prijava
SARAJEVO, June 21 (FENA) - The head of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Bruce G. Berton reiterated today that freedom of expression is the key pillar of any functional democracy and criticizing and openly discussing the work of official institutions, which include judicial institutions, should be welcomed and considered constructive.
Replying to FENA's question about the possibility of the announced prosecution of media outlets which published negative messages about the work of the judiciary “with the aim of destabilizing the judicial system,” Berton stressed that those who lead or who take part in a free and open dialogue on this issue should not be threatened with criminal prosecution.
“Such threats only further damage the already distorted public confidence in the judicial system and create an atmosphere of fear that silences public debate and undermines media freedoms,” said the head of the OSCE Mission, stressing that citizens should rely on free media to provide them with information related to possible misuse of position.
Of course, he added, reporters must also be responsible for gathering information, interviewing public figures and checking the accuracy of the facts stated in statements, in order to provide citizens with the information necessary for effective participation in democratic life and calling public officials accountable.
Berton urged the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council (HJPC) and the Prosecutor's Office of BiH to adequately direct their activities and resources to tackle the most serious offenses involving corruption and organized crime, rather than attacking the work of reporters, thereby further undermining public perception of impartiality judicial system.
(FENA) L. N.
