OSCE media watchdog concerned over situation in Tajikistan

VIENNA, 5 September 2005 - The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Miklos Haraszti, has said he is concerned about the fate of independent media in Tajikistan because the majority of the independent papers are not published.

In a letter addressed to the country's Foreign Minister Talbak Nazarov, Haraszti urged the Government to ensure that independent media were allowed to operate freely, and that pluralism in broadcasting was guaranteed through the issuance of new licences.

He referred to the newspapers Ruzi Nav, Nerui Suhan, Odamu Olan, and Adolat, as well as the printing houses Jyonhon and Kayho.

"I have to ask you to urgently reverse the situation," said Haraszti, recalling that over the past year he raised this matter several times with the Tajik authorities.

Speaking about the lack of new broadcasting licences in Tajikistan, the OSCE Representative said that these licences have not been issued, "despite the numerous requests, despite the obvious need for more plurality, and despite the fact that the aim of the new licensing regime is to enhance plurality."

The letter also raises the question of the imprisonment of local journalist Jumaboy Tolibov.