OSCE media freedom watchdog concerned about increased tension in Armenia's media freedom environment

VIENNA, 21 December 2007 - Miklos Haraszti, the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, said today he was concerned that the Armenian regional broadcaster Gala TV may cease broadcasting as a result of pressure by the authorities, and over an explosion in front of the office of Chorrord Ishkhanutyun, an opposition newspaper based in Yerevan.

"The recent cases of harassment and violence against independent and opposition media have contributed to an atmosphere of intimidation and fear in the journalistic community in Armenia," said Haraszti in a letter to Armenian Foreign Minister Vartan Oskanian

Gala TV, based in Gyumri, is facing two lawsuits as a result of which the company could be obliged to pay approximately 58 000 Euro into the state budget, and may lose the right to use its broadcasting tower.

"I trust that the local authorities will not make arbitrary decisions and demonstrate goodwill for a compromise settlement, so that Gala TV can continue broadcasting," said Haraszti.

Referring to the 13 December explosion at the entrance of Chorrord Ishkhanutyun, the OSCE Representative said: "I urge Armenia's law enforcement bodies to punish the perpetrators not just for the sake of justice but also to give support to freedom of expression in the country."

Haraszti also said he hoped the Government of Armenia will fulfil its OSCE commitments to ensure safe and favourable working conditions for the media, so that the media can contribute to a fair election campaign.