International human rights organization Article 19 has released a statement outlining its “strong concern” that freedoms of expression and information are being threatened in Russia, especially in light of the recent presidential elections.

Attacks on and harassment of journalists in Russia – namely non-governmental organizations and independent media – continue to increase, and journalists are regularly hindered by authorities in their efforts to report, according to an Article 19 press release.

Since January, at least four attacks on journalists have been recorded, and in no case have the attackers been found or charged, it says.

Article 19 also expresses concern over Russia’s “unduly restrictive” Law on Counteracting Extremist Activity, under which libel or slander of a public official may be classed as an extremist activity.

To learn more, click here, or email Catrina Pickering at catrina@article19.org.