OSCE media freedom representative concerned about suspension of television stations in Georgia

VIENNA, 8 November 2007 - Miklos Haraszti, the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, expressed concern today about the suspension of the work of Imedi TV, Georgia's most watched independent broadcaster and Kavkasia TV, which transmits in Tbilisi.

The closures took effect late Wednesday, before a presidential decree that sanctions a partial suspension of rights to information, speech, association and strike, entered into force.

"While introducing a state of emergency may be in accordance with the country's Constitution, the media also must be able to fulfil their constitutional vocation of informing society about events in the country," Haraszti said.

"Pluralism of broadcasting is essential for a democracy. I urge Georgia's authorities to allow the resumption of Imedi and Kavkasia television stations."

Haraszti also said he was concerned about violence against journalists during a rally in Tbilisi.

"The disturbing reports of journalists falling victim to violence during a political rally on 7 November are worrying. I urge the authorities to show restraint in dealing with journalists during political demonstrations and avoiding interference with coverage of public events in the media," he added.

Haraszti also said that a report published by his office earlier this year on the handling of journalists during political demonstrations could be a useful guide in Georgia and in other locations where demonstrations occur.

"Deliberate attempts to confiscate, damage or break journalists' equipment in order to silence reporting are criminal offences and those responsible should be held accountable under the law," said Haraszti.

The Special Report on Handling of the media during political demonstrations is available at:
//www.osce.org/documents/rfm/2007/06/25176_en.pdf (English)

//www.osce.org/documents/rfm/2007/06/25176_ru.pdf (Russian)