Threats to free flow of information discussed at OSCE–supported regional media conference in Bishkek
BISHKEK, 30 March 2016 – Co-operation between the media and civil society in countering threats to the free flow of information and in promoting transparency and accountability were the focus of a two-day regional media conference, which ended today in Bishkek. The conference was organized by the OSCE Academy, in co-operation with the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, Internews–Kyrgyzstan and the Soros Foundation in Kyrgyzstan
More than 100 representatives of the media, civil society and civil servants from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan participated in the conference, as well as international experts and trainers from the United Kingdom, Mongolia and Romania.
The latest trends in the development of the media in Central Asia, methods to counter extremist and terrorist propaganda, new forms of information flow and internet security were addressed during the event. The international and regional trainers also held a master class at the American University of Central Asia that covered online security, new tools to expose misinformation and fundraising.
“The most effective way to prevent threats to the free flow of information is co-operation among civil society, government and independent media,” said Ainura Temirbekova, Kyrgyz Deputy Minister of Culture, Tourism and Information. “Kyrgyzstan’s goal is currently to move towards a better quality and higher level of development, as agreed within the National Strategy of Sustainable Development approved by the country’s President. Kyrgyzstan leads on freedom of speech in Central Asia and we are doing our best in order to retain this achievement and advantage.”
John MacGregor, Deputy Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, said: “The OSCE undertakes a comprehensive approach to security, with commitments agreed by all 57 participating states to enhance the ability of non-governmental organizations to make their full contribution to the further development of civil society and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. The participating States also support commitments to reaffirm the importance of independent media and the free flow of information, as well as the public’s access to information.”
Korina Cepoi, Director of Internews-Kyrgyzstan, said: “We hope that the conference participants will be able to establish networks with colleagues from different countries, to share and exchange experiences, to get new ideas and improve their skills in promoting transparency and accountability. To follow up, we will select the best projects presented by the participants and provide grants for implementation.”
Pal Dunay, the OSCE Academy’s Director, noted that the media sphere has many constraints, ranging from incompetence, corruption, financial dependence and self-censorship. “These are far more the current dangers than the ‘official censorship’ - these are phenomena that must be fought urgently,” he said.