OSCE media freedom representative offers support to restore public broadcasting in Kyrgyzstan

VIENNA, 12 May 2010 - The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Dunja Mijatovic, today welcomed efforts by the interim Kyrgyz government to restore public service broadcasting (PSB), and offered support in this endeavour.

"I see the reinstatement of public service broadcasting as a vital guarantee for media pluralism," Mijatovic said, while commending the Decree issued by the interim government on 30 April to establish public service broadcasting in the country. "PSB can play a significant role, especially in the society which has been going through political turmoil, by offering fair and impartial information, providing objective news reporting and transmitting diverse, high-quality programming to the citizens," she added.

The Representative also emphasized the importance of creating a broadcasting framework that guarantees editorial autonomy, long-term sufficient funding and an independent oversight mechanism.

"I am pleased to learn that representatives of the civil society and media community are actively involved in the renewed efforts to restore public service broadcasting," Mijatovic said.

To support the process, the Office of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media has offered the interim authorities a legal analysis of the Decree on public broadcasting, including recommendations on how to ensure compliance with international standards and OSCE commitments.

"Together with the Kyrgyz authorities and the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, my Office is ready to assist with the reform of public service broadcasting and other media reforms as needed. As part of our support, we are now developing concrete plans for co-operation, and I look forward to discussing progress on their implementation during my forthcoming visit," she concluded.