on 11 May 2016.

13 May 2016

Brutal Physical Attack on Freelancer Željko Peratović
Following his visit to Croatia, the Commissioner for human rights expresses his concern about the inadequate response by the authorities to the reported cases of physical attacks, death threats and intimidation against journalists.

12 May 2016

Personal Details of Thousands of Journalists Posted on Ukrainian Website over Accreditation with Rebels
OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media expresses concern about journalists’ safety in Ukraine

12 May 2016

Murder of Azerbaijani Journalist Rasim Aliyev
OSCE Representative welcomes convictions for murder of journalist in Azerbaijan

11 May 2016

Chief Editor Anne Brumagne Dismissed for Criticizing a Restructuring Plan that Puts Business above Journalism
Response from the Flemish Community

2 May 2016

Two-year Prison Sentences for Cumhuriyet Journalists Ceyda Karan and Hikmet Çetinkaya
OSCE Representative condemns prison sentences against Cumhuriyet journalists in Turkey, urges to ensure their safety

2 May 2016

Greek Journalist Brutally Attacked during Public Rally
Reply from the Greek authorities

2 May 2016

Journalists Detained and Barred from Entering Idomeni to Report on Treatment of Refugees
Reply from the Greek authorities

2 May 2016

Police Assault Against a Photographer in Greece
Reply from the Greek authorities

29 April 2016

Journalists Working for RTL Info and France 3 Attacked in Molenbeek
Reply from the Government of Belgium

29 April 2016

Palestinian Journalist Salama Attaallah Assaulted While Covering Muslim Fair in Brussels
Reply from the Government of Belgium

29 April 2016

Journalists Arrested and Forced to Delete Material During Anti-TTIP Event
Reply from the Government of Belgium

29 April 2016

Chief Editor Anne Brumagne Dismissed for Criticizing a Restructuring Plan that Puts Business above Journalism
Reply from the Government of Belgium

18 April 2016

Attacks on the Independence of Croatian Public Broadcaster and Broadcast Regulator
Reply from the Government of Croatia

4 April 2016

Several Vehicles Belonging to POP TV Vandalised in Ljubljana
Reply from the Government of Slovenia

18 March 2016

Journalists Levan Sutidze, Irakli Kiknavelidze and Nino Macharashvili Attacked in Tbilisi
Reply from the Government of Georgia

17 March 2016

Cumhuriyet Journalist Canan Coşkun Faces 23 Years in Prison for Alleged Insult
The Venice Commission recommends that Article 301 of the Turkish Penal Code (Degrading Turkish Nation, State of Turkish Republic, the Organs and Institutions of the State) be redrafted and further amended with the aim of making all the notions used in it clear and specific. Application of this provision should also be limited to statements inciting to violence and hatred.

17 March 2016

Turkish Cartoonists Bahadır Baruter and Özer Aydoğan Found Guilty of Insulting President Erdoğan
The Venice Commission suggests that Article 299 of the Turkish Penal Code (insulting the President of Republic) be repealed to avoid further violations of the freedom of expression.

15 March 2016

TV Journalist Eni Shehu Attacked by the Director of the National Theatre
Response of the Albanian authorities

15 March 2016

Newspaper Editor Prosecuted for Insulting the President over Reports about a Judicial Corruption Probe
The Venice Commission suggests that Article 299 of the Turkish Penal Code (insulting the President of Republic) be repealed to avoid further violations of the freedom of expression.

10 March 2016

Attacks on the Independence of Croatian Public Broadcaster and Broadcast Regulator
Independence of public broadcaster and broadcast regulator must be respected, says OSCE Representative.

10 March 2016

Journalists and Human Rights Activists Attacked in Ingushetia
Coe Human Rights Commissioner Muižnieks says that Russia must shed full light on attacks against journalists and human rights defenders in Ingushetia.

10 March 2016

Journalists and Human Rights Activists Attacked in Ingushetia
OSCE Representative condemns attack on journalists in Russian Federation, calls for swift investigation.

10 March 2016

Journalists and Human Rights Activists Attacked in Ingushetia
CoE Secretary General declares that violence against journalists is unacceptable and welcomes Russia's announcement of an investigation into Ingushetia attack.

