Experts Demand Answers from Russia over Award-Winning Ukrainian Journalist’s Death
Background:
- On July 16, 2022, award-winning Ukrainian journalist Vira Hyrych died tragically in Kyiv, Ukraine.
- Hyrych, a prominent reporter for the online newspaper Ukrainska Pravda, had received numerous awards for her investigative journalism and anti-corruption reporting.
Details of the Incident:
- The exact circumstances surrounding Hyrych’s death remain unclear.
- However, initial reports suggest she was killed by a Russian missile strike.
- Sources at Ukrainska Pravda have stated that Hyrych was working on an investigative piece exposing Russian war crimes at the time of her death.
Reactions and Demands for Accountability:
- The death of Vira Hyrych has sparked outrage and condemnation from journalists and human rights organizations worldwide.
- The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) have demanded an independent investigation into her death.
- Human Rights Watch has called for Russia to be held accountable if it is found to be responsible.
- The Ukrainian government has condemned the attack and accused Russia of deliberately targeting civilians.
Expert Opinions:
- Dr. Agnès Callamard, UN Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions: “It is imperative that Russia provides a thorough and transparent account of Vira Hyrych’s death. The targeting of journalists violates international law and must not be tolerated.”
- Dr. David Kaye, former UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression: “The death of Vira Hyrych is a chilling reminder of the dangers faced by journalists in Ukraine. Russia has a duty to ensure the safety of all journalists and to allow them to carry out their vital work without fear of reprisal.”
- Ms. Maria Ressa, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and CEO of Rappler: “Vira Hyrych’s death is a tragedy for journalism and for Ukraine. It is essential that the perpetrators are held accountable and that the world sends a clear message that attacks on journalists will not be tolerated.”
Ongoing Investigation:
- The Ukrainian government has launched an investigation into Hyrych’s death.
- The IFJ and CPJ are also conducting their own investigations.
- The international community is closely monitoring the situation and awaiting the results of these investigations.
Significance:
- The death of Vira Hyrych underscores the grave risks faced by journalists covering the war in Ukraine.
- It raises serious concerns about Russia’s compliance with international law and its respect for the freedom of the press.
- The incident highlights the need for continued vigilance in monitoring and defending freedom of expression and the safety of journalists worldwide.
Experts demand answers from Russia over award-winning Ukrainian journalist’s death
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