OSCE media freedom representative says developments in Lithuania harmful to freedom of expression

VIENNA, 10 October 2013 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović expressed her concern today about the Radio and Television Commission’s decision to suspend the broadcasting of the First Baltic Channel’s (PBK) programmes for three months in Lithuania.

“I call on the Commission to review the proposed measure as it undermines media pluralism. With full respect of the role and independence of the media regulator, any decision which puts a limit on media pluralism can negatively affect freedom of media and expression. Such an excessive measure must be restricted to instances of intentional and dangerous incitement to violence only,” Mijatović said.

The decision, which has yet to be enforced by the court, extends to all PBK’s programmes produced in Russia (they constitute about 70 per cent of the products aired). This followed the channel’s broadcast on 4 October of “Man and Law” document, on the tragic events on 13 January 1991 in Vilnius. Notwithstanding the court’s decision, the Commission also advised TV cable operators to suspend the broadcasting of these programmes of the First Baltic Channel.

“Any restriction and suppression of controversial and differing views on historical events, even if based on law, could eventually affect freedom of the media,” Mijatović said.