Croatian prisons to improve relations with media

ZAGREB, 13 December 2000 - Croatian prisons will improve their relations with the media in an attempt to increase transparency of the prison system. This was the main result of a meeting of prison governors in Zagreb on 12-13 December, organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and the Croatian Ministry of Justice.

"We want prison governors to co-operate more actively with journalists," said Dr. Vjekoslav Jazbec, Assistant Minister of Justice in charge of the prison administration. "Unfortunately legislation is very restrictive, but we hope that this will be changed. Prison governors should have the authority to discuss certain topics with the media without having to obtain permission from the Minister before."

During the two-day workshop, the governors received training on how to professionally deal with the media. The participation of an experienced Croatian TV journalist in the meeting was a first step in overcoming the atmosphere of distrust that prevailed between the prison system and the media. As another concrete measure, the governors recommended the appointment of a press officer within the prison administration who will be tasked with systematically developing sustainable relations with the media.

For further information contact Mr. Jens-Hagen Eschenbächer, OSCE/ODIHR Public Affairs Officer, at +48-22-5200600-4162 or +48-603683122 (mobile).