Letter to Evan Gershkovich
This letter has been contributed by MEAA to Dear Evan – a campaign to show support for US journalist Evan Gershkovich, who will this week mark one year in Russian detention on March 29. American-born Gershkovich, who was a member of the WSJ’s Moscow bureau, continues to be held in jail awaiting unspecified espionage charges following his arrest the city of Yekaterinburg on March 29 last year.
Dear Evan,
We have been shocked and appalled by your arrest a year ago and the espionage allegations that have been made against you.
Unfortunately, your treatment is symptomatic of a new wave of attacks on press freedom by authoritarian governments not only in Russia but around the world.
Often, false charges of espionage are laid to prevent truthful and accurate reporting of regimes that are seeking to avoid scrutiny.
Also too often, journalists are being used as pawns in diplomatic games between nation states.
Journalism is not a crime.
In this era of rising authoritarianism, the role of independent journalism in preserving the structures of democracy has never been more important.
Evan, we urge you to stay strong and positive during your detention in Russia, knowing that you have the solidarity and support of the Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance and the journalists of Australia.
We hope that you will draw consolation from the experience of Australian television journalist Cheng Lei, who had a similar ordeal to yourself when she was arrested and detained for more than three years in China on charges of espionage.
She is now free and living and working back in Australia.
Be assured that you are foremost in our thoughts and all efforts are being made to secure your release.
Yours sincerely,
Erin Madeley
Chief Executive
Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance
Letter to Evan Gershkovich
Last update: March 26, 2024
