OSCE media representative notes need for improvement in proposed Moldovan audiovisual legislation

VIENNA, 12 May 2014 – OSCE Media Freedom Representative Dunja Mijatović today expressed concern about several proposed amendments to the Moldovan audiovisual legislation.

“Many of the provisions proposed lack clarity, overlap with each other and fail to reflect the interests of all stakeholders,” Mijatović wrote in a letter to Igor Corman, Chair of the Parliament of Moldova, while presenting a legal review of the amendments commissioned by her Office.

Mijatović said that the review approves of the procedure for choosing candidates for the regulatory authority, the stricter ownership transparency requirements and the must-carry obligations.

“At the same time, I note a number of shortcomings with other parts of the amendments,” Mijatović wrote. They include amendments relating to moderating debates and dealing with undesirable statements in broadcasting, as well as restrictions on unverified or confidential information.

The Representative reiterated her readiness to assist in bringing the proposed legislation in line with international standards and OSCE media freedom commitments.

“I am pleased that the Moldovan authorities are working proactively on these issues, it is encouraging that they approached my office and asked for the legal review to be carried out,” Mijatović said.

The full text of the legal review is available at //www.osce.org/fom/118395

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. She 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 facebook.com/osce.rfom.