Poland: National Broadcasting Council's Fine on TVN24

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Home Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs Bureau of Public Affairs Bureau of Public Affairs: Office of Press Relations Press Releases Press Releases: 2017 Press Releases: December 2017

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Press Statement
Heather Nauert
Department Spokesperson
Washington, DC
December 12, 2017

The United States is concerned by Poland’s decision to fine the private TV broadcaster TVN for alleged biased reporting of demonstrations outside Parliament last December. This decision appears to undermine media freedom in Poland, a close ally and fellow democracy. Free and independent media are essential to a strong democracy. As Secretary Tillerson has said, “Societies built on good governance, strong civil society, and an open and free media are more prosperous, stable, and secure.”

We remain confident in the strength and ability of Poland’s democracy to ensure Poland’s democratic institutions are fully functioning and respected.