The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has condemned police attacks against local and foreign journalists covering civilian protests in Minsk and across Belarus following the recent presidential elections.
In a statement, it says it is also supporting calls by journalists at BTRC, the state Television and Radio Company, to be allowed to report on events objectively and independently. The EBU believes the ability to cover political events without political pressure or threats is a cornerstone of journalistic integrity and independence and of public service media values.
EBU DG Noel Curran commented: “Against the backdrop of recent events, the EBU strongly demands that freedom of expression in Belarus is respected as a fundamental human right provided in numerous international instruments, including Art 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Art 19 the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and Art 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).
“Journalists have to be free to do their job without fear of violence and intimidation and we are deeply concerned by recent incidents in Belarus. The people in Belarus have the right to receive truthful information on what is happening in their country. We urge the government to ensure freedom of expression and safety of journalists”.
