Opposition Registers LRT Law Project: Proposes to Depoliticize Broadcaster Management
The Lithuanian opposition proposes changes to the management structure of the state broadcaster, aiming to reduce political influence and enhance professionalism.
The Lithuanian opposition has introduced a law project aimed at reforming the management structure of the public broadcaster LRT. One of the key proposals is to change the composition and formation process of the LRT Council, suggesting a decrease in its members from 12 to 11 and a reduction in their term from six to four years. Additionally, the number of representatives appointed by the President and Parliament is intended to be halved from eight to four.
Furthermore, the opposition has proposed to establish a clear separation between the oversight of public interest and professional governance within LRT. The governance structure would be divided into the Council and the Board, with clearly defined competencies and compositions for both. The Board would consist of five members with expertise in finance, asset management, human resources, strategic management, and crisis management. Previous discussions and evaluations conducted by the State Audit Office have indicated that the existing processes for appointing Council members do not ensure the necessary competencies for effective institutional management.
These proposed changes reflect a broader effort to reduce political interference in Lithuanian media and enhance the professional integrity of public broadcasting. By implementing a more transparent and professional governance model, the opposition seeks to foster trust in the broadcaster's independence, which is increasingly vital in today's political climate where media accountability is under scrutiny.