Analysis

Belteleradio absorbed by Lukashenka’s press office? What new charter changes

A boy sits in a store next to televisions during the broadcast of the annual address by Alyaksandr Lukashenka to the people and the National Assembly
A boy sits in a store next to televisions during the broadcast of the annual address by Alyaksandr Lukashenka to the people and the National Assembly. Minsk, Belarus. April 29, 2015. Photo: Sergei Gapon / East News

On September 30, the state-run Belarusian Television and Radio Broadcasting Company received a significantly revised charter under which the national broadcaster will organize its work. The document officially enshrined the existing practice of prioritizing coverage of Alyaksandr Lukashenka's activities. In addition, the National Television and Radio Company is now required to carry out the directives of his press secretary. Belsat, together with an expert, examined what these changes indicate.