10 March 2016

Imprisonment of Two Senior Editors of the Turkish Daily Cumhuriyet, Can Dündar and Erdem Gül
The Monitoring Committee of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe expresses its serious concern at recent developments in Turkey with respect to restrictions on media freedom and access to pluralistic information, challenges to the decisions of the Constitutional Court.

9 March 2016

Zaman Media Group Seized by Authorities
PACE Monitoring Committee expresses serious concern at recent developments in Turkey with respect to restrictions on media freedom and access to pluralistic information.

5 March 2016

Zaman Media Group Seized by Authorities
CoE Secretary General considers that the court decision to appoint trustees to Zaman group is yet another worrying development with regard to media freedom in Turkey.

5 March 2016

Zaman Media Group Seized by Authorities
PACE President expresses concern about the Istanbul Court's decision undermining media freedom

4 March 2016

Zaman Media Group Seized by Authorities
CoE Human Rights Commissioner Muižnieks deplores new case of judicial harassment against media in Turkey.

4 March 2016

Zaman Media Group Seized by Authorities
OSCE Representative on Media Freedom calls on Turkey to refrain from acts of intimidation against media, following appointment of trustees to run Zaman newspaper.

4 March 2016

Gojko Raičević Regularly Targeted by Authorities in Montenegro
Reply from the Ministry of Interior of Montenegro

3 March 2016

Imprisonment of Two Senior Editors of the Turkish Daily Cumhuriyet, Can Dündar and Erdem Gül
Secretary General welcomes the release of Can Dündar and Erdem Gül in his address to the Committee of Ministers

26 February 2016

Poland Legalises Mass Surveillance of its Citizens
Reply from the Polish Government

26 February 2016

Imprisonment of Two Senior Editors of the Turkish Daily Cumhuriyet, Can Dündar and Erdem Gül
Secretary General Jagland welcomes the release of Can Dündar and Erdem Gül.

25 February 2016

Belgian Journalist Assaulted Live on Air at the Cologne Carnival
Reply from the German authorities

16 February 2016

Poland Legalises Mass Surveillance of its Citizens
Coe Commissioner for Human Rights is concerned that the provisions of the new surveillance legislation are expanding the powers of police and special services without establishing the corresponding safeguards for the protection of the right to privacy, journalistic sources and information covered by professional secrecy.

16 February 2016

Polish Law on Public Service Broadcasting Removes Guarantees of Independence
Upon return of his visit to Poland, Coe Commissioner for Human rights expresses concerns at the adoption in December 2015 of transitional legislation in the field of public service media, pending the adoption of a wider reform in this area, expected before the summer 2016.

11 February 2016

Molotov Cocktails and Gun Attacks on Yeni Şafak and Yeni Akit Newspapers
"Attacks against media outlets in Turkey unacceptable", says OSCE Media Freedom Representative

11 February 2016

Poland Legalises Mass Surveillance of its Citizens
The Monitoring Committee of the Parliamentary Assembly requested the opinion of the Venice Commission on the Polish draft law amending the Law on Police.

26 January 2016

Journalist Stoyan Tonchev Brutally Attacked
OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media condemns violent attack on journalist in Bulgaria, urges investigation

25 January 2016

Polish Law on Public Service Broadcasting Removes Guarantees of Independence
Response of the Government of Poland

21 January 2016

Trumped-up Charges to Silence an Investigative Journalist in Azerbaijan
CoE Commissioner for Human Rights Nils Muižnieks intervenes before the European Court of Human Rights on the case of Khadija Ismayilova

14 January 2016

Polish Law on Public Service Broadcasting Removes Guarantees of Independence
CoE Secretary General mentions changes to the Polish Radio and Television Broadcasting Act in his address to the Committee of Ministers

14 January 2016

Imprisonment of Two Senior Editors of the Turkish Daily Cumhuriyet, Can Dündar and Erdem Gül
CoE Secretary General mentions the continuing detention of Can Dündar and Erdem Gül in his allocution to the Committee of Ministers about the outcome of the meeeting of the informal working group on freedom of expression in Turkey

