OSCE media freedom representative welcomes new media legislation, visits convicted journalist in Skopje

SKOPJE, 12 February 2014 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today stressed the need for an inclusive and effective implementation of recently adopted media laws and a functioning self-regulatory system as she ended a three-day visit to Skopje.

Mijatović met with Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski and Ivo Ivanovski, Minister for Information Society and Administration, to discuss reforming public service broadcasting, defamation legislation and advertising by public bodies. Another subject for discussion was the implementation of the recently adopted media laws.

“These are good laws. Experts from my Office worked with the authorities in the drafting process,” Mijatović said. “I welcome the fact that most of our substantive comments have been incorporated.”

“It is a positive development that the media community was consulted in the drafting process of the laws," Mijatović said. “Engagement is the only way to improve the media situation.”

Mijatović called for an implementation process that would promote independence and ensure a plurality of opinions in media. She also pointed to functional self-regulation as an important tool to strengthen journalism.

“I support and look forward to the establishment of an inclusive and independent self-regulatory system”, Mijatović said.

In meetings with civil society and media representatives, Mijatović emphasized the need for solidarity on issues of common concern.

Mijatović also met with journalist Tomislav Kežarovski, who is under house arrest.

“I am pleased that Kežarovski now is able to be at home and that the authorities facilitated my visit with him. I will continue to closely follow his case,” Mijatović said.