2007 Press Releases Archive

Press release

JOINT STATEMENT: CONCERNS OVER FREEDOM OF THE MEDIA

Chisinau, 14 March 2007

We, the undersigned Embassies and International Organisations, recall the commitment undertaken by Moldova under the EU–Moldova Action Plan and other international agreements, including the call to the unrestricted flow of information enshrined in the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, to develop a truly vibrant and free media. Freedom of the media is the basis of a functioning democracy.

The upcoming local elections will be yet another test for Moldovan democracy and political leadership. We are concerned, on the eve of these elections, that the ability of the media to report and comment freely on the elections is becoming restricted. Furthermore, the functions of the regulatory bodies are not yet effective in guaranteeing the application of spirit of the law.

We note a worrying trend, beginning with the effect of reorganisation of Antena C and Euro TV, and continued with 103.5 FM in Balti. These actions clearly limit the space for the free flow of information. We fear this may have a negative impact on the freedom of the election campaign. Furthermore, Teleradio Moldova has made little progress towards becoming a truly independent public service broadcaster.

Without a correction in this trend, Moldova may not be able to meet its international obligations.

We attach great importance to freedom of expression and plurality of the media. A free, plural and independent media is essential to underpin the democratic process. We call on Moldova to adhere fully to its obligations to the OSCE, EU and Council of Europe as well as other international commitments.

We call on all bodies concerned to implement fully international standards on media freedom, so that the Moldovan people receive the free and unfettered the views of all sides in the election campaign.

Embassy of Bulgaria
Embassy of the Czech Republic
Embassy of France
Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany
Embassy of the Republic of Hungary
Embassy of the Republic of Lithuania
Embassy of the Republic of Poland
Embassy of Romania
Embassy of the Republic of Turkey
Embassy of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Embassy of the United States of America
Delegation of the European Commission to the Republic of Moldova
Special Representative of the Secretary General of the Council of Europe
OSCE Mission to Moldova