Diplomatic Missions and International Organisations are concerned about the reorganization of Chisinau public broadcasting institutions

The diplomatic missions and the international organisations accredited to Moldova are concerned regarding the reorganization of the Chisinau public broadcasting institutions Radio Antena-C and Euro-TV Chisinau. This fact is mentioned in a joint statement on the reforms in Moldova’s broadcast sector. It is signed by 8 diplomatic mission and 3 international organizations. The signers urge all those involved to find a solution that ensures the continued functioning of both institutions, drawing on their experienced staff. The reorganization process should not result in a reduction of pluralism in the country’s media landscape nor should it deprive citizens of access to comprehensive and impartial information and public services, like, for example, debates on local politics. According to the cited source, free, independent and pluralistic broadcast media are crucial for the development of a functioning democracy and, thus, for the Republic of Moldova’s declared goal of European integration. The statement reminds about the commitments undertaken by the Republic of Moldova to develop truly vibrant and free media under the EU-Moldova European Neighbourhood Action Plan. The responsible authorities are urged to ensure that the reforms currently underway in the Republic of Moldova’s broadcast sector will result in tangible improvements in this field. In the same document is mentioned that the new Broadcast Code, if implemented in good faith and in the spirit of common Euro-Atlantic values, represents a fine beginning for the conduct of these reforms. “We are concerned that a unique chance for real progress might be missed if proper implementation is not assured”, is also said in the statement cited by Info-Prim Neo. The Parliament is urged to ensure that the new members of Teleradio Moldova’s Supervisory Board be selected in a transparent manner, based on merit and professional experience. The statement was signed by the Embassy of Bulgaria, Czech Republic, France, Federal Republic of Germany, Romania, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, as well as by the Delegation of the European Commission to the Republic of Moldova, Special Representative of the Secretary General of the Council of Europe and OSCE Mission to Moldova.