Novaya Gazeta, Prominent Independent Russian Newspaper, Closes Operations

Novaya Gazeta, a prominent independent Russian newspaper, has closed its operations inside Russia after more than 30 years. The closure is seen as a result of the ongoing pressure on independent journalism in the country, according to a joint statement.

The newspaper has been known for decades for its reporting on corruption, repression, and human rights abuses, often at significant personal risk to its journalists. The statement specifically remembers those reporters who have lost their lives in the course of their work, including Anna Politkovskaya.

According to the statement, Russian authorities continue to use repressive legislation to restrict media freedom. Independent journalists in Russia face serious personal risks, including arrest, detention, harassment, and political imprisonment.

Finland and the UK, as co-chairs of the Media Freedom Coalition, have expressed solidarity with independent journalists and media workers in Russia and those in exile. They have called for the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners, including unlawfully imprisoned journalists. The statement emphasizes the vital role of independent media in providing reliable information and holding those in power accountable, and urges Russian authorities to allow journalists to work freely and safely, end the repression of independent media, and uphold their international human rights obligations.