BBC temporarily suspends work of journalists in Russia

In an unprecedented move, the BBC has announced that it is temporarily suspending the work of its journalists in Russia. 

It follows the approval of a law in the lower chamber of the Russian parliament that allows the imposition of jail sentences up to 15 years for those convicted of spreading “fake” information.

Reacting to new legislation passed by the Russian authorities, BBC Director-General Tim Davie says:

“This legislation appears to criminalise the process of independent journalism. It leaves us no other option than to temporarily suspend the work of all BBC News journalists and their support staff within the Russian Federation while we assess the full implications of this unwelcome development.

“Our BBC News service in Russian will continue to operate from outside Russia.

“The safety of our staff is paramount and we are not prepared to expose them to the risk of criminal prosecution simply for doing their jobs. I’d like to pay tribute to all of them, for their bravery, determination and professionalism.

“We remain committed to making accurate, independent information available to audiences around the world, including the millions of Russians who use our news services. Our journalists in Ukraine and around the world will continue to report on the invasion of Ukraine.”

Picture: BBC Moscow correspondent Steve Rosenberg reporting on the closure of Ekho Moskvy radio