PRESS RELEASE

OSCE Media Freedom Representative and OSCE Head of Mission to Serbia welcome reversal by Serbian Government of decision on public information

VIENNA/BELGRADE, 2 April 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, and the Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia, Andrea Orizio, welcomed today the reversal by the Serbian Government on the decision on public information during the current health emergency.

Today, the Government of Serbia revoked a decision aimed at regulating the centralization of public information on the coronavirus pandemic during the current state of emergency.

“I welcome the swift reaction by the Serbian authorities and their willingness to take into account our remarks and those of the media community. This will keep channels open for media professionals to seek, receive and impart information during the pandemic. Access to information is key for journalists to do their job and to report professionally on issues of public interest related to the health crisis,” said Désir. “The media must be able to report on, and provide to the public, vital information on health measures and have an important role to play in combating the spread of false information on the pandemic,” the Representative added.

“By responding positively to the justified concerns of media professionals, the local authorities have shown commitment to the principle of freedom of expression and an understanding of the importance of the right to free access to information of public importance. This openness to constructive suggestions will enable local journalists in particular to better serve the citizens and provide reliable information to their communities,” said Ambassador Orizio. “As I agree with the Prime Minister’s observation that there is a need for more efforts aimed at combating “fake news” off and online, the OSCE Mission to Serbia stands ready to support relevant initiatives launched by the authorities and civil society organizations,” added Orizio.

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.

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