EU Delegation on attack on Trifunović and Morača: Freedom of media and protection of journalists among 14 priorities from European Commission Opinion

SARAJevo, (Patria) - Attacks on journalists Aleksandar Trifunović and Nikola Morača, shortly after they criticized the criminalization of defamation in Republika Srpska, are extremely concerning. These attacks represent another example of the difficult conditions under which journalists work in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the hostile environment that exists for media freedom in the country, according to the reaction of the European Union Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina regarding the attacks on the mentioned journalists.

"The EU Delegation to BiH expects swift institutional and judicial measures from the authorities of Republika Srpska. We also expect the authorities of Republika Srpska to implement measures to strengthen media freedom and prevent similar incidents in the future. Furthermore, we expect the highest officials of Republika Srpska to refrain from inappropriate comments that contribute to creating an environment of fear for journalists. Freedom of expression and media are fundamental principles and values expected of any country with an EU membership perspective. In any democratic society, journalists must be able to perform their important work without fear or intimidation," stated the EU Delegation.

They add that "guaranteeing freedom of expression and media and the protection of journalists are among the 14 key priorities for Bosnia and Herzegovina, as stated in the European Commission's Opinion on the country's application for EU membership".

"For progress on the European path, essential prerequisites include strengthening freedom of expression and media freedom, as well as ensuring an appropriate institutional response to threats against journalists," concluded the EU Delegation.