(ARTICLE 19/IFEX) – The following is an ARTICLE 19 press release: ARTICLE 19 PUBLISHES ACCESS TO THE AIRWAVES – STANDARD-SETTING PRINCIPLES ON FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION AND BROADCAST REGULATION ARTICLE 19 has just published the latest edition of its International Standards Series, Access to the Airwaves, a set of Principles to provide guidance on how to […]
(ARTICLE 19/IFEX) – The following is an ARTICLE 19 press release:
ARTICLE 19 PUBLISHES ACCESS TO THE AIRWAVES – STANDARD-SETTING PRINCIPLES ON FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION AND BROADCAST REGULATION
ARTICLE 19 has just published the latest edition of its International Standards Series, Access to the Airwaves, a set of Principles to provide guidance on how to implement a system of broadcast regulation which is consistent with international standards on freedom of expression and which promotes a diverse and pluralistic broadcast sector.
Broadcasting is by far the most important source of information, as well as of entertainment, for most people around the world. As a result of its centrality as a source of information and news, governments in many countries have historically sought to control broadcasting. In addition, its
growing profitability means that commercial players now also seek to control the markets.
Toby Mendel, Head of ARTICLE 19’s Law Programme said of the publication:
“These Principles elaborate practical standards on how to prevent regulation from becoming an instrument of government control but also to ensure that the broadcasting sector serves the interests of the public and to prevent commercial interests from becoming excessively dominant. We hope that the Principles will be useful for a wide range of actors, from lawyers seeking to challenge unduly restrictive regulatory regimes to activists seeking to change laws.”
The Principles are based on the premise that in a democratic society, freedom of expression must be guaranteed and may be subject only to narrowly drawn restrictions. They apply to specific regimes for the regulation of broadcasting but also apply more generally to State and even private action in this area. They recognise both the need for independent broadcasting, free of government or commercial interference, and the need in some areas for positive action to ensure a vibrant, diverse broadcasting sector. Among other issues, the Principles cover:
* broadcast licensing systems;
* independence of regulatory bodies;
* election coverage;
* restrictions on content; and
* transformation of State broadcasters into ‘true’ public service broadcasters.
Access to the Airwaves is on ARTICLE 19’s website:
www.article19.org/docimages/1289.htm. For copies e-mail: info@article19.org.
NOTE FOR EDITORS
1. These Principles are based on international and regional law and standards, evolving state practice (as reflected, inter alia, in national laws and judgments of national courts) and the general principles of law recognised by the community of nations. They are the product of a long process of study, analysis and consultation overseen by ARTICLE 19, drawing on extensive experience and work with partner organisations in many countries around the world.
2. ARTICLE 19 is happy to accept endorsements of the Principles. Contact law@article19.org.
