People’s Advocate for the Rights of the Child Is Concerned About the Exploitation of Children’s Images by Parties for Political Promotion

Ombudsman Maia Bănărescu has shared  the concerns of  the Press Council about the exploitation of children’s images for political promotion and about some journalists’ failure to respect children’s right to privacy and confidentiality, dignity, and right to opinion. According to a press release, the ombudsman advises political parties, public authorities, and parents not to use or expose children for the purpose of gaining personal benefits.

Maia Bănărescu said that her appeal to political parties and public authorities is also valid for media outlets, which are called not to report on such topics where children are involved.

Moreover, Maia Bănărescu reaffirmed the recommendation to respect children’s right to have an opinion and to be consulted, journalists to obtain a child’s consent before interviews or filming, and to respect the right of every child to confidentiality.

Among other things, the ombudsman mentioned that she had proposed amending the law in order to impose the obligation for organizers of mass events, especially parties or political organizations, to prove that the minors attend their public actions voluntarily and not forced by anyone.

Earlier, the Press Council called on the People’s Advocate to take a stand on the fact that on the eve of the Orthodox Easter some politicians and parties displayed in social media or in the press photos in which they give presents to poor families, including children.

The Press Council condemned such acts of political promotion and appealed to media outlets not to publish photos with politicians who give presents to socially vulnerable children, or to protect children’s identity by means of photo editing and proper formulation of texts.