NGOs condemn trial in Austria of ‘Ibizagate’ whistleblower

Prosecution of Julian Hessenthaler will deter whistleblowing and risks infringing press freedoms, says group

The excessive" criminal prosecution of a security consultant whose Ibizagate" video brought down Austria's government will deter whistleblowers and risks infringing fundamental press and information freedoms, rights groups have said.

In an open letter, 15 Austrian and international organisations said the trial of Julian Hessenthaler, which is due to start on Wednesday, was based on partially constructed accusations used to discredit and apprehend" him.