JOINT STATEMENT Ribeiro and Aggeler: Concern over Republika Srpska Government's intention to criminalize defamation, it is a step backward

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Teresa Ribeiro and Head of the OSCE Mission Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina Brian Aggeler expressed concern in a joint statement following the decision of the Government of Republika Srpska (RS), an entity in BiH, to take steps towards reintroducing criminal defamation into the RS Criminal Code.

"Bosnia and Herzegovina was the first country in the region in 2001 to decriminalize defamation throughout its territory. In this context, we see this as a step backward in an already fragile media freedom environment in the RS entity where only a few free and independent media outlets operate today," the statement reads.

It adds: "Such developments are concerning as they occur despite recent assurances from the RS Ministry of Justice that the Government does not intend to work on amending the RS Criminal Code, even though it was first announced by the President of RS Milorad Dodik at the end of 2022."

"We reiterate once again that such moves are contrary to international standards and good practice and will further damage the overall situation with free media in RS. We will closely monitor this situation in line with our mandate. We will also continue to be available for constructive dialogue and guidance for all stakeholders. RS authorities have a responsibility to ensure an inclusive, constructive, and transparent public debate on all amendments that may affect media freedom in that entity," the statement says.

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media monitors media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. It provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and freedom of the media and promotes full respect for OSCE commitments on freedom of the media.