12 January 2016

Cumhuriyet Journalist Canan Coşkun Faces 23 Years in Prison for Alleged Insult
Response from the Turkish Government

11 January 2016

Journalist Beyza Kural Briefly Detained and Threatened with Violence by Police While Covering Protest
Response of the Turkish Gouvernment

11 January 2016

'Today's Zaman' Journalist Bülent Keneş Arrested
Response of the Turkish Government

8 January 2016

ABC News Cameraman Attacked and Detained for Three Hours by Police
Response of the Ministry of Interior of Albania

6 January 2016

Polish Law on Public Service Broadcasting Removes Guarantees of Independence
OSCE Media Freedom Representative urges Poland’s government to withdraw proposed changes to the selection of management in public service broadcasters

5 January 2016

Polish Law on Public Service Broadcasting Removes Guarantees of Independence
Call by the CoE Commissioner for Human Rights on Polish President not to sign new Media Law

5 January 2016

Polish Law on Public Service Broadcasting Removes Guarantees of Independence
Coe Secretary General Thorbjørn Jagland expresses his particular concern with regard to the new Polish law on public service broadcasting and the impact it may have on the integrity and independence of public service media.

15 December 2015

Imprisonment of Two Senior Editors of the Turkish Daily Cumhuriyet, Can Dündar and Erdem Gül
Statement of the Permanent Representative of Turkey to the Council of Europe to the 1242nd meeting of the Ministrers' Deputies

15 December 2015

UK Draft Bill on Surveillance Threatens Protection of Journalists' Sources
Response of the United Kingdom Government

15 December 2015

Slovenian Investigative Journalist Anuška Delić Charged over “Intelligence Material”
On 20 October 2015, the Act amending article 260 of the Slovenian Criminal Code entered into force. According the amended article, an individual disclosing classified information does no longer incur criminal liability provided that public interest in disclosing classified information outweighs that in maintaining its secrecy.

7 December 2015

Imprisonment of Two Senior Editors of the Turkish Daily Cumhuriyet, Can Dündar and Erdem Gül
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice)

3 December 2015

Imprisonment of Two Senior Editors of the Turkish Daily Cumhuriyet, Can Dündar and Erdem Gül
CoE Secretary General focuses on the arrest of Can Dündar and Erdem Gül in his address to the Committee of Ministers

1 December 2015

Kurdish Daily Attacked, Doors Broken and 32 Journalists Interrogated
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Interior)

30 November 2015

Imprisonment of Two Senior Editors of the Turkish Daily Cumhuriyet, Can Dündar and Erdem Gül
Hürriyet Daily News article quoting the statement by the spokesperson of European Council Secretary General Thorbjørn Jagland

30 November 2015

Two Turkish Journalists, Cevheri Güven and Murat Çapan, Charged with "Inciting Armed Rebellion"
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice)

27 November 2015

Imprisonment of Two Senior Editors of the Turkish Daily Cumhuriyet, Can Dündar and Erdem Gül
Statement by Nils Muiznieks, CoE Commissioner for Human Rights

27 November 2015

Imprisonment of Two Senior Editors of the Turkish Daily Cumhuriyet, Can Dündar and Erdem Gül
Ingebjørg Godskesen and Nataša Vuckovic, co-rapporteurs for PACE’s post-monitoring dialogue with Turkey question arrests of leading journalists

27 November 2015

Imprisonment of Two Senior Editors of the Turkish Daily Cumhuriyet, Can Dündar and Erdem Gül
OSCE Representative condemns arrest of journalists Can Dündar and Erdem Gül, urges Turkey not to proceed with charges

25 November 2015

Turkey: Seizure of Media Holding, with Police Raids and Temporary Closure of Two Major Television Channels, Days Prior to Elections
Response from the Turkish Government

24 November 2015

Serbian Journalist Predrag Blagojević Assaulted by Police at a Music Festival over Identification
Reply from the Republic of Serbia provided by the Ministry of Interior

17 November 2015

Detention of the Vice News Fixer Mohammed Ismael Rasool
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice)

17 November 2015

Hürriyet Journalist Ahmet Hakan Threatened and Attacked
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice)

16 November 2015

Police Used Teargas Against a Group of About 30 Journalists
Reply of the Ministry of Interior of the Goverment of Montenegro

12 November 2015

Three Media Staff Assaulted at Pegida Rally
Response of the German Government (Ministry of the Interior of the Free State of Saxony)

12 November 2015

Journalist Attacked in Paris by Members or Supporters of the Jewish Defense League
OSCE Representative raises concern over attack of Buzzfeed journalist and threats to storm AFP offices in France, welcomes swift police action.

