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VIRAL EXCLUSIVE
July 1, 2024
Slovakia's Public Broadcasting Law Controversy
The EBU has said it is “highly concerned” over proposed changes by the Slovak government to Radio and Television Slovakia (RTVS) which threatens its editorial independence. By: K Dass.
Slovakia’s
parliament recently approved a government-led revamp and leadership change at
public broadcaster RTVS. However, concerns have arisen that these changes could
compromise media freedom and independence.
“This appears
to be a thinly veiled attempt to turn the Slovak public service broadcaster
into state-controlled media,” said EBU Director General Noel Curran.
“That would
be a dangerous step backwards for democracy and for freedom of expression.
Independent, objective public service media serves as the cornerstone of a
healthy society, providing citizens with diverse perspectives and holding those
in power to account.”
Legislation
Overview
The new law
aims to replace RTVS’s director years before their term expires.
A nine-member
supervisory council, appointed by the culture minister and parliament, will be
responsible for filling the director’s position.
RTVS will
also undergo a name change to Slovak Television and Radio (STVR).
Concerns
The European
Federation of Journalists (EFJ) and the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) view
the bill’s approval, without public consultation, as detrimental to democracy
and media freedom in Slovakia. Besides, the new legislation risks transforming
public media into government propaganda outlets, contrary to European legal
standards.
Presidential
Veto
The biggest
opposition party, Progressive Slovakia (PS), plans to appeal the law to the
Constitutional Court. The EFJ urges President Peter Pellegrini to veto the
contested bill, emphasising the need to uphold media independence and
pluralism.
The situation
in Slovakia highlights the delicate balance between government control and
media autonomy. However, the President’s decision will play a crucial role in
shaping the future of public broadcasting in the country.
