Editing Office - Geneva

 Press briefing note on Montenegro

We are concerned about the sentencing by the High Court of Podgorica on Tuesday of investigative journalist Jovo Martinović to 18 months in prison on charges of drug smuggling and membership in a criminal organization. Martinovic had already served a prolonged period of pre-trial detention and there are concerns that his case might be politically motivated as credible evidence is yet to be brought in connection to his case. We urge State authorities to ensure that journalists are able to work in a free and enabling environment without fear of imprisonment or violence, including those involved in investigations of illicit trafficking and organized crime. We reiterate our call to Montenegrin authorities to comply with their international obligations to protect the right to freedom of opinion and expression, and to ensure due process and judicial safeguards for all.