OSCE concerned about amendments to the Law on Public Order and Peace in RS

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Harlem Désir and Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), Bruce G. Berton, expressed concern regarding the amendments to the Law on Public Order and Peace in the Republika Srpska (RS), the OSCE announced.

They warned that the Law on Amendments to the Law on Public Order and Peace, adopted by the RS Government on March 28, which would introduce a misdemeanour of unauthorised photographing or recording that obstructs officials while performing their duties, prescribing fines of up to 1,500 BAM or imprisonment of up to 60 days, could negatively affect freedom of expression and public assembly.

The National Assembly of the RS will vote on this Law at a session on April 16.

"Such provisions, if adopted, could endanger the environment in which media professionals operate, which is already challenging. They are contrary to international standards of media freedom. Journalists must work in a safe working and legal environment in order to report on matters of public interest, including street demonstrations, protests and the work of police authorities. I call on the National Assembly of the Republika Srpska to refrain from adopting these amendments to the Law and instead engage in constructive discussion with the media community and other relevant stakeholders to find an appropriate solution," said Désir.

Berton believes that a broader concept of consultations is necessary.

"Given the restrictive nature and severity of the proposed sanctions in the draft amendments to the Law, the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina considers that a broader process of consultations with relevant stakeholders, including the public, is necessary. Journalists must be able to report from events of public interest without fear. Furthermore, in accordance with international standards for the protection of human rights, every person should have the right to attend, observe and record a peaceful public gathering, which includes the right to record the activities of police officers. The OSCE Mission to BiH stands ready to provide support to the competent authorities regarding this matter," Berton stated.

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media offered the legal assistance of his Office on this matter, emphasising that he will closely monitor the process.