OSCE media freedom representative welcomes new Macedonian broadcast law

VIENNA, 11 November 2005 - Miklos Haraszti, the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, lauded the new Law on Broadcast Activity, passed Wednesday at a Parliamentary session in Skopje, to regulate the private broadcasting industry, as well as the functioning of the public service broadcaster, MRTV.

"The long-awaited Broadcast Law is an important step in completing the reformed media legislation," said Haraszti. "It is in line with OSCE media freedom standards and therefore an important step for the country on its way to Europe."

The new law, which is a result of close co-operation between the OSCE, the Government, the Stability Pact for South Eastern Europe, the Council of Europe and the European Commission, integrated most of the recommendations from the international community. It will ensure an effective Broadcast Council and establish a system for the independent functioning of the public broadcaster.

The OSCE Mission in Skopje, especially its Head of Mission Ambassador, Carlos Pais, and the Head of the Media Development Unit, Sally Broughton, provided support and expertise to the authorities during the development of the Law.

Miklos Haraszti took a personal interest in the process during his recent visit to Skopje, which will be reflected in his upcoming report on the situation of media freedom in the country.

The Representative said that the new law was only the beginning of a longer-term effort for establishing a modern public service broadcasting institution. "By experience we know, that the introductory phase is crucial. I hope the Government will continue to muster the necessary support to convincingly implement the law," added Haraszti.