The Statement of Coalition for Media Advocacy on the Current Situation in Georgian Public Broadcaster

On October 4^th, 2013, Coalition for Media Advocacy released a statement, responding (regarding) to the situation in the Georgian Public Broadcaster:

The Statement of Coalition for Media Advocacy on the Current Situation in Georgian Public Broadcaster

04.10.2013

Coalition for Media Advocacy admits that the situation in the Georgian Public Broadcaster has reached alarming levels.

Two members of the GPB Board of Trustees wrote the resignation letter. Other members of the Board consider that the pressure that has been put upon the board gave rise to their decision. Several members of the Board publicly spoke about the pressure they have faced. Seven Trustees remaining on the Board are not authorized to make decisions. After the dismissal of the General Director, the GPB is managed by acting Director. The process of shutting down the programs and selecting new projects is not transparent and is conducted without any consultations with public. Based on the official statement, the Georgian Public Broadcaster is experiencing a severe financial crisis that poses a threat to proper functioning of the channel.

The current situation once again confirms that the reform, initiated by the Coalition for Media Advocacy, should to be carried out in the GPB. Coalition initiative has been reflected in the Law on Broadcasting, which, along with other issues, comprises the new rules for the formation of the Board of Trustees that should be entered into force since January 1, 2014.

Coalition for Media Advocacy considers that:

• Pressure on the members of the GPB Board of Trustees and interference in GPB independent operations should be stopped;
• Facts of pressure upon the members of the GPB Board of Trustees and interference with the work of the GPB should be investigated;
• Crisis situation in the GPB should not lead to the changes in planned reform principles and deadlines;
• Georgian government should use all the legal means in order to overcome the financial crisis and to prevent from hindering the continuous operation of the GPB.