AJM and SSNM: Inappropriate behavior of representatives of the Ministry of Health towards journalists is unacceptable

The Association of Journalists of Macedonia (AJM) and the Independent Trade Union of Journalists and Media Workers (SSNM) express serious concern over the inappropriate and unprofessional behavior towards journalists during a public event in Skopje, which was attended by the Minister of Health Azir Aliu together with the person responsible for protocol from the ministry.

The inappropriate communication by the employee of the ministry, responsible for protocol, occurred after a group of journalists asked her for a statement, to which they received a response from her that she could not, while she addressed one of the journalists with the words: “Ill-mannered, impudent and most impudent journalist”.

We believe that such behavior is unacceptable and inappropriate and represents a serious blow to the dignity of journalists, freedom of expression and the right of the public to be informed. The lack of sanctions for such incidents may create a risk of repetition of similar behavior by other public officials.

At the same time, we welcome the gesture of solidarity from the other journalists and media workers who were present there and, outraged by the inappropriate behavior, left the event in a collegial manner.

AJM and SSNM appeal to the Ministry of Health to urgently review this case and provide appropriate measures for the professional behavior of all public officials towards the media. This is of crucial importance for protecting the right of journalists to access information of public interest and for maintaining trust in institutions.