European journalists’ and broadcasters’ organisations criticise Czech public media bill

The European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) has joined its member, the Czech Syndicate of Journalists, in strongly opposing the Czech governing coalition’s attempt to enforce a bill that it says poses a serious threat to the independence of Czech public service media.

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has also expressed concern, with ten other European and international organisations joining its statement.

The EBU said the accelerated parliamentary proceedings in the Chamber of Deputies raised questions about whether there was sufficient time for proper legislative scrutiny and public debate on a bill that it believes will affect the future of Czech public service media.

Like the EFJ, it called on MPs to examine the proposal thoroughly and ensure open parliamentary debate and consultations with Czech Television, Czech Radio, media representatives, experts and the public.