OSCE official visits convicted journalist in Skopje

OSCE official visits convicted journalist in Skopje

Mijatović met with Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski and Minister for Information Society and Administration Ivo Ivanovski,, to discuss reforming public service broadcasting, defamation legislation and advertising by public bodies. Another subject for discussion was the implementation of the recently adopted media laws.

“These are good laws. Experts from my Office worked with the authorities in the drafting process,” Mijatović said. “I welcome the fact that most of our substantive comments have been incorporated.”

“It is a positive development that the media community was consulted in the drafting process of the laws," Mijatović said. “Engagement is the only way to improve the media situation.”

Mijatović called for an implementation process that would promote independence and ensure a plurality of opinions in media. She also pointed to functional self-regulation as an important tool to strengthen journalism.

“I support and look forward to the establishment of an inclusive and independent self-regulatory system”, Mijatović said.

In meetings with civil society and media representatives, Mijatović emphasized the need for solidarity on issues of common concern.

Mijatović also met with journalist Tomislav Kezarovski, who is under house arrest.

“I am pleased that Kezarovski now is able to be at home and that the authorities facilitated my visit with him. I will continue to closely follow his case,” Mijatović said.