OSCE Representative emphasizes crucial link between democracy and media freedom
Title: OSCE Representative Raises Concerns Over Deteriorating Media Freedom in Central Asia
Publication Date: July 6, 2023
Source: 24.kg news agency
Author: Aigul KUVATOVA
In a recent statement, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Teresa Ribeiro, highlighted the essential role of independence and freedom of the media in maintaining a thriving democracy. Ribeiro made these remarks at the 24th Central Asia Media Conference held in Bishkek.
During her address, Ribeiro expressed her concerns about the declining state of freedom of speech in all countries across Central Asia. She emphasized that as journalists face increasing pressures, the concept of democracy itself becomes compromised. Ribeiro’s statement underlined the significance of preserving media freedom.
Ribeiro further elaborated on the challenges faced by the media in the Central Asian region. She highlighted the passage of controversial laws, the rise of attacks against media freedom and freedom of expression, physical assaults on journalists, and the prevalence of online harassment campaigns. Ribeiro also mentioned the targeting of journalists investigating corruption and other sensitive subjects of public interest.
Altynbek Maksutov, the Minister of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic, echoed these concerns by emphasizing the threat posed by fake information in Kyrgyzstan and Central Asia as a whole. Maksutov stressed the need for Central Asian countries to collaborate in combatting inaccurate and false information to protect national and information security, as well as social stability. He assured that Kyrgyzstan would continue implementing measures to strengthen freedom of speech.
Moreover, the article referenced the case of Radio Azattyk, blocked by the Ministry of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy under the law “On Protection from False (Inaccurate) Information” authored by Gulshat Asylbayeva. The ministry initially blocked the website of Radio Azattyk due to a video by Current Time media outlet, which reported on an armed clash on the border with Tajikistan. Subsequently, the ministry filed a lawsuit against Azattyk, seeking the complete cessation of its activities in Kyrgyzstan. In April 2023, the Leninsky District Court of Bishkek ruled in favor of terminating Azattyk Media institution’s activities.
The concerns raised by OSCE Representative Teresa Ribeiro, along with the statements made by Minister Altynbek Maksutov, underscore the urgent need for Central Asian countries to prioritize and protect media freedom. Efforts to combat fake information while upholding freedom of speech are crucial in fostering transparent and open societies, ensuring the continued growth of democracy in the region.
