Call to Reconsider the Liquidation of Shirak Public TV Company by Journalistic Organizations

A group of journalistic organizations has issued a statement calling on the government to reconsider its decision to liquidate Shirak Public Radio and Television Company.

The statement includes the following:

“... We, the undersigned journalistic organizations, have repeatedly pointed out that the shortsighted policies of previous authorities in the broadcasting sector have resulted in several local television companies being excluded from the digitization process. Left in unequal conditions within the analog domain, they are gradually losing their audience.

This contradicts internationally accepted approaches and practices regarding the digitization process, according to which the digitization of broadcasting should not worsen the situation of existing television companies. We proposed legislative changes as a solution, which were not accepted at the time.

Unfortunately, the new authorities, instead of seeking modern solutions, have chosen the easy way out by simply shutting down Shirak. Meanwhile, considering the long-standing experience and existing audience of this television station, such an abrupt step could have been avoided, for instance, by planning a transitional period and giving the staff an opportunity for privatization. This would have allowed Shirak to continue its operations and eventually engage in a private multiplex under equal competition conditions to independently determine its future.

The government's decision raises concerns about the future of around 10 local analog private television companies operating in the regions.

In light of the above, we call on the Government of the Republic of Armenia to:

• Reconsider the decision to liquidate Shirak Public Radio and Television Company in this manner;
• Avoid drastic and outdated steps in the broadcasting sector;
• Develop a program for radical reforms in the sector based on international experience and taking into account the proposals of specialized journalistic organizations.”