FREEDOM OF PRESS IN ARMENIA – INSIDE OUTLOOK
13:07 ~U 03.05.13
On the occasion of the World Press Freedom Day, Tert.am has talked
to well-known representatives of the sector to know their opinion on
the situation of freedom of speech and media in Armenia.
Hakob Avetikyan, a veteran journalist and the editor-in-chief of the
Yerevan-based newspaper Azg, says the press in Armenia is free as
much as it has the freedom to use abusive language.
“Freedom does not have to yield any result, and the freedom to
use a foul language does not mean such a freedom is effective,” he
said. “On the other hand, what is known as investigative journalism
has to push its way through all kinds of holes, expressing all the
secrets and informing the state, society and the people of different
matters. That we don’t have.”
Asked who is responsible such a superficial approach, the editor
said the present-day media market does not encourage a journalist to
perform his or her role appropriately.
“Everybody is to blame for this, both the authorities – whom we
can offer our in-depth approaches and criticism – and the media
specialists, as well as we, the journalists, especially the editors
and directors [of media outlets],” he said.
He stressed the need of joint efforts towards creating a favorable
media market. “We give our society today is not something I would
consider useful,” said the editor.
Avetikyan noted that the online media enjoy a higher degree of freedom
today compared to the print outlets, radio and television.
Speaking to our correspondent, Mesrop Harutyunyan, an expert at the
Committee to Protect Freedom of Speech, referred to the Freedom House’s
recent report which said Armenia has recorded a certain progress but
fell short of meeting the free state requirements.
“Media outlets keep facing lawsuits filed predominantly by officials
and parliament members,” he said, noting that the fact confirms that
the media keep facing restrictions in Armenia.
Armenian News – Tert.am
From: A. Papazian