The media is “vital” for informing the public about the coronavirus crisis and authorities in Bosnia must ensure the transparency in their work, as well as provide adequate working conditions for media workers in light of the pandemic, the EU Delegation in Bosnia told N1 in a statement on Wednesday.

“We expect from the authorities at all levels to ensure transparency in their work, share information proactively, cooperate with the media community, and promote and protect access to information. Moreover, media freedom and freedom of access to information are fundamental EU principles, essential to any free and democratic society,” the statement said.  

“Unhindered work of the media is vital for providing accurate, timely and reliable information to the public, especially in a crisis situation. Appropriate working conditions, including protection against COVID-19 work-related risks should also be provided for media workers whilst performing their job. At the same time, media is expected to adhere to the highest professional and ethical standards,” it said.

“The EU will continue to stand by journalists and media workers in the important work they do and call on all levels of authority in BiH to enable a conducive environment for media freedom and freedom of expression. This also includes the necessity to improve legislation on freedom of access to information, and its implementation, as well as to ensure systematic protection of journalists.”