The EBU’s Executive Board has written to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) authorities to express its concern at the deteriorating state of public service media (PSM) in the country.
In a statement, the EBU says that its board, which is composed of senior representatives of PSM across Europe, has called on the president and PM of BiH to use their power and influence to safeguard the future of BHRT as the national public broadcaster and to launch immediate reforms of the media laws to safeguard the future of PSM.
The EBU adds thtat BHRT risks imminent closure, having been deprived of stable funding for many years. It is now in substantial debt and unable to continue to pay salaries or bills or fulfil contractual obligations. The energy company is now threatening to cut it off for unpaid bills.
The Executive Board letter states: “The existence of PSM and their independence from government lie at the heart of democratic societies. Especially in your country – of such historic and strategic importance – it is vital to preserve PSM to contribute not only to an informed citizenship, but also to the cohesion of the country by reflecting the cultural diversity.”
The EBU statement concludes by saying it and its members has offered to provide every assistance and expertise to support the authorities and regulators with the reforms needed to secure the future of PSM in BiH.
