OSCE media freedom representative urges swift investigation into suspected arson attack on TV journalist’s car in Bulgaria

TIRANA, 17 September 2013 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Dunja Mijatović, today expressed concern about a suspected arson attack on a vehicle owned by Bulgarian television journalist Genka Shikerova, co-host of a popular morning show on bTV.

Shikerova’s car was parked in front of her home when it burst into flames on Monday evening. 

“I urge the authorities to carry out a swift and transparent investigation and make its result public,” Mijatović said. “Prompt and transparent response is especially needed in this case as there is concern that this incident could be linked to Shikerova’s profession.”

“I also hope that the authorities will do their utmost to successfully investigate earlier cases of violence against journalists in Bulgaria that remain unsolved,” Mijatović said.

Mijatović is currently in Tirana on official visit. She will also attend the 3rd South East Europe Media Conference which starts in Tirana on Thursday.