Shortly after President Vladimir Putin began his fifth term in office, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Volker Türk, expressed concern about the growing number of journalists charged, convicted and imprisoned for their independent reporting, in what appears to be an intensification of the repression of dissident voices.
“The intensification of repression against the independent work of journalists must stop immediately, and the right to inform, a key component of the right to freedom of expression, must be respected,” he declared.
Criminal charges, long sentences
The number of journalists imprisoned in Russia has reached an unprecedented number since the beginning of its large-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, OHCHR reported.
At least 30 journalists are currently arrested on various criminal charges including terrorism, extremism, knowingly disseminating false information about the armed forces, espionage, treason, extortion, violation of the rights of individuals, violation of the provisions of the law on foreign agents, inciting mass riots and illegal possession of explosives or drugs.
Of the 30, 12 of them are serving sentences of between five and a half years and 22 years in prison. Among them is Vladimir Kara-Murza, columnist for the American newspaper Washington Postwhich on Monday was awarded the prestigious Pulitzer Prize for Commentary.
Controlling the words
Since March, at least seven journalists have faced administrative or criminal charges, particularly for criticizing Russia’s actions in Ukraine or for alleged links to the late opposition politician Alexey Navalny, and his Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK), described as “extremist.” ” in 2021.
“Russian authorities appear to be attempting to further tighten control of the narrative, both around internal issues and the conduct of hostilities in Ukraine,” Türk said.
“As a result, The Russian population has increasingly restricted access to non-state information and points of viewwhich hinders their ability to benefit from diverse sources and make fully informed decisions on matters of vital public interest.”
Freedom for imprisoned journalists
The UN human rights chief also expressed concern about the frequent use of the broad legislative framework to combat terrorism and extremism, and urged authorities to amend the legislation.
“Journalists must be able to work in a safe environment, without fear of reprisals“in line with Russia’s international human rights obligations,” he said. “I call on the authorities to immediately drop charges against journalists detained solely for doing their work, and to release them.”
Add Comment