The Norwegian, Finnish, Danish and Icelandic unions of journalists are leaving the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) in protest against the federation's policies.
In a press release, the Norwegian Union of Journalists (NJ) denounced a “lack of democratic process” and an unwillingness to react after the Russian journalists’ association installed itself in Ukrainian regions annexed by Russia.
“Together with the Nordic associations and several other countries, the NJ fought for years to establish electoral rules, transparency in decision-making or in the use of funds, just like other basic democratic principles. We must conclude that we have failed,” said NJ President Dag Idar Tryggestad.
He added that the limit was reached when the IFJ passively accepted the installation of the Russian journalists’ union in several annexed Ukrainian territories.
“That was reported, but no action was taken. We cannot be part of such an organisation,” the NJ president added.
According to a press release issued by the NJ, a similar situation occurred in Georgia, in the separatist region of Abkhazia, supported by Russia. That part of the Georgian territory has been admitted as an independent member of the IFJ.
The Norwegian association also criticised the international federation last year when it wanted to host one of its congresses in Oman, even though in that country, freedom of the press and freedom of expression are not respected.
