UN condemns closure of Novaya Gazeta in Russia

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has expressed deep concern and sadness following the announcement that the historic Russian newspaper, Novaya Gazeta, is being forced to close.

Türk described the closure as a “new harsh, devastating blow” to the independent media outlets still operating within the Russian Federation. He noted that independent journalism in the country has faced increasing restrictions and pressures for years, which intensified significantly following the large-scale invasion of Ukraine through restrictive legislation, stricter state controls, and the harassment and prosecution of journalists.

The High Commissioner called on Russian authorities to cease implementing measures that obstruct the coverage of matters of legitimate public interest and to allow for free and unhindered debate that reflects a full diversity of views in both the media and public space, in accordance with international standards.