Fight for free journalism: RFE/RL in Russia's catch!

Fight for free journalism: RFE/RL in Russia's catch!

Prag, Tschechische Republik - The tensions between the USA and Russia are increasing, while Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) is under increasing pressure. According to reports from Kleine Zeitung , RFE/RL has been classified as" undesirable "by the Russian authorities, which serious legal consequences for the journalists. This measure is no coincidence: Russia has already imposed high fines against RFE/RL in the amount of almost one million dollars, since the broadcaster has presumably violated the controversial "law on foreign agents". This law, which NGOs and media, which preserves foreign financing, marks a serious threat to independent reporting.

The collision is heading because US Foreign Minister Antony Flasch has recently confirmed his support for RFE/RL. He met with the reigning director of the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), Kelu Chao, to emphasize the importance of independent media for democracy, such as rfe/rl reported. Flashing described the Russian attempts to close RFE/RL as harmful to the citizens who depend on access to independent reporting. The broadcaster, which reaches almost 50 million people in 23 countries weekly, is supported by former US presidents from both political parties and is considered a critical voice in countries in which freedom of expression is severely restricted.

criticism and international solidarity

Stephen Capus, President of RFE/RL, warned of the consequences for the variety of opinion if the US government should withdraw support for the transmitter. He noted that the closure of RFE/RL could be seen as a "huge gift to the enemies of America", while high -ranking, like Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky, underlined the need for independent sources of information in oppressed countries. Since its foundation in 1949, RFE/RL has played a key role in reporting on suppressed societies, including Russia, where the freedom of the press is in serious danger.

The events around RFE/RL make the world listen because they highlight a highlight to the increasing restriction of freedom of the press in Russia and the geopolitical tensions between the USA and the Kremlin. The course that Russia has taken could not only determine the fate of RFE/RL, but also have far -reaching consequences for independent media worldwide