Riesco's legal battle unveils tensions in the Spanish television industry

Location: Spain, Madrid

Date: March 24, 2024

Women Press Freedom expresses solidarity with Marta Riesco, a veteran journalist who has filed a wrongful dismissal suit against her previous employer, Telecinco's Unicorn Content production company. Riesco's departure from Telecinco — following disputes with influential figures such as Jorge Javier Vázquez — and her subsequent legal actions for alleged unfair dismissal shine a spotlight on the urgent need for transparency and justice within the media industry. We stand with Marta Riesco and support her decision to challenge her dismissal. We call on the network to provide transparency regarding the circumstances that led to Riesco's termination and advocate for justice for the journalist.

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Veteran journalist Marta Riesco has initiated legal proceedings against her former employer, Telecinco, and its production company, Unicorn Content, alleging unfair dismissal. 

Riesco, who has been a familiar face on Spanish television, found herself at the center of controversy following her departure from Telecinco, a move she claims was unjust and a direct result of her clashes with high-profile figures within the network, including Jorge Javier Vázquez. The journalist's legal battle has since unveiled a deeper narrative of discord, especially following her recent accusations directed at Joaquín Prat, a host for the network.

In a statement released to the press, Riesco expressed her determination to fight for justice, citing the treatment she received as contrary to her expectations, given her past performance and contributions to the network. “There are untold truths that I will reveal,” Riesco declared, hinting at a broader issue of misconduct and unfair treatment within the industry.

"While not harboring resentment, the inflicted suffering demands acknowledgment. I aspire to share a comprehensive account once circumstances allow," she disclosed.

Women Press Freedom believes that transparency from Telecinco regarding the circumstances leading to Riesco's dismissal is not just beneficial but necessary. The network owes it to Riesco, its audience, and the wider media community to provide a clear and honest account of the events that led to such a drastic step. Additionally, the industry at large must reflect on this case and consider the mechanisms it has in place to protect individuals from unfair treatment and to ensure that freedom of expression is upheld within a respectful and equitable workplace environment.

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