12 November 2015

Serbian Investigative Journalist Ivan Ninić Suffers Brutal Attack
Response of the Serbian Government (Ministry of Interior)

10 November 2015

UK Draft Bill on Surveillance Threatens Protection of Journalists' Sources
OSCE media freedom representative urges caution and further consideration of new Investigatory Powers Bill in the United Kingdom

30 October 2015

Turkey: Seizure of Media Holding, with Police Raids and Temporary Closure of Two Major Television Channels, Days Prior to Elections
OSCE Representative condemns police raid against media outlets in Turkey, calls on authorities to restore and ensure media pluralism

30 October 2015

Turkey: Seizure of Media Holding, with Police Raids and Temporary Closure of Two Major Television Channels, Days Prior to Elections
The Commissioner for Human Rights Nils Muižnieks condemns the Turkish police’s violent raids against the media

30 October 2015

Turkey: Seizure of Media Holding, with Police Raids and Temporary Closure of Two Major Television Channels, Days Prior to Elections
Statement by the Spokesperson of the Secretary General

23 October 2015

Spanish Public Security Law Threatens Freedom of Press
PACE Monitoring Committee asks the Venice Commission for an opinion on the Citizen Security Law.

22 October 2015

Journalist Seyithan Akyüz Sentenced to more than 22 Years
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Turkey)

22 October 2015

Art and Literature Journalist Erdal Süsem Serving Life Sentence in Turkey
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Turkey)

22 October 2015

Left-Wing Female Journalist Hatice Duman Serving Life-Time Imprisonment in Turkey
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Turkey)

22 October 2015

Journalist Kenan Karavil Sentenced to more than 19 Years
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Turkey)

22 October 2015

Alawite Journalist Miktat Algül Sentenced to 61 Years in Turkey
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Turkey

22 October 2015

Journalist Mustafa Gök Serving Life Sentence in Turkey
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Turkey)

22 October 2015

Journalist Ali Konar Sentenced to over 7 Years in Jail
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Turkey)

22 October 2015

Investigative Journalist Mehmet Baransu Arrested
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Turkey)

22 October 2015

Journalist Hidayet Karaca Arrested
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Turkey)

22 October 2015

Journalist Erol Zavar, Suffering from a Cancer, is Serving Life Sentence in Turkey
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Turkey)

22 October 2015

Dutch Journalist Frederike Geerdink Deported by Turkey
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Turkey)

22 October 2015

Turkish Cartoonists Bahadır Baruter and Özer Aydoğan Found Guilty of Insulting President Erdoğan
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Turkey)

22 October 2015

Police Violence Against a Journalist Covering Protests in Turkey
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Turkey)

22 October 2015

Newspaper Editor Prosecuted for Insulting the President over Reports about a Judicial Corruption Probe
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Turkey)

22 October 2015

Dutch Journalist Charged with ‘Terrorism’ in Turkey
Response of the Turkish Government (information provided by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Turkey)

14 October 2015

'Today's Zaman' Journalist Bülent Keneş Arrested
Statement by CoE Secretary General Thorbjørn Jagland

1 October 2015

Hürriyet Journalist Ahmet Hakan Threatened and Attacked
Secretary General Jagland condemns attack on Hürriyet journalist Ahmet Hakan

1 October 2015

Hürriyet Journalist Ahmet Hakan Threatened and Attacked
PACE President expresses concern at attack on Hürriyet columnist

1 October 2015

Hürriyet Journalist Ahmet Hakan Threatened and Attacked
OSCE Media Freedom Representative condemns attack on journalist Ahmet Hakan, and calls for improved safety of journalists in Turkey

