OSCE Media Freedom Representative launches exchange programme for young Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot journalists during visit to Nicosia
NICOSIA, 10 October 2017 – Harlem Désir, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, during his visit to Cyprus launched an exchange programme for young journalists from the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities in the next phase of his Office’s "The Cyprus Dialogue” project, which was initiated in March this year.
“I trust that this exchange program will be an experience that will allow young journalists to increase understanding in both communities about life in the other part of the island, and widen their professional network," Désir said, after having met with the 14 journalists who will participate in the week-long exchange.
“I am very pleased to visit Cyprus and see first-hand the essential role that the media play in the democratic processes on the island," Désir said. "In order for them to fulfil this role and inform the public about all issues of public interest, it is essential that they can do so in a free and safe manner."
The Representative also launched the development of a glossary of sensitive words used by the media, and recommendations for possible alternatives. A draft of the glossary will be presented early next year.
During his visit to Cyprus, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Harlem Désir met with senior politicians and officials.
In his meetings with President of the House of Representatives Demetris Syllouris, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Alexandros Zenon, and Deputy Government Spokesperson Victor Papadopoulos, the Representative discussed media freedom developments in the country.
Désir also met with the heads of journalist unions, the heads of Press Councils, journalists, bloggers and representatives of the civil society to discuss current issues affecting media freedom, the freedom of expression and quality journalism on the island.
“I offer the full assistance of my Office to the journalist community, civil society and the authorities in their efforts to strengthen quality journalism on the island. I trust that ‘The Cyprus Dialogue’ will continue to play an imperative role in these efforts,” he said.
The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He 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.