Gabriela Naplatanova, Chair of the Council for Electronic Media (CEM), asserted that only strong and independent journalism can hold those in power accountable for their decisions. Speaking at the opening session of the regulator during her second term, Naplatanova urged journalists to uphold rigorous professional ethical standards and protect the dignity of their profession. During her address, Naplatanova thanked the regulator members for their trust, emphasizing that the experience of each council member provides significant value to the CEM’s work.
She outlined the CEM’s future direction, stating the body will remain open to society, journalistic organizations, the media industry, and academia. The Council plans to encourage initiatives aimed at elevating the overall quality of media content. Naplatanova clarified that the CEM’s role is primarily supportive, stressing that the main responsibility for the health of the media environment rests with journalists and creative professionals.
She cautioned that mere declarations or statements are insufficient to guarantee freedom of speech or journalistic autonomy. She underlined that it is only strong and independent media that can foster critical thinking and enable society to make informed decisions regarding its future. While acknowledging that the regulator members hold temporary positions, Naplatanova stressed that efforts to safeguard the media landscape must be continuous.
She reaffirmed the critical nature of the press’s watchdog function, maintaining that only robust, independent journalism serves as the primary mechanism for public accountability. Naplatanova began her current term on April 28, with her tenure set to conclude on April 27, 2027.
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