Dushanbe, 20 June 2011 — European Union Embassies are deeply concerned by reports that a BBC journalist, Urunboi Usmonov, was detained on 13 June and maltreated by security authorities in Khujand. We understand that he has subsequently been charged as a member of “Hizb-ut-Tahrir”. We call on the Tajik authorities to fully investigate the claims of maltreatment of Mr Usmonov. We are also concerned that due legal process has not been correctly adhered to since Mr Usmonov was detained.

The European Union continue to stress the importance of media freedom in Tajikistan; and whilst recognising the efforts of the Tajik Government in ensuring stability and security within the country, would continue to urge the Tajik authorities to adhere to transparent international judicial standards.

The European Union, composed of 27 Member States, is the world’s biggest aid donor. The total value of EU assistance disbursed to Tajikistan since 1992 is over ?500 million.

For further information you may contact Ms. Mahbuba Abdullaeva in the Delegation of the European Union in Tajikistan at tel: +992 (37) 2217407 or e-mail: Mahbuba.Abdullaeva@eeas.europa.eu

www.deltjk.ec.europa.eu