The Russian Federation is increasing systemic blocking of broadcasting of independent Ukrainian media in the occupied Crimea: out of 19 settlements in the north of the peninsula, Ukrainian stations are heard only in five, and in other cities, Ukrainian radio stations have been blocked since the beginning of the occupation. It is reported by the Crimean human rights group.
"System monitoring of the situation with access to Ukrainian media in Crimea shows that as of June 2020, the Russian Federation not only continues, but also strengthens the system blocking of broadcasting of independent Ukrainian media in Crimea", the report said.
It is noted that out of 19 settlements in the north of Crimea, Ukrainian stations are heard only in five, and broadcast coverage is constantly decreasing. In other cities of the peninsula, Ukrainian radio stations are blocked from the beginning of the occupation. In addition, in Crimea, 10 providers in at least 9 major settlements completely block 20 Ukrainian information sites and 2 social networks.
“In this regard, the Crimean human rights group appeals to representatives of the OSCE member states to increase pressure on the Russian Federation to stop blocking media and other illegal restrictions on freedom of speech in Crimea and also to stop the Russian Federation from violating a number of obligations to other OSCE member states”,- human rights activists emphasized.