Regulatory Bodies

Statutory Bodies

The regulatory framework in Lithuania combines the media community and state representation; therefore, the system is more aptly described as one of co-regulation. First of all, there is the Inspector of Journalist Ethics and the Ethics Commission of Journalists and Publishers. The first is the media ombudsmen working in line with the Law on the Provision of Information to the Public as well as the law on the Protection of Minors against the Detrimental Effects of Public Information and examines complaints and violations. The inspector’s office is led by a state officer who is appointed by Parliament for a five year term and has, in addition to supervisory powers, punitive powers as well. The offices’ activities are also governed by the Regulation of the Inspector of Journalist Ethics.

More specifically for radio and television, there also exists The Radio and Television Commission of Lithuania. It is an independent institution which holds powers of regulation and supervision of radio and television broadcasters activities; it is accountable to the parliament  and works within the relevant laws.  There is also the Communications Regulatory Authority which was established by the law on Electronic Communications and operates under its provisions. Its activities also regulated by Resolution No.1029 of the government.

Self-Regulatory Bodies

The Ethics Commission of Journalists and Publishers which constitutes a press council . Its members are representatives of civil organizations such as the Journalists Union or the Lithuanian Radio and Television association; it works to develop professional ethics and examines complaints and violations in line with the Code of Ethics of Journalists and Publishers  as well as the relevant laws .