Results of Monitoring the Editorial Independence of the Public Broadcaster
The Media Advocacy Coalition presents the results of monitoring the editorial independence and governance of the broadcaster. The aim of this research is to demonstrate how the law on public broadcasting is being violated, how public funds are being used, and the current state of the broadcaster regarding its functions and adherence to democratic principles.
The study, covering the period from 2017 to the present, reveals a serious institutional crisis within the public broadcaster, characterized by violations of editorial independence, censorship of opposition and pro-Western viewpoints, systematic persecution of employees, and biased decisions by management in favor of the “Georgian Dream.”
The findings indicate that the management and supervisory board of the public broadcaster are primarily composed of individuals aligned with the interests of the “Georgian Dream.” Notable figures include:
- Vasil Maghlaperidze, the chairman of the supervisory board, who has close ties to Bidzina Ivanishvili;
- Other members elected by the government quota, known for their anti-Western sentiments;
- Tinatin Berdzenishvili, the general director, who plays a significant role in shaping the broadcaster into a propaganda platform.
The research also reveals that there exists a so-called “blacklist” within the broadcaster, containing names of individuals who should not be covered on air. This practice contradicts the broadcaster’s functions and objectives. The broadcaster receives 124 million GEL annually from the state budget to fulfill its responsibilities and serve the public.
The monitoring results show that from 2017 to 2021, 102 employees were dismissed, many of whom were later found to have been unlawfully terminated by the court. Currently, over 80 employees openly protest against the channel’s editorial policy. An initiative called “Guardians of the Public Broadcaster” (GPB Guardians) has been established in response.
Photo: Guardians of the Public Broadcaster
