The Ministry of Justice has already initiated a procedure of drafting a new Criminal Code that will incorporate crimes, which will result in a rise of the level of protection for journalists and media workers, said Justice Minister Bojan Marichikj on Tuesday.

Minister Marichikj addressed webinar “Amendments to the Criminal Code of North Macedonia: Solution for strengthening journalists’ security”, saying the ministry has met with representatives of the journalism sector and journalism associations, including the Association of Journalists of Macedonia and trade unions.

“Their proposals are welcome because an open dialogue with journalists is the only way towards a new law that will further protect them in doing their job freely, while those who try to intimidate, physically or verbally attack journalists and media workers will be rigorously punished,” said Marichikj.

Besides the legislative changes, he also noted the need for more efficient procedures by institutions charged with investigations and sanctioning.