European Journalists Welcome Spanish Television Vote to Uphold Editorial independence

The European Federation of Journalists (EFJ), the regional organization of the International Federation of Journalists, welcomed a vote taking place today to confirm rules for editorial independence at the Spanish National Radio and Television Corporation (RTVE), one of Europe's leading public broadcasters. 

This vote is the final step in a long process of negotiation over journalists’ rights inside RTVE between the management and journalists representatives and the other groups of workers involved in the production of news and public services programmes. The editorial statute has been a demand of journalists for years in order to defend themselves from undue and unacceptable pressure in news-gathering work. 

“These rules do not provide personal or professional privileges for journalists,” said Arne König, chairman of the EFJ, “but the statute is a method to resolve ethical conflicts that may arise in carrying out journalistic activity. They ensure editorial integrity while recognising the freedom of personal opinion, the obligations of professionalism and the editorial line of their media.” 

The EFJ says that all those with a right to vote should use it, not least because the referendum in itself is an instrument in defence of journalists and news employees who are charged with protecting the public right to know and freedom of information.

For more information contact the EFJ at + 32 2 235 2200 
The EFJ represents over 250,000 journalists in over 30 countries.