Geneva, 16 February 2012 – The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) applauds a Council of Europe (CoE) Declaration on Public Service Media (PSM) Governance, which prioritizes the EBU key values of independence, accountability and transparency.

EBU Director General Ingrid Deltenre commended today's adoption by the Committee of Ministers of the Declaration, which she said provides an essential reference for good governance, enabling PSM to improve their offer in the modern technological environment.

The text emphasizes the pivotal role of independent, properly funded PSM in fostering democratic citizenship within wider Europe. It highlights the opportunities new technologies bring, while noting the financial, political and societal challenges media organizations face.  In addition, it encourages PSM to exchange ideas of best practice and content to create a "vibrant European public sphere".

Notably, a concomitant list of recommendations puts the onus on both PSM and governments to implement frameworks safeguarding broadcasters' editorial and operational autonomy. As such, it invites PSM to assess their internal governance arrangements by drawing on appended guiding principles. 

Ms Deltenre echoed the Declaration's recognition that the transition from government-controlled state broadcaster to true public service entity is not yet complete in some European countries.

She said:"PSM operate in different cultural contexts and traditions with varying levels of resources. While PSM are well established in some countries, in others they are at different stages of development. Well functioning PSM can be decisive in the protection of human rights, particularly freedom of expression. The EBU is steadfastly committed to supporting its Members in fostering an informed society where all voices are heard, and we will continue to pursue action to strengthen PSM management structures and cultivate quality journalism."

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About the European Broadcasting Union (EBU)

The EBU serves 85 national media organizations in 56 countries in and around Europe. It represents its Members and promotes the values and distinctiveness of public service media in Europe and around the world. The Eurovision and Euroradio networks deliver news, sports, events and music to EBU Members and other media organizations. Services to Members range from legal advice, technical standardization and development to coproduction and exchange of quality European content.  For more information about the EBU: www.ebu.ch and www.eurovision.net/