Nelson to journalists in BiH: Be strong and brave

(Patria) - The US Embassy continues to support media freedom and provide assistance to the development of professional and independent media in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ambassador Eric Nelson said on World Press Freedom Day, celebrated on May 3, and called on authorities to create an environment in which media can function without pressure, intimidation and fear.

“My team and I are fully aware of the difficulties many journalists in BiH face as they report on various issues and work to hold authorities accountable and inform citizens,” Nelson emphasized, wishing media professionals in BiH to be “strong and brave” as they play one of the most important roles in a democratic society.

A joint message on World Press Freedom Day, which has been celebrated for 30 years, was also sent by the Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH Kathleen Kavalec and the Ambassador of Sweden Johanna Stromquist, warning of the growing number of challenges faced by journalists in BiH.

“This should concern all of us because media freedoms and freedom of speech are the foundations of democracy. Especially in times of crisis. People need access to reliable information,” Kavalec and Stromquist pointed out.

“Authorities must ensure that journalists have access to accurate information and can report freely without fear. We encourage all people to join forces to respect and protect freedom of expression and media freedom,” they conclude.