Media NGOs condemn the illegal actions against journalists committed by the participants in the “March of Victory,” and call on the law enforcement bodies to punish the perpetrators

Non-governmental media organizations condemn the unlawful conduct exhibited by multiple participants in the event called the “March of Victory” event. These individuals physically and verbally attacked at least two journalists who were carrying out their duty to inform the public about matters of public interest. The undersigned organizations urge law enforcement authorities to take appropriate measures to hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions.

While covering the event, journalist Nadejda Roșcovanu from Jurnal.md portal and TV8 television station reporter Viorica Tataru were subjected to intimidation, offensive confrontations, and insults by certain participants in the “March of Victory.” Specifically, their improper conduct included verbal harassment, insults, and physical assault (“You deserve it [note: that you are being hit]. You should be killed” – a message directed at photojournalist Nadejda Roșcovanu by one of the rally participants).

The signatory organizations condemn such defiant behaviour, pointing out that the participants’ actions during the rally constitute a violation of the right to bodily integrity of a person, of their individual freedom and safety, as well as an interference with the special rights guaranteed to 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 emphasise that threats of bodily harm or harm to health, insults and a person’s mistreatment in public places are acts criminalised 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

‘Access-info’ Center

Association of Electronic Press

Association of Independent Press

Media Guard Association

Center for Investigative Journalism

Environment and Ecotourism Journalists’ Association