UN Expert On Freedom of Expression to Visit Macedonia

UN Expert On Freedom of Expression to Visit the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia

GENEVA (17 June 2013) – The United Nations Special Rapporteur Frank La Rue will visit the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia from 18 to 21 June 2013. During his visit, the expert will assess the right to freedom of opinion and expression situation in the country.

“I intend to study the most important challenges to freedom of expression in the country, as well as the initiatives taken to ensure this fundamental right is well protected,” Mr. La Rue said “among other issues, I will look at the measures taken to guarantee the independence of the media, the safety of journalists, as well as the efforts to prevent hate speech.”

Mr. La Rue will visit the country through the invitation of the Macedonian Government. During the visit he will meet with national authorities including members of the legislative and judicial branches. He will also hold discussions with non-governmental organizations, journalists and press organizations.

The Special Rapporteur will prepare a report on the main findings of his visit and make recommendations on the promotion of the right to freedom of expression in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. The report will be presented at the UN Human Rights Council in June 2014.  

Mr. La Rue will host a press conference to share his preliminary conclusions and observations on the morning of Friday, 21 June 2013 in the Holiday Inn Hotel Skopje (Mosa Pijade Str. 2, Skopje 1000, Macedonia).
 
ENDS

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