PACE spokesperson calls upon official Minsk not to adopt the new law on mass media

• 1.07.2008, 15:42

Mr Andrea Rigoni, PACE Rapporteur on the Situation in Belarus, has addressed the Belarusian authorities with a request to suspend considering the law on mass media.

“The draft law on mass media causes my serious concern. I call upon Belarusian regime to stop further consideration of this draft law and its implementation,” RIA Novosti quotes Rigoni’s statement.

“After coming into force, the draft law on mass media would limit the freedom of information in Belarus even more, especially when electronic mass media are concerned; and widen possibilities of authorities to interfere with activities of mass media, which contradicts European standards. Moreover, before the new law’s coming into force, it will have a negative influence as a self-censorship of mass media. Considering the imminent parliamentary elections, it is another reason of concern,” the PACE representative informs.

“I call upon the Belarusian authorities to stop further consideration of this draft law and its implementation. Before continuing this process, wide and meaningful consultations with Belarusian human rights defending organisations and civil society are to take place, including representatives of independent mass media and such international organisations as the Council of Europe. It will be a wonderful chance for the Belarusian authorities to demonstrate sincere intention of rapprochement with Europe,’ Rigoni said.