11:35, 4 May 2004

Nagorno-Karabakh journalists make statements on Press Freedom Day

In a statement in connection with the World Press Freedom Day, the Stepanakert Press Club expressed readiness to cooperate with government to create conditions for the evolution of the independent press and media in Nagorno-Karabakh. The Press Club called for commemoration of the journalists killed in office. In turn, the Nagorno-Karabakh Journalists Union in its statement drew the public's attention to the contribution Nagorno-Karabakh journalists made to the cause of creating a free civil society. Judging by evaluations of journalists themselves, published by the local press, there is a legal basis for freedom of the press in Nagorno-Karabakh, there is no censorship in spite that martial law is still on, and government's attitude to stern writings is also relatively tolerant. However, censorship is still strong inside Nagorno-Karabakh's media for a number of reasons. As analysts note, free speech in the country is much more limited than the legislative and administrative framework limiting it.

Author: Naira Ayrumian, CK correspondent

Source: Caucasian Knot