EFJ GM 2001: 12. Resolution on Ex-USSR

European Federation of Journalists (IFJ)
Resolutions
Adopted by the EFJ GM held in Saint Vincent, Italy, May 4-5, 2001



12. Resolution on Ex-USSR
From the SNJ-CGT, France

Freedom of expression is under serious threat in several states of the Ex USSR.

In Russia the 'Mediamost' group was bought out at the command of the Russian President Putin. This operation aims to eliminate media critical of the Russian government in particular over the conduct of the war in Chechnya.

In the Ukraine, the assassination of the journalist Gongadze and threats against his family reveal the gravity of attempts to undermine press freedom.

In other Ex USSR countries (Caucasus, Chechnya, Belarussia, Central Asia, etc…) the obstacles mounted to prevent journalists performing their work is intolerable.

The EFJ strictly condemns these attacks against press freedom.
The EFJ expresses its solidarity and support for the journalists of this region.
It appeals to the European Parliament to intervene with the authorities of these countries in order to resolve this situation.

It asks the trade unions of these countries to join the EFJ again.