OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media commended Uzbekistan

OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media commends Uzbekistan

Reforms aimed at strengthening freedom of speech, ensuring the safety of journalists, and developing a modern media environment in Uzbekistan are becoming one of the important topics of international dialogue.

These issues were also the main focus during a meeting held in Vienna between a delegation of the Journalists' Association of Uzbekistan and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Representative on Freedom of the Media, Ambassador Jan Braathu.

During the meeting, it was emphasized that Uzbekistan attaches special importance to activities within the framework of OSCE institutions, in particular, the mandate of the Representative on Freedom of the Media.

The country's commitment to strengthening freedom of speech, developing the media sector, and fulfilling international obligations adopted within the OSCE framework was noted.

During the dialogue, special attention was paid to the reforms being carried out in the field of mass media in Uzbekistan. In particular, efforts to update national legislation regulating the information sphere, adapt it to international standards and modern technological requirements, and strengthen legal guarantees for the professional activities of journalists were discussed.

Jan Braathu noted the importance of initiatives in this direction, drawing attention to the fact that media reforms must be implemented in harmony with the principles of ensuring openness, transparency, and the professional independence of journalists.

The Chairman of the Journalists' Association of Uzbekistan, Shuhrat Oripov, provided information on the measures being taken to ensure the interests of journalists and provide financial support to the media. In particular, it was reported that a draft Code of Professional Ethics for Journalists of Uzbekistan has been developed and is currently under active discussion.

Touching upon the importance of this initiative, Jan Braathu emphasized the importance of strengthening the principles of professional responsibility, objectivity, and reliability in journalism, as well as strengthening the legal protection of journalists.

"This initiative is of relevant importance in terms of strengthening the criteria of professional responsibility, objectivity, and reliability in the information space, and developing professional standards of journalism. At the same time, Uzbekistan is taking a step forward in implementing the commitments outlined in OSCE Ministerial Council Decision No. 3/18 on the safety of journalists," said Jan Braathu.

During the dialogue, views were also exchanged on the efforts being implemented in this direction in Uzbekistan, including improving national legislation, strengthening the safety of journalists, and creating a favorable environment for their professional activities.

In addition, the delegation of the Journalists' Association of Uzbekistan held meetings with the heads of the Austrian Media Academy, the Vienna Forum Center for Journalism and Media, and the Association of Austrian Newspapers, and also got acquainted with the activities of the IMC University of Applied Sciences in the city of Krems.