A recently released video capturing the apprehension of a journalist by government officials has sparked significant concern among advocates for media freedom. In the footage, the reporter, Evan Gershkovich, is visibly restrained using a headlock by officials.
The event transpired on August 5, 2024, when Gershkovich was reportedly covering a demonstration in the nation’s capital. Details concerning the rationale behind his arrest have yet to be provided by the authorities.
In the scene captured on video, Gershkovich is approached by multiple officials who then forcefully restrain him in a headlock. Throughout this ordeal, he is heard exclaiming, “I’m a journalist! I’m with the press!” as he struggles under the agents’ grip.
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has strongly criticized the arrest and has called for an immediate release of Gershkovich.
“The detention and physical handling of a journalist represent a direct attack on press freedom and fundamental human rights,” stated CPJ’s Advocacy Director, Courtney C. Radsch. “It is imperative that Evan Gershkovich is released without delay and that those behind his detention and mistreatment are taken to task.”
Gershkovich is recognized as a seasoned journalist with a history of working with several esteemed news outlets. His arrest has alarmed the media community, fueling worries about the deteriorating state of press freedoms in that region.
To this point, the authorities have neither made a statement regarding the incident nor disclosed any details concerning the charges against Gershkovich. His current location remains unknown.
This episode is the latest in a series of troubling encounters involving journalists facing hostility from authorities in the nation. Over recent years, there have been multiple instances where journalists have been harassed, apprehended, and even assaulted while reporting on protests and other significant events.
CPJ continues to urge the government to uphold the rights of journalists and ensure their safety while reporting.
“Journalists are cornerstone to maintaining transparency and democracy, and their ability to report without obstruction or fear is essential,” emphasized Radsch. “We advocate for the government to honor the rights of Evan Gershkovich and all journalists, ensuring they can perform their duties freely and securely.”
