OSCE media freedom representative welcomes launch of new code of ethics for journalists in Montenegro

PODGORICA / VIENNA, 21 April 2016 – A new  Code of ethics for journalists in Montenegro was launched today in Podgorica by the Office of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, the Council of Europe, the Media Council for Self-Regulation (MCSR), and local publications Vijesti, Dan and Monitor.

“The launch of the new Code today is a significant step,” said OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović, speaking from Vienna. “I congratulate the Working Group, as they have paved the way for strengthening media self-regulation and raising professional standards of the media in Montenegro.”

The Code was prepared by a working group composed of the representatives of the MCSR, Montenegrin dailies Vijesti and Dan, and the weekly Monitor, and was supported by the Office of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media and the Council of Europe.

“Media self-regulation is an important tool to safeguard editorial independence, promote professional standards of journalism, and ensure increased credibility as well as solidarity among the media community,” Mijatović said.

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. She provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.