Ro
En
Рy04 March 2020
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In the context of the protests organized by the veterans of the war on Nistru River, we would like to remind you that Article 16 of the Law on Assemblies stipulates that such events shall be peaceful. Article 17 of the same law states that anyone can record videos and/or audios during assemblies, while Article 19 mentions that the participants at assemblies shall obey the legislation and public order, as well as refrain from actions that can hamper the assembly and from instigating such actions.
The organizers and participants to public events have to take into account that any violent behavior against media is a serious violation of the journalists’ rights, while the deliberate obstruction of media activity is subject to criminal liability, according to Article 1801 of the Criminal Code.
This statement was made in the context of an incident which took place today, 2 March, when a protester tried to take away a NewsMaker.md reporter’s phone (Nicolae Paholnitchi), which he used to stream the demonstration live in front of the Government House. The protester was outraged because the journalist asked him a question in Russian language and thus he tried to snatch the reporter's phone.
We strongly condemn any form of intimidation and assault against journalists. Please remember that Article 20 of the Law on Press guarantees the freedom to obtain and share information through media, to make audiovisual recordings, to film and take pictures, to attend rallies, demonstrations and other public events.
The organizers and participants to public events have to take into account that any violent behavior against media is a serious violation of the journalists’ rights, while the deliberate obstruction of media activity is subject to criminal liability, according to Article 1801 of the Criminal Code.
This statement was made in the context of an incident which took place today, 2 March, when a protester tried to take away a NewsMaker.md reporter’s phone (Nicolae Paholnitchi), which he used to stream the demonstration live in front of the Government House. The protester was outraged because the journalist asked him a question in Russian language and thus he tried to snatch the reporter's phone.
We strongly condemn any form of intimidation and assault against journalists. Please remember that Article 20 of the Law on Press guarantees the freedom to obtain and share information through media, to make audiovisual recordings, to film and take pictures, to attend rallies, demonstrations and other public events.
The State shall guarantee the protection of journalist honor and dignity, shall protect their health, life and property (Article 20(3) of the Law on Press). Also, the public has the freedom of information (Article 6(1) of the Law on Freedom of Expression).
Also, we would like to remind you that journalists shall avoid provocative behaviors too, collect information in an ethical and legal manner, observe the Code of Ethics, as well as be responsible for their own property and physical integrity.
Independent Journalism Center
Association of Independent Press
Association of Electronic Press
Center for Investigative Journalism
Press Freedom Committee
Association of Independent TV Journalists
‘Access-info’ Center
