The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) has expressed concern over the latest attack against journalists staged by controversial politician Volen Siderov.

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Dunja Mijatovic, has asked Bulgarian authorities to ensure that media can work freely in the country.

On 5 July a television crew of SKAT TV was verbally and physically assaulted by Siderov and other members of his political party Ataka in Burgas while trying to interview the parliamentarian.

The five journalists filed complaints with the local police claiming that they were verbally attacked, physically injured and their equipment was damaged during the incident.

“This kind of behaviour towards members of the media is unacceptable. Politicians should rather lead by example in showing a higher level of tolerance towards public criticism and make sure that even voices they disagree with are protected,” Mijatovic said in a statement.

Mijatovic added that her Office had registered several cases of verbal and physical attacks on journalists by Siderov in recent years.

“Such intimidation not only threatens the affected journalists, it can also harm free expression and have a chilling effect on media freedom. Political immunity should not be used to allow the mistreatment of journalists and the public humiliation of media workers”.

“I trust that the Bulgarian authorities will ensure that such behaviour is no longer tolerated,” she said.”

We need your support so Novinite.com can keep delivering news and information about Bulgaria! Thank you!