News shows still have a long way to go
As expected, the Zappeion conference neither shook up the world of television nor brought about the much-desired «improvement of news programs,» which was the stated aim of the public debate organized by the National Radio and Television Council (ESP) on February 27-28. Politicians, channel executives, representatives of social organizations and academics expressed their views. Many issues were raised and it seemed that the dust was not merely being swept under the carpet; even so, the final impression that emerged was that the way toward «free, accurate, unbiased and complete information for citizens» is not only long, but full of dangerous corners. It derives from a lack of self-criticism, willingness to look at the issues in depth and any genuine desire to repent of sins. This lack was particularly apparent in the speeches by television executives and the generalized and hackneyed speech by Press and Mass Media Minister Christos Protopappas. Things have long since come to a head, and when memories of horrendous scenes on the television news are still fresh, it is hypocrisy, to say the least, to speak of legality, transparency, quality and self-regulation, or to congratulate ourselves for half-measures and good intentions. Overall agreement Most speakers agreed on the basics of ESP’s proposals, but there was much discussion of the scheduling and duration of news bulletins, which would presuppose a gentleman’s agreement, and of the possibility of doing away with presenting audience ratings during news programs. Speakers indicated that competition between channels rules out limiting the duration of news programs, and that such changes do not guarantee improvement. There were many objections to the abolition of ratings, both because international practice shows it to be impracticable and because there are simple ways of counting audiences if there are figures for the rest of the schedule. The ratings should not be used, of course, in advertising. Media representatives did not comment on the suggestion that heads of television news departments should not be involved in «business or commercial activities.» It was also interesting to note the slanted way in which each television channel presented the conference proceedings, giving most air time to their own representatives and referring only to other speakers that agreed with the department head’s own views. There was strong opposition to the idea of the State or political parties being involved in drawing up codes of media conduct. Of course on «Bar» it isn’t drinks the contestants will be selling, but themselves, a concept that pervades the business world. Permanent tenure is a thing of the past. Young people looking for work no longer considered themselves either unemployed or even underemployed, but must be convinced that they are in control.
