OSCE Centre supports ethics training for journalists in Kyrgyzstan

KARAKOL, Kyrgyzstan, 10 May 2011 – A training course on ethics and international standards of journalism for young Kyrgyz-language journalists started today in Karakol. The course, which is the first in a series to be held throughout the country, is organized by the public association “Journalists” with the support of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek.

Some 12 journalists are attending the two-and a half day course, which will draw on international and local experiences. The course is relevant for print, internet, TV and radio journalism and covers topics such as balanced reporting, diversity, authenticity of sources and respecting confidentiality of sources.

Ambassador Andrew Tesoriere, the Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, said: “Journalists both inform and influence public opinion. They should report and comment in a responsible, professional and ethical manner. This training course for young journalists will give them the necessary skills.”

Marat Tokoev, the head of the public association “Journalists” said: “In general, Kyrgyzstan’s media is fairly open and free. But it has been experiencing challenging periods, especially during the April and June events in 2010. These events and post-conflict rehabilitation, together with ongoing political reforms, increase the pressure and emotions, risking misbalanced reporting. This effort is about putting core standards into place and educating the younger generation in their responsible role of public reporting.”

Similar courses will be held in Naryn and Talas on 16-18 May, Osh and Batken on 19-21 May, and Jalal-Abad on 26-28 May. A training session in Bishkek is also planned.

Participants will also receive editorial mentoring for eight months until the end of November, which will be reflected in website www.aimaknews.kloop.kg.

The event is part of the OSCE Centre’s project “Media Pluralism and Independence: Training on Ethics and Standards of Journalism”.