UN Expert On Freedom of Expression to Visit Montenegro

UN Expert On Freedom of Expression to Visit Montenegro

GENEVA (11 June 2013) – The United Nations Special Rapporteur Frank La Rue will visit Montenegro from 11 to 17 June 2013, to assess the progress in the realization of the right to freedom of expression in the country. This will be the first visit to Montenegro by an independent expert designated by the UN Human Rights Council.

“I am interested to learn about challenges faced by the country as well as the initiatives taken to ensure freedom of opinion and expression,” Mr. La Rue said. “These include efforts to ensure the freedom of the media and the safety of journalists, initiatives to ensure access to information and to guarantee the freedom in the promotion of demonstrations.”
 
The human rights expert, who visits the country at the invitation of the Government of Montenegro, will meet with Government officials, including members of the legislative and judicial branches. He will also meet with non-governmental organizations, journalists and press organizations, and other organizations and individuals working in areas related to his mandate.

Based on findings and discussions during the visit, the Special Rapporteur will prepare a report and make recommendations on the promotion of the right to freedom of expression in Montenegro. This 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 Monday, 17 June 2013 at 12:30 p.m in Hotel Ramada (74 Bulevar Save Kovaèeviæa, Podgorica).
 
ENDS

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