Freedom Forum had a role in conceptualising the bill to promote the role of public service broadcasters.
This statement was originally published on freedomforum.org.np on 11 September 2024.
Freedom Forum is pleased to share a legislative development on a much awaited media law that was advocated for two decades in Nepal.
The Bill on Public Service Broadcasting (PSB) has been passed by the federal parliament, thereby paving the way to transform the State-owned media – Radio Nepal and Nepal Television – according to the PSB.
Freedom Forum feels proud that its continuous advocacy since 2007 has been realized. Irrespective of the provisions that do not meet international standards, the passage of the PSB law is a milestone for transforming the State-owned media.
“Passage of the PSB bill from Nepal’s parliament is a milestone on media development and lawmaking in this sector. Still, there are some provisions to be standardized. But the progress made by the parliament carries much significance for further development in the media sector,” commented the Executive Chief of Freedom Forum, Mr Taranath Dahal, adding that the transformation of the two different State media entities – Radio Nepal and Nepal Television – would be unified to function as public service broadcasters.
Indeed the Freedom Forum had been actively involved in the initiation of the concept of the PSB in Nepal, via the engagement of national and international stakeholders, advocacy with parliament, and sharing its expertise on the matter. From conceptualising a model PSB bill to making the lawmakers aware, FF’s unwavering efforts have now been realized.
Now onwards, FF sees two responsibilities: a) taking into implementation the newly brought PSB law, and b) continuing efforts to better the provisions in the law.
FF is keenly observing the transition – the Bill will be translated into Law after the President certifies it, and enforcement goes ahead.
