What’s Happening
The Israeli Attorney-General’s Office has expressed “serious concern” regarding a proposed bill by Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi from the Likud party aimed at privatizing Israel’s Public Broadcasting Corporation (Kan). This move is perceived as a potential threat to media independence and could stifle government criticism, says the AG’s office.
Why It Matters
The proposal has raised alarms among legal experts and media advocates who fear the implications for press freedom in Israel. Media outlets play a crucial role in maintaining an open democratic society, and the bill has been criticized for potentially creating a “chilling effect” on free expression and critical voices within the media landscape.
Details of the Bill
The bill proposes to end public funding for Kan, instead shifting broadcasting operations to private ownership within two years. A key stipulation involves the transfer of Kan’s television and radio broadcasts through a tender process managed by the Second Authority for Television and Radio.
Critics of the bill, including Deputy Attorney-Generals Avital Sompolinski and Meir Levin, argue that the bill was introduced “hastily” and lacks adequate professional analysis. The proposal marks a significant departure from previous processes concerning public broadcasting policy which typically involved thorough investigation by expert committees.
The Attorney-General’s Position
The AG’s office asserts that the process of advancing this legislative proposal fails to meet necessary legal standards due to procedural drawbacks. It represents a shift toward undermining Kan’s purpose as a public service broadcaster by targeting content critical of the government. Additionally, it forecasts a harmful precedent, suggesting similar actions could follow against other media entities.
The AG underscores the importance of maintaining a free and independent press, suggesting that moves perceived as suppressing media criticism — intentionally or unintentionally — have significant socioeconomic and legal consequences.
Broader Context and Implications
There is substantial concern that cornering Kan’s operational influence negatively impacts Israel’s democratic values. The critical role of media as an independent entity is valued highly, and any actions encroaching on this freedom invite scrutiny and opposition. Proponents of the bill claim cost efficiency and organizational streamlining as rationale while eager to reassure stakeholders of impartial intentions.
Ultimately, the defense of an unfettered press aligns with Israel’s long-standing reputation as a beacon of liberal democracy in the region. Building trust among citizens through media transparency remains paramount as Israel navigates these pivotal legislative developments.
This story was first published on jpost.com.