Media NGOs condemn the aggressive behavior against journalists, exhibited by participants in the rally organized by Șor Party

Media non-governmental organizations condemn the illegal behavior of several participants in the rally organized by Șor Party, who assaulted verbally and physically at least three journalists who were carrying out their mission to inform citizens about events of public interest. The signatory organizations call on the law enforcement bodies to punish the perpetrators.

During the media coverage of the rally, TV8 reporter Viorica Tataru, journalist Andrei Captarenco, as well as the operator of the Center for Investigative Journalists Marin Bogonovschi became the target of intimidation, offensive comments and insults from some participants in the rally. The protesters’ inadequate behavior translated into verbal and physical harassment, insults and threats to the press.

The signatory organizations condemn such unacceptable behavior, pointing out that the actions of the rally participants is a violation of the right to personal integrity, individual freedom and safety, as well as an interference with the special rights guaranteed to journalists. We remind you that these are not the only cases when participants in protests organized by Șor Party defy the law by attacking journalists.

We state that under the Law on Freedom of Expression, the state guarantees the freedom of expression of the media and the intentional unlawful obstruction of the media activity entails criminal liability. At the same time, we emphasize that threats of bodily harm or harm to health, insults and a person’s mistreatment in public places are acts criminalized by law.

The signatory organizations strongly condemn the offenders’ illegal actions against the media and highlight that such violations shall not be tolerated.

We urge the law enforcement bodies of the Republic of Moldova, by virtue of their legal duties, to take note of the deeds committed and to initiate the procedures provided for by law to hold the perpetrators accountable.

Independent Journalism Center

Association of Electronic Press

Association of Independent Press

Access-Info Center

Center for Investigative Journalism

Press Freedom Committee 

RISE Moldova