The International Press Institute (IPI), the global network of editors, media executives and leading journalists in over 120 countries, announces the publication of recommendations based on the high-level mission undertaken by an IPI delegation from 19 to 20 March 2008 to the Slovenian capital Ljubljana.

The purpose of the mission was to meet with leading media workers and high-ranking politicians to discuss a protracted standoff regarding the level of State influence exerted on the Slovenian media. The high-level delegation consisted of IPI Director David Dadge, Radomir Licina, senior editor of the Serbian daily Danas, and Pavol Múdry, the Chairman of the Board, SITA News Agency, Slovakia.

As is further outlined in the recommendations posted on the IPI Website, a lack of dialogue between the government and the media emerged as the principal problem in Slovenia’s media environment. IPI therefore included a call for the establishment of an appropriate forum to facilitate the necessary discussions in its recommendations.

“It is my belief that the independence of the media is essential not only for the media’s credibilty, but also as a necessary means of explaining, discussing and critiquing government policy. However, perceived interference and influence on the part of the government jeopardizes this independence and risks a growing public apathy and discenchantment with both the media and the government,” commented IPI Director Dadge.