On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, which is celebrated around the world on 3 May, the British Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Julian Reilly, reaffirms the United Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to freedom of expression and independent journalism in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
– Freedom of information and objective, fact-based journalism face serious threats. The UK recognises that political pressures across BiH continue to restrict media freedom. For example, Republika Srpska, rather than aligning itself with European standards on freedom of expression, is adopting legislative tools – such as criminalising defamation and registering ‘foreign agents’ – to suppress independent media. Elsewhere, we are witnessing efforts to introduce legal provisions relating to ‘fake news’. All of these measures aim to limit and silence alternative voices – Reilly stressed.
He added that they recognise the vital contribution that many journalists continue to make to ensuring factual and objective information despite these pressures, including, in some cases, physical intimidation.
Reilly said that free, independent and pluralistic media are not only crucial in protecting democratic values, but are also essential for promoting peace and empowering communities to make informed decisions.
He stressed that this year’s theme, ‘Shaping a Future in Peace’, is particularly relevant because in times when peace and stability are at stake, the role of independent journalism becomes indispensable.
Reilly noted that in Bosnia and Herzegovina, media professionals bravely face significant challenges, including intimidation, political interference and threats to editorial independence, all of which make it difficult for journalists to report freely and accurately, and that, as a result, the public’s access to impartial information is often limited.
– The UK stands with journalists and media professionals in Bosnia and Herzegovina, advocating for their safety and independence, and is strongly focused on the need for a functioning and adequately funded public broadcaster. We are committed to supporting local partners and civil society to strengthen the legal, political and economic frameworks necessary for a vibrant and sustainable media environment. Journalists must have the freedom to investigate and report without fear, and the media must be able to operate without undue influence. We congratulate all journalists and media professionals on World Press Freedom Day – said Reilly, the British Embassy announced.
