OSCE media representative saddened by Azerbaijani writer’s death

VIENNA, 23 November 2011 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Dunja Mijatović, said today she was deeply saddened by the death of Azerbaijani writer and newspaper columnist Rafiq Tagi and hopes that  all those responsible will be brought to justice.

“Attacks on journalists and writers are attacks on freedom of the media and freedom of expression. These crimes must be prosecuted with utmost resolution for the sake of democracy,” said the Representative, commending the fact that the Azerbaijani authorities have started a criminal investigation into the assault on Tagi.

On 19 November a single attacker stabbed Tagi repeatedly. The journalist died today in the Baku hospital, where he was being treated.

“I hope the Azerbaijani authorities will swiftly bring the investigation to a conclusive end. Regardless of their motives, the perpetrators of this hideous crime and all those behind it must be prosecuted,” Mijatović said, reminding that "the murder of Monitor newspaper editor Elmar Huseynov in 2005 still remains unsolved".

Mijatović extended her condolences to Tagi’s relatives and colleagues.