OSCE media freedom representative welcomes legislative steps taken by Ukraine to strengthen media pluralism

VIENNA, 12 July 2013 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Dunja Mijatovic, today welcomed the decision by Ukraine’s parliamentary assembly, the Verkhovna Rada, to adopt in its first reading the law on public television and radio.

“Independent public service broadcasters are indispensable to ensure media pluralism and a free flow of information in society, and I welcome this long-awaited positive development in Ukraine,” Mijatovic said.

The draft law was adopted by the Verkhovna Rada on 3 July by majority vote and with the support of opposition parties.

“I hope the discussions over the draft law will continue with the involvement of opposition parties and civil society organizations, and that their recommendations will be considered before the final adoption of the law,” she added.

The Representative encouraged the Ukrainian authorities to create a legally protected broadcasting structure with guaranteed editorial autonomy and sustainable financing, giving it independence from both political and commercial interests.

Mijatovic also welcomed the decision on 4 July by the Verkhovna Rada to adopt a law that provides for transparency of media ownership.

“It is of paramount importance to avoid the abuse of media power and to ensure a pluralistic media environment in all its aspects,” Mijatovic said.

“I am pleased to see these developments during the Ukrainian OSCE Chairmanship, since media freedom is one of its priorities. I hope that these laws will be adopted and enforced before the end of the year. My Office stands ready to assist Ukraine in continuing its media legislation reform,” she concluded.