Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Mass media NGOs ask new Government to reform media landscape in Moldova and ensure freedom of expression in the country

Leading mass media non-governmental organizations recently sent a letter of requests and recommendations to the legislative committee on culture, education, research, sports, and mass media and to Speaker and interim President Mihai Ghimpu.

The letter includes five recommendations: reforming the public television and radio stations, which have often been accused of being pro-Communist; reforming the Broadcasting Coordinating Council, which releases and withdraws broadcasting licenses in the country and has in the past been accused of favoring pro-Communist media outlets; reducing state involvement in the mass media; stimulating the development of an independent press; and implementing legislative reform.

Ties between independent media outlets and the former Communist Government (2001-2009) have often been hostile. Officials restricted access to information and favored the pro-Governmental press. In addition, independent journalists have often been persecuted, especially after the mass protests on April 6 and 7. The new Government has pledged to improve this situation.

h/t www.unimedia.md

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