Belarus: CFWIJ condemns the detention of journalist Carola Schneider

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August 11, 2021- Carola Schneider, a correspondent for Austria's national broadcaster, was detained by the police along with her cameraman. The incident took place in Minsk on August 9. Police brought the pair to the station, though both Carola and her cameraman were released after some time. The CFWIJ condemns the ongoing crackdown against journalists and media organizations in the country. Violations and threats against women journalists working for the free press have become a routine pattern. CFWIJ calls on President Lukashenko's government to end the harassment of women journalists.

Vysana, a human rights centre in Minsk, reported that plainclothes police officers stopped Carola and her cameraman while they were interviewing residents in the area. The journalists were taken to the police station and subsequently released after some time. The ongoing suppression of free media has escalated since the controversial elections of last year. Mass protests erupted across the country as President Lukashenko maintained power for a sixth term amidst claims of electoral fraud. 

The Austrian Foreign Ministry protested the detention of both journalists, who currently work in Belarus for Austria's national broadcaster ORF (Österreichischer Rundfunk). Officials at the foreign ministry called the police action "completely unacceptable". The ministry shared on Twitter, "We immediately protested. Correspondents must be able to work unhindered and media freedom must always be guaranteed."

The Coalition For Women In Journalism condemns the detention of Carola Schneider and her cameraman. Journalists should be able to work in a safe environment free of such intimidation in order to preserve the free press. We urge Belarusian authorities to ensure press freedom in the country and respect journalists at work. CFWIJ has created a detailed report on the press freedom violations against women journalists in the country. We extend our solidarity to Carola and all women journalists who continue their coverage despite persistent harassment.