OSCE human rights talk shows to be broadcast live on Azerbaijani TV

BAKU, 9 October 2002 - Beginning this Saturday, Azerbaijan's first independent TV station, ANS, will broadcast live a series of radio talk shows on human rights issues. The talk shows were initiated by the OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and the OSCE Office in Baku to raise awareness on human rights and fundamental freedoms among the citizens of Azerbaijan.

"Projects on human rights awareness are a novelty in Azerbaijan and the issues discussed during the talk shows are very important for the country", said Seyfulla Mustafaev, General Director of ANS TV. "Live TV broadcasting will significantly broaden the audience and give a chance for more people to directly address their human rights concerns to government officials and NGOs".

The TV station decided broadcast the programmes in response to the great public interest generated by the first talk shows which were aired on radio in September. Each talk show focuses on, and illustrates, a particular human rights topic and provides practical information on how to exercise these rights.

"These programmes will also help to look at people's attitudes to their civil rights and responsibilities and how these relate to their daily lives", Mr. Mustafayev said.

Starting from 12 October, the radio talk shows will be broadcast on TV every Saturday from 20.00 to 21.00 (17.00-18.00GMT). ANS TV also broadcasts via satellite, providing an opportunity for Azeri speakers throughout the world to watch the programmes.

The dates and the topics of the TV talk shows are as follows:

12.10.02- Human rights situation in Nardaran19.10.02- Freedom of religion in Azerbaijan26.10.02- Accountability of the government 02.10.02- Street children and child prostitution