Strengthen the framework governing the freedom of the media

Popular Participation and Accountability

1/1/2017-30/6/2018

Office of the Minister for Media Affairs

Status quo or problem addressed by the commitment

Both the National Human Rights Plan and the National Integrity System’s Operation Plan affirmed the need to review and revise the legislative framework governing the work of media outlets and the harmonization of national legislation and policies related to the right of freedom of expression and freedom of opinion with the provisions of the Constitution. In addition, there is a need to take measures to address issues related to the licensing of media outlets and to regulate the media sector in a way that strengthens the right to freedom of opinion and expression and ensures the public’s right to know. This commitment aims at addressing the effects stemming from the rapid expansion of the media sector, the emergence of electronic media on a widespread scale, and the need for regulatory and legislative tools that correspond with such growth.

Main objective

Ensure the independence of the media and protection of the right of expression.

Brief description of commitment

Design and implement a technical framework to define best practices that should be applied to strengthen the freedom of the press. This shall include the creation of a package of legislative amendments to be submitted to the Parliament.

OPG challenge addressed by the commitment

Strengthen media and public freedoms.