New channel management has not yet responded to the offer of Rustavi 2 journalists. The offer suggests the creation of a Media Council as a guarantee of the independence of editorial policy and critical news programs.
Sulkhan Saladze, chairman of the Georgian Young Lawyers" Association, says that the composition of this board depends on the owner"s decision.
"I think that for transparency, more openness of the processes and high interest and attention, it will probably be better if the owner"s decision regarding the council is positive. It is now not essential what the composition of the Council will be because the final decision still belongs to the owner. The main thing is that all agree that the process will be open, transparent on the one hand and the second will be interference with editorial independence from anyone, as well as labor rights of people, "Sulkhan Saladze said.
Lasha Tugushi, Director of Liberal Academy Tbilisi says it will be good if the Public Council of Rustavi 2 is created from representatives of the authoritative NGOs working in the field of media and human rights.
The following composition is offered :GYLA - Sulkhan Saladze, "Georgian Democratic Initiative" - Giorgi Mshvenieradze, "Fair Elections" - Mikheil Benidze, "Charter of Journalistic Ethics" - Nata Dzvelishvili, Media researcher - Nino Danelia, Journalist Zviad Koridze, MediaExpert Lasha Tugushi and the two members selected by the new owner who are trusted and have a reputation in the society. Without consideration and confirmation of this council, the new management of Rustavi 2 will not be able to receive and release those employees who create political content, including anchors, head of news service, journalists and producers.