Georgia should uphold its high media freedom standards, says OSCE media freedom representative

TBILISI, 13 November 2013 –OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today called on the Georgian authorities to stay on the path toward media freedom as she ended her visit to Tbilisi.

“Media freedom is high on agenda of the Georgian authorities, and I am grateful for their readiness to continue co-operation with my Office,” Mijatović said.

Mijatović met with Chair of the Parliament David Usupashvili and Foreign Minister Maia Panjikidze to discuss the broadcast media freedom situation.

“I will continue to follow closely the developments around Georgian Public Service Broadcaster (GPB). I am concerned about the way election of Board of Trustees of Ajara TV and Radio was conducted on 5 November. It is an unfortunate decision, which challenges the rule of law and among other things undermines the integrity of the public broadcaster,” she said. “I hope that soon a fair solution would be found for the current crisis, so that the broadcaster can continue playing its important role in the society. GPB must be the model of balanced and professional work and be able to operate free from any political and business interference.”

“Full autonomy should also be granted to the regulator, the Georgian National Communications Commission, to ensure the efficiency and impartiality of its work. This is vitally important in the run-up to digitalization as the independent regulator should enhance pluralism in the broadcasting field.”

Mijatović also urged the authorities to outline a timeline for and take practical steps for the upcoming digital switchover with involvement of all stakeholders, including civil society.

“It is encouraging that my concerns are shared by authorities and I hope that these challenges will be successfully addressed. My Office stands ready to support Georgia by all means possible and provide necessary policy recommendations and other assistance,” Mijatović said.

During the visit the Representative also met with the civil society representatives and journalists, including Media Advocacy Coalition, as well as with members of the Parliament, the board and management of the Public Service Broadcaster and representatives of the Economy Ministry.

Mijatović’s Office is holding a training class for young reporters on citizen journalism today at Ilia State University.