Recommendations adopted at Free Media conference

ZAGREB, 2 March 2001 - The Conference on Free Media in South Eastern Europe, organized by the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, the Council of Europe and the OSCE Mission to Croatia, ended Friday following a three-day debate on the media situation in the region.

A set of recommendations has been adopted by the conference, with the main emphasis on promoting freedom of expression and the protection of journalists against attacks and other forms of harassment.

The participants called upon all institutions responsible to take measures to ensure that any such attacks are investigated and those responsible prosecuted. The media, on the other hand, should refrain from promoting violence, discrimination, intolerance and hatred and take measures to promote reconciliation and mutual understanding among all people regardless of their nationality, religion or race.

The conference gathered media professionals from most countries in South-eastern Europe. It provided insight into the differences and similarities throughout the region. Through debate and discussions, participants were able to exchange ideas and promote reconciliation and interethnic tolerance. Organizers hope that the participants of the conference will build upon these experiences and take steps to implement these recommendations in their respective countries.

For more information, please contact Alessandro Fracassetti, Spokesperson, OSCE Mission to Croatia, Florijana Andraseca 14, 10 000 Zagreb, tel.: +385 1 3096 620, fax: + 385 1 3096 297, e-mail: osce-croatia@oscecro.org