On April 28th, 2021, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported that one of their journalists, Amie Ferris-Rotman, had been detained in Moscow and held by the Federal Security Service (FSB) on the suspicion of espionage. The WSJ promptly responded, pushing for Ferris-Rotman’s release.
Journalist Detained
On April 27th, the FSB detained Ferris-Rotman, a reporter for the WSJ’s Moscow bureau, as she was leaving her home. The FSB reportedly accused her of espionage and, according to Ferris-Rotman’s lawyer, seized her phone, laptop, and other materials. Reports said that she was taken to the FSB’s headquarters in Moscow and held overnight.
WSJ Takes Action
In response, the WSJ released a statement condemning this “unacceptable” act. The publisher reasserted its commitment to “ensure the safety of our journalists and fully protect their rights,” and requested Ferris-Rotman’s immediate release. Furthermore, the WSJ called on Russian authorities to “ensure respect for press freedom in Russia.”
Intervention from International Community
The detention has been met with global outcry. US and UK foreign offices, as well as the European Union, also demanded Ferris-Rotman’s release. All have reinforced their commitment to upholding press freedom, with the United Nations stressing its requirement for “strict respect of the fundamental human rights of freedom of opinion and expression.”
Release and Subsequent Apology from Russian Government
In the following days, the Russian government released Ferris-Rotman and apologized for their actions. The FSB stated that they “did not intend to make real accusations” and that they were “just doing their job.” The apology has been deemed “not sufficient” by the WSJ.
Call to Action
The arrest of Amie Ferris-Rotman is the latest example of a trend of press freedom being infringed around the globe. Let’s not stand for this injustice and show the world that no one should be silenced. Share this article on social media to let your voice be heard.