Functioning and sustainability of BiH public broadcasting system discussed at EU conference in Sarajevo

The conference focusing on achieving EU standards in the functioning and sustainability of the public broadcasting system (PBS) in Bosnia and Herzegovina took place in Sarajevo on 8 October 2015. Hosted by the Delegation of the EU to BiH/EU Special Representative and BH Journalists Association, the conference aimed to initiate a focused dialogue and identify actions to strengthen the service in the context of the country’s efforts along the EU path.

At a time when three public broadcasters in BiH face a myriad of challenges related to digitalisation, financial stability and political independence, and bearing in mind the importance of public media in a democratic society, it was essential to launch a dialogue on concrete steps in meeting the Copenhagen political criteria of accession, and the 2014 – 2020 European Commission Guidelines for EU support to media freedom and media integrity in enlargement countries.

 

In view of the European Commission 2014 Progress Report for BiH, particular focus was paid to the issue of non-implementation of the laws regulating the public service broadcasting system and all three public broadcasters. Increased engagement from both the legislative authority and the public broadcasters was seen as crucial in addressing these concerns.

Advancing the digitalisation process, increasing financial stability of the PBS, and securing independence of all three members of the PBS in BiH were identified as concrete priorities lying ahead.

Recognising public service media as an enabling environment for freedom of expression, the conference voiced the urgency of upholding basic principles of public service media in BiH, i.e. independence, accountability, transparency and sustainability.

The conference was attended by representatives of relevant ministries, parliamentary committees, regulators, management of public broadcasters, media experts and representatives of the media community in BiH.

Europa.ba