Press Relaese

Embassy statement on the attack against journalist Goran Gavrilov

January 28, 2008

The US Embassy strongly condemns the attack against journalist and media owner Goran Gavrilov.  We wish Mr. Gavrilov a speedy recovery and expect the capture and prosecution of those responsible for this reprehensible act.

The media are a critical part of any functioning democracy.  This attack, in the context of other recent efforts to stifle news gathering and dissemination, including but not limited to the assault on a journalist in Parliament, the beating of reporters and destruction of equipment at the toll booth, and the destruction of transmitting equipment, raises concerns about the continuing good health of Macedonia’s democratic transition.  Violence, pressure and intimidation must not be allowed to stop or diminish the open flow of information.  Macedonia’s authorities must do all that is in their power to protect freedom of speech, and must act speedily and with determination to punish those who commit crimes to block it. 

 

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