The Peace Implementation Council is concerned that the recent attack against the independent media in Serbia presents a threat to regional stability and that events in Belgrade have already spilled over into Bosnia and Herzegovina, placing at risk five years of building a sustainable peace.
Freedom of expression is essential to the peace process in the region and in Bosnia and Herzegovina where, regrettably, threats to journalists continue to be a feature. The Council endorses the measures adopted by the International Community to combat the political misuse of the media. Politicians and public officials will be held responsible for their attempts to control and restrict journalistic freedom.
Furthermore, to protect our substantial investment in the Peace Process in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Council supports the decision of the International Community to assist the Serbian independent media in raising its voice to promote democracy.