Press Freedom in Armenia

On May 3, the international community will celebrate World Press Freedom Day. On this important occasion, the United States recognizes the essential contribution of a free press to the institution of democracy, and honors the sacrifices of those who are working to establish an independent media in Armenia and throughout the world. Freedom of the press is integral to a strong civil society and a healthy democracy. Independent media inform and educate the public and provide a check on power and the abuse of power. Citizens must have the ability to express themselves, to debate alternative ideas, and to challenge assumptions. Media that are independent from the state allows the peaceful expression and competition of ideas, on which democracy depends.

Establishing a freer and more independent press is essential for the growth of democracy in Armenia. The upcoming parliamentary elections in 2007 and presidential election in 2008 will be a critical test of whether Armenia is progressing on this front. The freeness and fairness of elections is determined not only on Election Day, but also in the days and months before. Only if they are afforded access to unbiased information from the media will the Armenian people be provided a truly free and fair opportunity to choose their country's leaders.

As the international community looks towards Armenia at this important time in its development, both the Armenian government and the media itself must assume the responsibility of establishing a freer and more independent press. Television stations must be allowed to air opposition as well as coalition candidates, and to cover all issues fairly, without fear of reprisal. At the same time, television and radio stations should present lively debates in which all sides are fairly represented, and newspapers should print articles independent of the political interests of their financial sponsors. Recently, progress has been made, with television stations in particular presenting political figures from different sides of the political spectrum. It is essential that this progress continue, and that things not slip backwards as the upcoming elections approach.

The United States is committed to helping Armenia in the establishment of free and independent media. We have developed an assistance program worth over $7 million dollars to help Armenia hold free and fair elections in 2007 and 2008. Part of this program will focus on the freedom of the press; however, this assistance can be put to good use only with a commitment by Armenia to strengthening democracy through a free press. In the case of the Millennium Challenge Corporation's $235 million package of assistance, Armenia is in fact required to meet the criterion of "ruling justly," a part of which is press freedom.

On World Press Freedom Day, I would like to thank the Fourth Estate for its essential contribution to democratization in Armenia and throughout the world. At the same time, I call on the government, the media, and the people of Armenia to take all possible steps to work towards the strengthening of a free and independent press in support of freedom and democracy.

John M. Evans
U.S. Ambassador to Armenia