24 September 2015

Georgian TV Channel Rustavi 2 Faces Crippling Court Measures in Civil Case
Response of the Georgian Government

17 September 2015

Ukraine Bans 38 European Journalists and Bloggers over “National Interest, Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity"
Statement by the Commissioner for Human Rights

17 September 2015

Ukraine Bans 38 European Journalists and Bloggers over “National Interest, Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity"
Statement by the Spokesperson of the Secretary General on Ukraine's sanctions against media

15 September 2015

Turkish Special Operations Team Attacks Journalists Covering the Transfer of Injured Police Officer to a Hospital
Response of the Turkish Government

9 September 2015

Serbian Investigative Journalist Ivan Ninić Suffers Brutal Attack
Statement of the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights

8 September 2015

Journalist Fired over Tweets Critical of Erdoğan
Response of the Turkish Government

1 September 2015

Trumped-up Charges to Silence an Investigative Journalist in Azerbaijan
Statement of the OSCE Representative for Media Freedom

1 September 2015

Trumped-up Charges to Silence an Investigative Journalist in Azerbaijan
Statement by the Spokesperson of Secretary General Jagland on the verdict in the case of Khadija Ismayilova in Azerbaijan

1 September 2015

Trumped-up Charges to Silence an Investigative Journalist in Azerbaijan
PACE President deplores Khadija Ismayilova sentence in Azerbaijan

28 August 2015

Murder of Azerbaijani Journalist Rasim Aliyev
Comments of the Government of Azerbaijan

28 August 2015

Attacks and Intimidation on Journalists Covering Workers’ Strikes in Turkey
Response of the Turkish Government

28 August 2015

Meydan TV Director Emin Milli Threatened for Critical Reporting on European Games
Comments of the Government of Azerbaijan

27 August 2015

DIHA Journalist Cüneyt Yavuz Injured in Tear Gas Canister Attack During Clashes Between Police and Protesters
Response of the Turkish Government

27 August 2015

Turkey’s Chief Prosecutor Seeks 7.5 Year Jail Term Against 18 Journalists over Siege Picture
Response of the Turkish Government

27 August 2015

LGBT Journalist Beaten by Police Officers
Response of the Turkish Government

25 August 2015

Serbian Journalist Predrag Blagojević Assaulted by Police at a Music Festival over Identification
OSCE media freedom representative calls for full investigation into police attack on journalist in Serbia

21 August 2015

Trumped-up Charges to Silence an Investigative Journalist in Azerbaijan
Statement of the CoE Commissioner for Human Rights

11 August 2015

Journalists Beaten and Arrested while Covering Protest Demonstration
Reply from the Armenian authorities

11 August 2015

Murder of Azerbaijani Journalist Rasim Aliyev
OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media condemns killing of journalist in Azerbaijan, calls on President Aliyev to ensure safety of journalists and free media

10 August 2015

Murder of Azerbaijani Journalist Rasim Aliyev
Secretary General Thorbjørn Jagland condemns attack on Azerbaijani journalist Rasim Aliyev

4 August 2015

Two Journalists Targeted by a Judicial Inquiry for Treason
OSCE representative warns about impact on free media of criminal investigation of Netzpolitik.org journalists in Germany

3 August 2015

Journalist Sergei Ilchenko Jailed on Extremism Charges in Moldova’s Transdniester Region
Response of the Government of the Republic of Moldova

9 July 2015

Journalist Lukasz Masiak Beaten to Death
Response of the Government of Poland

30 June 2015

Electoral Coverage under Political Control in Spain
Response of the Spanish Authorities

24 June 2015

French Journalist at the Origin of LuxLeaks Revelations Charged in Luxembourg
Letter from the Minister for Foreign and European Affairs of Luxembourg to the Secretary General of the Council of Europe (in French)

23 June 2015

Journalists Beaten and Arrested while Covering Protest Demonstration
Statement of the Human Rights Commissioner on protests in Armenia : media should be able to work in a safe and free environment

23 June 2015

Journalists Beaten and Arrested while Covering Protest Demonstration
Statement by the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media: 'Safety of journalists must be ensured at all times, OSCE Representative says, following attacks on journalists in Armenia'

