OSCE Office commemorates National Press Day in Azerbaijan

BAKU, 22 July 2005 - Congratulating the Azerbaijani media on the occasion of the 130th anniversary of National Press Day, the OSCE Office in Baku today underlined the importance of a free media environment for the democratic future of Azerbaijan.

"Issues related to the freedom of the media are a priority in the activities of the OSCE Office in Baku," said Robin Seaword, the Deputy Head of the OSCE Office in Baku, in his address to representatives of Azerbaijani media.

"This event is a reminder of the vital importance of free and independent media to Azerbaijani democracy."

Miklos Haraszti, the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, attending the event, congratulated all those who have participated in the progress made in Azerbaijan in strengthening freedom of expression. He presented a report on media freedom in the country, prepared by his Office following an assessment visit which took place from 11 to 15 April this year.

Commenting on the findings of the report, he said: "We see certain positive developments, but press freedom is fragile and can be lost if we are not vigilant and firm in our resolve to protect it."

"Much has to be accomplished," Haraszti added. "The adoption of the law on freedom of information, the transformation of State Channel 1 into a public TV channel and the establishment of an adequate legal and institutional framework for licensing new private broadcasters are among the needs, but more is required."

The report describes the current state of media freedom in Azerbaijan and provides the authorities with practical recommendations to improve the situation.

22 July is commemorated as National Press Day in Azerbaijan, as the first national publication, the Akinchi (The Plowman) newspaper, came out on this day in 1875 under the editorship of the great Azerbaijani public figure Hasan Bey Zardabi.