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Ukrainian journalists urge the newly elected president to start mass media reforms

10 June 2014
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The journalists’ movement “Stop Censorship!” asked the newly elected president of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko to initiate reforms in the media field and to start them with the President’s office, mediafreedomwatch.org informs.

“We urge you to show good will and become open towards society. In particular, it means systematically meeting media representatives, holding press conferences at least once in a quarter and regularly reporting to the members of society about your actions. We hope that the principles of transparency and accountability will be essential to the new government,” the “Stop Censorship!” appeal said.

Journalists’ suggestions also concerned the creation of a public broadcaster, denationalization of mass media, media ownership transparency, liquidation of the National Commission for Protection of Public Morals, and independence of the National Council on Television and Radio Broadcasting.

“Stop Censorship!” reminded the newly elected president that “over the past six months, journalists have paid a very high price for the right of citizens to information.” Two journalists were killed, about 300 were injured, about 40 journalists were held hostage, and dozens have become refugees because of pressure, attacks and threats, mentions the quoted source.

“We want to believe that your election as President means new prospects for Ukraine. If you are really going to build a “new country”, as your election slogan said, then your duty is to implement media reforms, become open and accountable, guarantee the public’s right to information and ensure the right of journalists to work freely,” the appeal to Petro Poroshenko said.

The inauguration of the newly elected President of Ukraine took place on June 7th.

Source of photo: http://mediafreedomwatch.org