AJM – Stip: condemnation for obstructing the work of the journalist from Channel 77

The Regional Center of the Association of Journalists of Stip condemns the behavior of supporters of “GDOM” that prevented the journalist of the national radio network Channel 77 Vanja Micevska to follow the rally of “GDOM” in Stip on 05.09.2016 and report on it.

Participants in the rally of GDOM did not allow the journalist to carry out her professional activity, or to photograph and record the event, although not forbidden to other journalists. With a threatening and menacing tone, several participants from the forefront of the rally turned to the journalist Micevska with the words “Don’t take photos, go to the other side,” referring to the opposite side of the river Otinja, where in front of the municipal building at that moment supporters of the “Colorful Revolution” were protesting. Although Micevska told them she was a journalist and she presented her journalist ID, they continued with the threats, after which she turned to one of the policemen. Micevska again identified herself, but the policeman seemingly not interested in a face gesture told her to leave.

AJM reminds that journalists in performing their work cannot be obstructed and representatives of the Ministry of Interior must ensure secure conditions and protect journalists from any form of attack including verbal.

Regional Center of the Association of Journalists of Stip

Coordinator Ivan Bojadziski