Skopje, 6 March 2024 (MIA) - The Government endorsed Tuesday the text of the amendments to the Law on Media over one-time financial support of national newspapers.

The Government said one of the key objectives of the amendments is to support national newspapers that are facing large printing and distribution costs as a result of the high prices of paper and fuels, while considering the media's big role in the development of the country's democratic capacities, enhancement of the economy, development of ethical norms and standards in journalism, and contribution to debates on issues of public interest.

The amendments, put forward by the Ministry of Information Society and Administration, regulate the one-time financial assistance that print media would receive from the Government; the manner of releasing the public call for print media and the percentage share the Government will cover for printing and distribution costs; eligibility and criteria; and setting up a commission that will decide on applications.

The Government supported print media through a specific programme but the amendments treat the issue through a systemic solution, as part of the Law on Media. The draft-text is forwarded for adoption to the Parliament.

MIA file photo