(JuHI/IFEX) – According to information provided by the Union of Independent Journalists of Uzbekistan (UIJU – http://www.uiju.org), Yevgheniy Dyakonov’s freedom of expression is under threat. Dyakonov is a member of UIJU and the founder of the online magazine “Zone” (www.zona.uz). In a UIJU letter to President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov, the union stated that it […]
(JuHI/IFEX) – According to information provided by the Union of Independent Journalists of Uzbekistan (UIJU – http://www.uiju.org), Yevgheniy Dyakonov’s freedom of expression is under threat. Dyakonov is a member of UIJU and the founder of the online magazine “Zone” (www.zona.uz).
In a UIJU letter to President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov, the union stated that it “is extremely concerned that the Uzbek law-enforcement agencies continue to render pressure on Yevgheniy Dyakonov. Since February 2002, Dyakonov is being monitored by employees of the Uzbek special security services.”
One of Dyakonov’s relatives suffered serious trauma following an attack by unknown assailants in Dyakonov’s apartment. Unfortunately, as of 29 March no steps had been taken to look into her beating, despite the fact that the victim identified one of the attackers. The assailants demanded that Dyakonov cease releasing the magazine “Zone”.
On 27 March, Dyakonov informed UIJU that on that day his father, Leonid Dyakonov, was
compelled to leave Uzbekistan as a result of the increased pressure. According to the journalist, “yesterday evening, the armed militia of Shaykhantaur district came to our house intending to arrest my father. However, my father, Leonid Dyakonov, did not open the door. He later found out from the divisional office that they intended to arrest him in connection with my journalistic activities. Today, I sent my father out of Uzbekistan and I am forced to hide in different locations for now.”
Recommended Action
Send appeals to the president:
– asking for the protection of Dyakonov’s constitutionally sanctioned freedoms
– calling for an end to the monitoring of Dyakonov by the special security services
Appeals To
HE Islam Karimov
President of Uzbekistan
Presidential Residence, 1 Akhunbabayev St.
Tashkent 700163
Republic of Uzbekistan
Fax: +998 71 139 5325
E-mail: presidents_office@press-service.uz
(if your e-mail bounces back, please fax appeal if possible).
Please copy appeals to the source if possible.
