OSCE alarmed by online attacks on female journalists
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 6 February 2015 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, OSCE alarmed by online attacks on female journalists, 6 February 2015, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5509403515.html [accessed 17 September 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
February 06, 2015
A senior official from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) has expressed concern over online threats and and harrassment targeting female journalists.
In a February 6 statement, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatovic said she is "alarmed" at how female journalists and bloggers are "singled out and fiercly attacked" in social media.
Mijatovic said "the female journalists targeted most report on crime, politics and sensitive – and sometimes painful – issues, including taboos and dogmas in our societies."
She says the online attacks tend to "degrade the journalist as a woman."
"For some female journalists, online threats of rape and sexual violence have become part of everyday life," Mijatovic said. "Others experience severe sexual harassment and intimidation. Misogynist speech is flourishing."
Link to original story on RFE/RL website