OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina supports local media as a key link between public and local governments
SARAJEVO, 3 September 2010 - Freedom of the media and responsible journalism are crucial to all democracies and are a priority for the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Head of the OSCE Mission, Ambassador Gary D. Robbins, told journalists today at a news conference in Sarajevo.
Speaking to representatives from local radio and TV stations which received assistance from the OSCE Mission to develop broadcasts highlighting positive civic engagement and participation, Robbins emphasized the role media plays in supporting the development of an informed and active civil society.
"We are just one month away from the general elections in this country and local journalists and media will be put to the test in objectively informing citizens about political developments in their communities," said Robbins. "The media are one of the key players in ensuring a fair pre-election and post-election season. Their role in such efforts cannot be overstated."
Supporting local broadcasters' engagement with citizens and local government is central to a project launched by the OSCE Mission to emphasize the importance of accurate and relevant local media content and the role of local media in building a vibrant civil society.
The project aims to encourage journalists to research and produce material that illustrates how citizens can influence the decision-making process in their communities and municipal governments.
Robbins called on participants to promote the highest professional standards and to report on the issues that are relevant and important to their communities. "It is the professional responsibility of the media to address the pressing issues of the citizens and to introduce and include the unheard voices into the public debate - and we at the OSCE Mission share this goal. As journalists, you are the gatekeepers of free public information that citizens need and are entitled to," he said.
The Media and Communication project is part of the Mission's Local First Initiative which was launched in March 2009.