Georgia`s government prepares new restrictions for media
Photo: New media restrictions to be introduced in Georgia (Getty Images)
Representatives of the ruling party in Georgia, Georgian Dream, have initiated a new draft law to tighten restrictions on media. Changes may be made to the broadcasting law, according to Radio Svoboda and SOVA.
According to the proposed amendments by Georgian lawmakers, the Communications Commission will have the authority to fine TV and radio stations. Previously, this responsibility was not within the scope of the commission’s self-regulation.
Reasons for potential fines
The Georgian Communications Commission would be empowered to warn and fine broadcasters if they:
- Fail to adhere to the principles of fairness and impartiality when reporting news (the bill does not clarify what these terms specifically mean).
- Do not maintain balance when covering issues in the news.
- Broadcast interviews or phone conversations without prior warning (except in cases where open recording is impossible).
- Invite only one guest on a topical program and use this to attack a person who is not participating in the program.
- Do not indicate the source of information and, if the source is anonymous, fail to clearly state this.
Currently, Georgian broadcasters are required to address such violations through self-regulation mechanisms but are not required to pay fines.
The new amendments to the Broadcasting Law introduce restrictions where anchors and journalists will be prohibited from expressing their views on information programs or when covering other issues of state policy.
Additionally, the standards for author programs will be revised and defined by law.
The ruling party Georgian Dream and its satellite party Power of the People have already initiated amendments to the Broadcasting Law.
Previously, the pro-government Georgian Dream also planned to adopt a media law (Media Law). According to parliamentary leader Mamuka Mdinaradze, this new regulation follows the British model.
The law aims to establish standards of objectivity for the media and journalistic ethics, and define the mechanism for monitoring and ensuring media standards.
Opposition channels in Georgia were threatened with fines for refusing to air ads for the ruling party.
Additionally, in February, a trial took place in Georgia regarding singer Nino Katamadze, who was accused of violating protest organization regulations. The well-known artist was sentenced.
