Human rights chief calls on Russia to end repression as journalist arrests reach all-time high
Volker Turk speak he is concerned about the growing number of journalists being charged, convicted and jailed for independent reporting, in what appears to be an increased crackdown on dissenting voices.
He described the ongoing attacks on freedom of expression and the criminalization of independent journalism in Russia as “very worrying.”
“The increased repression of independent work by journalists must end immediately and The right to information – an important component of freedom of expression – needs to be maintainedhe say.
Criminal charges, long sentences
The number of journalists jailed in Russia has reached an all-time high since the country began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the Office of the Russian High Commissioner said. OHCHRreport.
At least 30 journalists are currently detained with many criminal charges including terrorism, extremism, disseminating false information about the armed forces, espionage, treason, extortion, violating civil rights, violating the law on foreign agents, inciting public disturbances and illegally possessing weapons. explosives or drugs.
Twelve people are serving sentences ranging from 5 1/2 to 22 years in prison. These include Vladimir Kara Murzaa contributing columnist The Washington Post newspaper in the United States, which on Monday was awarded the prestigious Pulitzer Prize for commentary.
Control the story
Since March, at least seven journalists have faced administrative or criminal charges, specifically for criticizing Russia’s actions in Ukraine or for alleged links to the late opposition politician Alexey Navalny and his Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK), which is considered ‘extremist’. ‘ in 2021.
“The Russian authorities seem to be trying to further strengthen their control of the narrative, both on domestic issues and on the conduct of hostilities in Ukraine,” Mr. Türk said.
“The result is, People in Russia have increasingly limited access to non-state information and opinionsThis hinders their ability to benefit from diverse sources and make informed decisions on important public issues.”
Release jailed journalists
The UN human rights chief also expressed concern about the frequent use of broad legislative frameworks to combat terrorism and extremism, and called on authorities to amend the law.
“Journalists must be able to work in a safe environment without fear of reprisal – in accordance with Russia’s international human rights obligations,” he said. “I call on the government to immediately drop the charges against the journalists detained simply for doing their workand release them.”
