Koray Targay: OSCE principles remain the same

The law of defamation should be adopted in Azerbaijan. The bill must be put to Parliament for consideration. Such an opinion in an interview with Turan was expressed by the head of the OSCE Office in Baku Koray Targay.

In his view, the application of the law may be a transition period, which is associated with an election year. At the same time, freedom of media and expression remain top priorities of the OSCE.

He recalled that every journalist should feel responsible not to write horrible things.

Referring to the recent amendments to the law toughening penalties, he noted that the fines should not be out of reach. In this case, they will be perceived as an obstacle to freedom of expression.

Speaking about the idea to reduce the status of Baku office of the OSCE, Targay said that meetings on the occasion were held in Vienna. Negotiations are continuing, but it is difficult to tell the results in advance, said Targay. -03B-