92001E3262

WRITTEN QUESTION E-3262/01

by Gary Titley (PSE) to the Commission

(23 November 2001)

Subject: Freedom of the media in Georgia

A year ago, the Republic of Georgia's television channel, Rustavi 2, broadcast a '60 Minutes' programme, which exposed widespread corruption in the country and pointed an accusing finger at President Shevardnadze. Since then, the television station claims that it has been subjected to a concerted campaign of intimidation by state officials, including a string of lawsuits and investigations into alleged financial irregularities.

Despite this pressure, Rustavi 2 has continued to broadcast and still enjoys a large viewing audience. Moreover, it has reiterated its determination to maintain its current broadcasting policy of total independence from the state.

Is the Commission aware of the current difficulties faced by the Rustavi 2 television channel? Has the Commission made any representations to the Georgian Government about the importance of free and independent media in a democratic society?

Answer given by Mr Patten on behalf of the Commission

(19 December 2001)

The Commission is fully aware of the situation regarding the Georgian television channel Rustavi 2, including the links between recent developments at Rustavi 2 and street demonstrations in Tbilisi that culminated in a major political crisis in Georgia on 1 November 2001.

The Commission has already expressed to the President of Georgia the need for the new Government to conduct reforms and to fight effectively against corruption.

Freedom of the press in Georgia was addressed at Ministerial level on the occasion of the Union-Georgia Cooperation Council that took place in Luxembourg on 30 October 2001.

The Commission will continue to support Georgia in its commitment to consolidate democratic institutions, the rule of law, the respect of human rights and the market economy. Freedom of the press remains at the very heart of such commitment.