1 June 2015

Journalist Seymour Hazi Sentenced on Hooliganism Charges
Reply by the Government of Azerbaijan

1 June 2015

Trumped-up Charges to Silence an Investigative Journalist in Azerbaijan
Reply by the Government of Azerbaijan

1 June 2015

Journalist Nijat Aliyev Sentenced to 10 Years in Jail in Baku
Reply by the Government of Azerbaijan

1 June 2015

Senior Journalist Araz Guliyev Sentenced to Eight Years in Prison in Azerbaijan
Reply by the Government of Azerbaijan

1 June 2015

Trumped-up Charges and Trial Without Due Process to Silence an Azerbaijani Journalist
Reply by the Government of Azerbaijan

1 June 2015

Independent Senior Journalist Parviz Hashimli Jailed in Azerbaijan
Reply by the Government of Azerbaijan

1 June 2015

Media Freedom Activist Emin Huseynov Charged with Tax Evasion and Abuse of Power
Reply by the Government of Azerbaijan

21 May 2015

Slovenian Investigative Journalist Anuška Delić Charged over “Intelligence Material”
Government approves the draft amendments to the Criminal Code

20 May 2015

France Legalises Mass Surveillance of its Citizens
The Commissioner for Human Rights addressed the French Senate on surveillance bill

15 May 2015

Two Danish Journalists Prosecuted for Exposing a Public Health Hazard
Response from the Danish Government

15 May 2015

Spanish Public Security Law Threatens Freedom of Press
Response of the Spanish Authorities

12 May 2015

Administrative Blocking of Websites "Inciting Terrorism"
Reply by the French authorities

12 May 2015

France Legalises Mass Surveillance of its Citizens
Reply by the French authorities

6 May 2015

France Legalises Mass Surveillance of its Citizens
Press Release from OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media

28 April 2015

French Journalist at the Origin of LuxLeaks Revelations Charged in Luxembourg
OSCE Representative on the Freedom of Media: Journalists should not face criminal charges for their work

22 April 2015

Macedonian Journalist Faces Death Threat
Statement by Commissioner Nils Muižnieks

16 April 2015

Pro-Russia Journalist, Oles Buzyna, Gunned Down in Kyiv, Ukraine
Council of Europe Secretary General Thorbjørn Jagland: 'Attacks on journalists are unacceptable, whether in conflict or peace. Killing of Oles Buzyna in Ukraine must be fully investigated.'

13 April 2015

Slovenian Investigative Journalist Anuška Delić Charged over “Intelligence Material”
Response by Slovenian Minister of Justice to Council of Europe Secretary General

13 April 2015

France Legalises Mass Surveillance of its Citizens
Statement by Commissioner of Human Rights

2 April 2015

Forced Closure of Crimean Tatar-Language Media Outlets
Thorbjørn Jagland urges Crimean Tatar TV station to continue

2 April 2015

Forced Closure of Crimean Tatar-Language Media Outlets
Commissioner Muižnieks calls for unhindered broadcasting of ATR TV

22 January 2015

Investigative Journalist Sergei Reznik Handed a 3-Year Jail Term for ‘Insults’ Charges in Russia
OSCE Representative denounces conviction of independent journalist and blogger in Russia
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Thematic factsheets Thematic factsheets

July 2018 Factsheet on media coverage of elections


July 2018 Factsheet on hate speech, apology of violence, promoting negationism and condoning terrorism: the limits to the freedom of expression


July 2018 Factsheet on freedom of expression and respect for religious beliefs: striking the right balance


July 2018 Factsheet on the freedom of the press and the protection of one's reputation


July  2018 Factsheet on mass surveillance


View all thematic factsheets
Thematic factsheets Thematic factsheets

July 2018 Factsheet on media coverage of elections


July 2018 Factsheet on hate speech, apology of violence, promoting negationism and condoning terrorism: the limits to the freedom of expression


July 2018 Factsheet on freedom of expression and respect for religious beliefs: striking the right balance


July 2018 Factsheet on the freedom of the press and the protection of one's reputation


July  2018 Factsheet on mass surveillance


View all thematic factsheets
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