Paris, 4 July 2023 (TDI): France has strongly condemned the brutal attack on journalist Yelena Milashina and her lawyer, Aleksandr Nemov, in the Chechen Republic.
The incident took place during the trial of Zarema Musayeva, the wife of an opponent of Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov.
The French government has expressed its outrage at the assault, emphasizing its commitment to press freedom, human rights, and the rule of law globally.
France utterly condemns the violent attack on journalist Ms Yelena Milashina and her lawyer, Mr Aleksandr Nemov, while they were in the Chechen Republic.
Statement ➡️ https://t.co/pOdUa8Iyq5 pic.twitter.com/sXxsFcIrlF
— France Diplomacy🇫🇷🇪🇺 (@francediplo_EN) July 4, 2023
Yelena Milashina, a renowned journalist affiliated with Novaya Gazeta, was awarded the Franco-German Prize for Human Rights and the Rule of Law in 2017. Throughout her career, she has fearlessly documented violations of fundamental freedoms in Chechnya, despite facing regular threats and intimidation.
According to the statement by French foreign ministry, the attack against her and her lawyer is not only an assault on their personal safety but also a direct attack on the freedom of the press and the right to express dissenting voices.
France, a staunch advocate for press freedom and human rights, continues to stand firmly in support of these values worldwide. The French government stresses the importance of upholding the principles of a free press and the rule of law in all corners of the globe.
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The attack on Yelena Milashina and her lawyer only strengthens France’s determination to defend the rights of journalists, protect freedom of expression, and promote democracy.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by journalists who strive to uncover the truth and shed light on human rights abuses.
Furthermore, France recognizes the vital role played by journalists like Yelena Milashina in holding governments accountable and exposing wrongdoing.
France calls for a thorough investigation into the attack and urges the Russian authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice. It is imperative that those responsible for this act of violence face the full consequences of their actions.
The statement also says that France stands in solidarity with Yelena Milashina, her lawyer Aleksandr Nemov, and all journalists who courageously work to uncover the truth, defend human rights, and uphold the principles of a free and independent press.
