Statement on n-ost being classified ‘undesirable organisation’ in Russia

Russian authorities have declared n-ost an ‘undesirable organisation’. This is yet another sign that the Russian regime does not tolerate independent voices and actions that deviate from the state-imposed line.

n-ost’s mission is to puncture national media bubbles by connecting journalists and media from across Europe, especially Europe’s East and its neighbouring regions. Our vision is an integrated European media sphere that is cross-border and collaborative at its core. The measures taken by the Russian government are not only aimed at obstructing the work of our organisation, they are intended to hinder reporting within the European public sphere.

n-ost managing director Hanno Gundert: “The listing is part of Russia's information war in Europe. Putin is attempting to manipulate public opinion in Germany and all over Western Europe, spread disinformation, and divide Western democratic societies.”

Wherever independent journalism retreats, propaganda and unchecked social media narratives rush in. When journalism is under pressure, one of the strongest responses is cooperation: between individual journalists and across newsrooms. This is what the n-ost network stands for. In a growing number of countries journalists are under threat. n-ost stands in solidarity with them. Their courage and their ability to persevere in the face of repression are an inspiration and obligation for us. Protecting and strengthening journalism is our strongest defense against disinformation.

Background:

With the designation as an “undesirable organisation” n-ost joins a list of almost 250 organisations – including more than 30 from Germany – active across civil society, politics, academia, and the media. Being classified as “undesirable” in Russia is tantamount to a ban. Russian citizens can face prosecution for cooperating with such organisations, whether at home or abroad, and can be punished with fines and imprisonment.

About n-ost:

n-ost is a European journalistic network. The media NGO has a focus on Eastern Europe and is committed to cross-border and multiperspective reporting. n-ost connects journalists and media, supports research and provides training: 500 correspondents, photographers and editors work from across Europe. n-ost headquarters are based in Berlin, Germany.