“The charter will serve as a guide-post”
The heads of 11 Armenian TV companies today signed a charter on the principles of ethics of television and radio broadcasters of Armenia. Armenia, TV5, Armnews, H2 and ALM TV companies abstained from the signing ceremony.
Talking to A1+, Executive Director of the RA Public TV Armen Amiryan expressed hope that they would join the document later.
Political commentator of Kentron TV Petros Ghazaryan highlighted the document's implementation rather than its signature.
"The document is compliant with the country's Organic Law though I am sure it will not work unless a relevant environment is guaranteed. This is an attempt to create such an atmosphere in Armenia," said Mr. Ghazaryan.
"The charter does not impose any restrictions on TV companies. I disagree with people who think the document aims to exert pressure on media since there are many other means for it."
Asked whether the charter will be put into effect starting tomorrow, Mr. Ghazaryan said, "Of course, not. The document is merely the reflection of our desires. At least, we shall have a guide-post enabling us to detect lawbreakers."
President of Public Council Vazgen Manukyan thinks the charter will enable TV stations to monitor each other. "All TV companies will be under constant surveillance." Vazgen Manukyan does not share the belief that Armenian television has lost its image and degraded. "Our television has been bettering since 1988. The quality of freedom and information is improving year by year," he concluded.
