News Agency Patria condemns the ban on Avdo Avdić's entry into Croatia, expects reaction from BiH and EU institutions

(Patria) - News Agency Patria expresses serious concern and protest due to the decision of the authorities of the Republic of Croatia to ban investigative journalist and editor of the portal Istraga.ba, Avdo Avdić (a citizen of BiH), from entering the country, with the explanation that he is on the "national register of persons banned from entering the country".

We consider this measure to be an unacceptable form of pressure on media freedom and investigative journalism, and a serious blow to the fundamental democratic principles and values on which the European Union is based.

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NATIONAL SECURITY Avdo Avdić banned from entering Croatia

(Patria) - Journalist Avdo Avdić was denied entry today when attempting to enter the Republic of Croatia at the Gradiška border crossing, with the explanation that his name is on the register of persons banned from entering the country because they threaten national security. Scan

We expect the institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina to react immediately and stand in defense of the rights and dignity of their citizens. We also expect a prompt and adequate reaction from the European Union.

We call on domestic and international journalists' associations to decisively oppose such attempts to stifle media freedoms.

News Agency Patria reminds that the protection of journalists and freedom of expression is a fundamental prerequisite for any democratic state. Finally, we ask ourselves who is next and does the entire story about BiH's European integration make any sense if journalists from our country are denied the right to enter an EU member state!