OSCE representative condemns setting reporter’s car on fire in Cyprus

WARSAW, 20 September 2016 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today condemned the setting ablaze of a reporter’s car in Nicosia, Cyprus.

The car, which belongs to crime reporter Dina Kleanthous of the online news site Reporter Online, was set on fire in the middle of the night on Monday outside her home. 

“This blatant attempt to coerce a journalist who is reporting on news of public interest is simply unacceptable,” Mijatović said. “I urge the authorities to investigate this incident thoroughly and bring to justice those responsible.”

Kleanthous said the act was likely related to her professional activities.

According to a statement issued by the Union of Cyprus Journalists, Kleanthous had received threats on an issue she was covering.

The Representative reminded the authorities of their responsibility to ensure journalists’ safety in the country.

Mijatović is in Warsaw participating in the OSCE Human Dimension Implementation Meeting. 

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. She 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 at www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.