At press conference in Moscow, Reznik's defence states violation of his rights

The defence of the Rostov journalist Sergey Reznik, who was convicted on charges of false denunciation and insulting the authorities, has stated a violation of his right to the freedom of expression as guaranteed by the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), and promised, if necessary, to appeal to the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) in Strasbourg.

"Now, we'll bring a complaint to the regional court," Tumas Misakyan, a Sergey Reznik's advocate, said today at a press conference at the Central House of Journalists, whose words are quoted from the venue by the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent.

"And if we fail to find justice in Russia, we'll address the ECtHR. On Monday, we'll get the verdict and start working with it," said Galina Arapova, a representative of the Glasnost Defence Foundation.

According to the defence, in relation to Reznik, his rights under Article 10, "the freedom of expression" of the ECHR, have been violated. The journalist had the right to express his opinion, including in an expressive way, Ms Arapova has pointed out. "Also, a journalist should not be held liable for reposting someone's publication," she said.

She treated the Reznik's verdict as a "precedent".

Full text of the article is available on the Russian page of 24/7 Internet agency ‘Caucasian Knot’.