“Reporters without borders” fell upon Armenia: there is no freedom of speech and security for journalists

The media in Armenia remain polarized. The country is faced with an unprecedented level of misinformation and inciting hatred, especially in relation to the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. According to Armenia Today, this is stated by the report of the international human rights organization “Reporters without borders” on the freedom of the media for 2022.

According to the authors of the report, in Armenia the main sources of news are social networks, to which two -thirds of the population turn daily. After the “velvet revolution” of 2018, the medialandshaft grew. Most broadcasting and print media related to large political and commercial interests continue to face pressure regarding their editorial policy.

The polarization of the media reflects the polarization of the political scene: most media are close to the political leaders who appeared after 2018, while others remain faithful to the old oligarchs. Only a handful of the media demonstrates independence.

The legal base of the sector does not suffer enough press freedom and does not comply with European standards. Recent reforms did not solve problems related to misinformation and orders for non -disclosure of information. On the contrary, the criminalization of slander, the size of the fine for which has been three times, poses a serious threat to journalists. Access to public information is limited by the government, the report says.

It is noted that most media are controlled by people close to political movements, or supported by influential public figures. Few media outlets switched to a paid subscription model, and the advertising market remains insufficiently developed, which limits the financial independence of private media. State media refrain from any criticism of the government.

it is emphasized that 2021 was difficult for the media and journalists due to the consequences of the war in Karabakh, the planned elections and the pandemic. The Minister’s attack on the journalist from the opposition publication, followed by the months of the investigation, which ended with the court of guilt by the minister, is a serious blow to the freedom of the press. In general, violence against journalists remains unpunished, according to the report of the organization “Reporters without borders”.