The OSCE will very attentive monitor the developments concerning the freedom of the media and the freedom of expression in the Republic of Moldova during the next few months. It is very important to really ensure pluralism, diversity in the media, especially before the campaign prior to the parliamentary elections of February 24, 2019, the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Harlem Désir stated in a news conference held at the end of his three-day visit to Moldova, IPN reports.

During his visit, the Representative met with representatives of the government, the opposition and with journalists and took part in the Media Forum. As a result of the held discussions, he called on the Moldovan authorities to put more efforts into strengthening media freedom and pluralism in the country. “I was surprised to see a large number of journalistic initiatives designed to encourage the development of the media. They really want the right to freedom of expression to be protected so as to encourage diversity,” said Harlem Desir.

According to the Representative, the new Code of Audiovisual Media Services contains provisions on transparency and limitation of the number of channels that would belong to one person, but these were never fully implemented. He encouraged the authorities to examine the challenges for media freedom and pluralism posed by the high degree of concentration of media ownership, which is detrimental to the diversity of voices and the development of independent media.

Regarding the legislative amendments on access to information, and the draft law on personal data protection, Désir took note of concerns of investigative journalists regarding provisions that may introduce undue restrictions on the legitimate work of journalists who report on corruption issues.

“Access to information and reporting on issues of public interest should not be obstructed by administrative obstacles that may serve to shield individuals, including public authorities, from legitimate investigative reporting,” Désir said.

The Representative further encouraged the authorities to refrain from undue interference in media activities in their efforts aimed at countering disinformation and propaganda, and recalled the need to ensure the free flow of information in compliance with OSCE commitments.

“The best answer to propaganda and disinformation is quality journalism, journalists working with high professional standards and the development of independent media. In the era of fake news and disinformation, journalists have a very high level of responsibility,” said Harlem Desir.