OSCE media freedom representative mourns death of journalist in Russia, calls for rigorous investigation

VIENNA, 4 August 2014 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović said today she was saddened by the death of journalist and blogger Timur Kuashev whose body was found in a suburb of Nalchik, in Kabardino-Balkaria, Russia.

“I express my condolences to Kuashev’s family and colleagues, and hope the authorities will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances of his death,” Mijatović said.

Kuashev, a journalist with the Dosh magazine, which covers events in the North Caucasus, was well known for his critical reporting on human rights issues. He reportedly went missing on 31 July and was found dead the next day.

Kuashev had previously complained about threats from social network users and law enforcement representatives.

Mijatović noted that the Civil Society and Human Rights Council under the President of the Russian Federation called on the authorities to conduct a fair and independent investigation into Kuashev’s death.