ArmInfo.According to European experts, the current law "On Television and Radio" is outdated, and its provisions aimed at freedom of the media are unsatisfactory. This was announced on January 16 by the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Television, Radio, Press and Information of the NA Standing Committee on Science, Education, Culture, Diaspora, Youth and Sports, MP of the "My Step" Faction Vahagn Tevosyan during the parliamentary hearings on legislative changes in the field audiovisual media.
Tevosyan informed that international experts have repeatedly noted the need for television companies to ensure the transparency of their financial flows and disclose the names of owners. In this regard, as was noted, the legislation should be tightened. In addition, the deputy drew attention to the monopolization of the advertising market, which puts television companies in unequal conditions.
Speaking about the National Commission on Television and Radio, Tevosyan drew attention to the fact that her powers are insufficient to apply sanctions against broadcasters that intentionally violate the current legislation. It was emphasized that freedom of speech should not be restricted in any way, however, television companies must ensure pluralism of opinions, and otherwise be held accountable.
The deputy pointed out the importance of providing the Commission with the authority to establish age limits for television programs, as well as to respond to cases of copyright infringement, the principles of freedom of speech, the glorification of criminal elements and the promotion of violence against women and children. At the same time, the level of influence of the Commission on the process of issuing broadcasting licenses to relevant economic entities should be limited.
Tevosyan also noted that today regional TV companies are facing the task of financial and technical development. Meanwhile, according to him, the creation of regional multiplexes is problematic, and can cause serious political "appetites". In this regard, it is proposed to pay attention to the possibility of the formation of interregional multiplexes. As for the possibility of creating private multiplexes with a republican cover, this issue, due to its complexity, can only be discussed in the future.
According to him, the proposals will be presented in more detail when the draft legislative changes are ready.