Mar 16 • 15:15 UTC 🇱🇹 Lithuania Lrytas

L. Kasčiūnas: The Conservatives Request an Expert Evaluation on Amendments to the LRT Law

L. Kasčiūnas announced that the Conservative Party has submitted signatures for an expert evaluation regarding amendments to the law governing Lithuania's national broadcaster, LRT.

L. Kasčiūnas, a leader of the Conservative Party, revealed that they have collected signatures necessary for seeking an expert evaluation on proposed amendments to the LRT law. This submission has been made to the chairman of the Culture Committee, signaling a procedural step that the committee must now follow according to the law. The necessity of acquiring an expert evaluation arose as the committee needs to approach relevant institutions to organize this review, indicating a methodical process that requires adherence to legislative procedures.

Furthermore, Kasčiūnas noted that this matter transcends mere opinions and includes alternative proposals that were previously rejected. He emphasized that the Venice Commission's guidance specifically indicated that any reforms affecting the national broadcaster should take effect only after the new director has commenced their duties. This strong recommendation from the Venice Commission underpins the Conservatives' stance, suggesting that significant changes should align with established procedures and timelines to ensure accountability and governance in the public broadcasting domain.

Last week, the Lithuanian Parliament, the Seimas, gave preliminary approval to a draft bill prepared by a working group regarding amendments to the LRT law. These proposed amendments entail the establishment of a new board for the public broadcaster, alterations to its council composition, and a modernized approach to its operational framework. The ongoing discussions around this bill reflect broader issues concerning media governance and the independence of public institutions in Lithuania, illustrating the political dynamics at play in reforming national broadcasting laws.

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