The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Dunja Mijatovic expressed concern about the increasing number of journalists harassed by police while covering “Occupy Wall Street” protests across the United States.

At least eight reporters and photographers have been detained while covering the protests, says the statement posted on the OSCE website.

“There is no question that reporters and photographers have the right to observe, record and report on events that are in plain view,” Mijatovic said adding that detention of reporters covering these events “jeopardizes freedom of the media.”

The latest arrests came just last week as two journalists for university newspapers in the state of Georgia were jailed for 14 hours and charged with “obstructing traffic” while covering an “Occupy Atlanta” demonstration. They must return to court in March 2012.

“Journalists should not have to defend their right to report on matters of public importance. Violating one reporter’s right affects all citizens. It is time for local officials to demand that their law enforcement agencies respect the rights and duties of media in covering public issues,” she added.