OSCE supports development of module on freedom of expression for journalists in Turkmenistan

A two-day seminar organized by the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat on how to develop a module on freedom of expression for journalism faculties in Turkmenistan concluded on 29 August 2018. It brought together journalism instructors, representatives of national media and officials from relevant institutions.

The seminar covered international and regional documents addressing access to information and freedom of expression as well as principles of professional ethics of journalists.  International experts presented approaches to media regulation and self-regulation, elaborating on information reliability as a principle of media regulation.

The rights and duties of journalists and information transparency of state institutions were also discussed. Further topics included trends in journalism education, its concept and factors affecting the methods of teaching legal basis of journalism and other related subjects. The seminar participants analysed case studies relating to freedom of expression and journalism ethics.

“The National Human Rights Action Plan of Turkmenistan (NHRAP) for 2016-2020 envisages a number of provisions related to the freedom of the media, including the development of a module on freedom of expression for journalism faculties at institutions of higher education,” said the Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, Natalya  Drozd.

“As freedom of expression is a cornerstone of a democratic state, the OSCE is undertaking various activities to safeguard the rights of journalists and freedom of expression across the region. The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat welcomed the inclusion of the activities aimed at promoting the freedom of the media in the NHRAP and stands ready to continue its support during their implementation,” Drozd said.