Bosnia Herzegovina: EBU demands a stable solution to BHRT’s financials!

The EBU has asked the government of Bosnia and Herzegovina to solve the funding problems of the public broadcaster, BHRT.

EBU Director General, Noel Curran, had recently reached out to both the Prime Minister and the Ministers of the country regarding BHRT’s financial problems.

Noel Curran had expressed his concern, on behalf of the EBU, about the serious issues threatening the future of BHRT – which is a member of the European Broadcasting Union.

In the letter, Curran states:

“We understand the complexity of the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the long-standing difficulties that BHRT faces in collecting the funds that are due and belong to it. However, it is crucial that we can urgently find a long-term solution to its financing problems”

It goes on to say that public television plays an irreplaceable role in society, as it “promotes democratic debate, supports social cohesion and strengthens public spirit” in hard times.

“To fulfil this role, an adequate and stable budget is required. We are asking you to help find a sustainable solution to BHRT’s funding problems and protect its future. The laws passed by the State of Bosnia and Herzegovina confirm that the state is responsible for ensuring sustainable funding independently of the broadcaster”

Curran went on to state that the EBU stands ready to help settle BHRT’s funding issues “on a national level” and help find a solution to the complex funding situation, while the letter continues as follows:

“At a time when access to reliable news and information is crucial, we must do everything in our power to protect and preserve the work of public services like the BHRT, and I have confidence in your support on this matter”

Bosnian public broadcaster, BHRT, was previously in charge of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest up until 2016. The broadcaster had previously confirmed that they remained sanctioned by the EBU and would not participate in the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest.

The European Broadcasting Union first placed sanctions on BHRT in December 2016 when the EBU cut off BHRT’s access to the Eurovision News Exchange. BHRT was then restricted access to events and has been unable to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest since 2018.

In the past year, there has been discussion in the Bosnian Government that there would be reform to the public broadcasters’ funding, however, this has not materialised.

Bosnia and Herzegovina‘s last participation was in 2016, with Dalal & Deen feat. Ana Rucner & Jala and “Ljubav Je“ placing 11th in their semi-final.

Source: BHRT

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