OSCE media freedom representative welcomes print media privatization law in Ukraine

VIENNA, 24 November 2015 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today welcomed the adoption of a law in Ukraine which paves the way for abandoning state and communal ownership of print media outlets.

“This long-awaited law is a major step forward in advancing media freedom and pluralism in the country,” Mijatović said, noting the widespread support for the law from the journalistic community and civil society in Ukraine.

On 24 November, the Verkhovna Rada (parliament) adopted the law “On reforming state and communal print mass media”,  which will give priority to editorial teams to take over ownership of state and communal print media. The legislation will come into force on 1 January 2016,

“The law will help local print media in Ukraine to develop,” Mijatović said. “Its implementation will create a competitive environment for media outlets and ensure the independence of their editorial and management policies from interference by public authorities.”

Mijatović had previously called on the Ukrainian authorities to adopt a law on privatization of the media, including print media outlets.

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. She provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.