OSCE Representative Désir condemns the attack vandalising the newspaper Afrika’s office and calls for immediate protection of journalists in Cyprus
The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Harlem Désir condemned recent attacks against Turkish Cypriot newspaper Afrika’s Office in Nicosia, on January 25.
According to reports, on 22 January the daily Afrika was attacked by a group gathering in front of the newspaper building, following a story published by Afrika on Sunday.
“I condemn the violent attack against Afrika. Vandalism and violence against a newspaper is never acceptable. This is an attack on freedom of the media and freedom of expression on the island. Journalists and their important work must be protected,” Désir said.
In a public speech on January 21st, President of Turkey called “his Cypriot brothers and sisters” to take “appropriate action” against the newspaper who published an “impertinent headline” on the military action in Afrin, Syria.
“Attempts to intimidate journalists are inadmissible. Journalists must be able to express their views freely. Moreover they should be able to work without fear. Ensuring safety of journalists must be a priority everywhere in the OSCE region,” Désir said.
“I will continue to support press freedom and journalistic communities in Cyprus,” said the Representative.
Désir also noted that the Cyprus Journalists' Union, Basin-Sen/Press Workers’ Union, and the Turkish Cypriot Journalists’ Union all have condemned the attack.
The Office of the OSCE Representative of the Freedom the Media is actively working in Cyprus since the launch of the project "the Cyprus Dialogue”, in March 2017. The Office started the dialogue with representatives of Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot journalists in an effort to assist in improving the development of ethical standards and self-regulation mechanisms in Cyprus.
The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments.
Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe
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