Margarit Yesayan points out the tepid elements in journalism (video)
Margarit Yesayan, the HHK (Republican Party) MP, former journalist, said at a press conference dedicated to the Day of the Armenian Press that that was a special day for her. "As a former journalist I would like to say that journalism is a very important profession and job. If the first printed newspaper in Madras was aimed at protecting the identity of Armenians, today's press is much more dynamic. Even during the severe censorship of the Soviet Union, we were in good condition, Armenian media representatives were able to present their own word. Already in the 1990's, there was a generation that came up with the whole picture of the Armenian press. However, today's journalism seems to have lost itself, abusing some of its freedom. I am sure that everything will become normal again." She said that it was hard to maintain professionalism in Armenian journalism today when the head of this or that media directed the journalists to fulfill this or that order. "Today, sensational titles have unprecedented views in social networks, while serious journalistic work remains almost unnoticed. Meanwhile, our publications should also educate the public." Mrs. Yesayan also spoke about the new amendments to the Freedom of Information Law, which had been criticized in the professional circles. "These legislative amendments have not been finalized yet, they are at the stage of discussion. I am for the motto: "Never say never". Things may radically change. Any unlawful action that hinders the work of a journalist is unequivocal. If a journalist is a professional then he should have absolute freedom." If these amendments were put to the final discussion, would the MP speak against it or would she make other proposals? "Certainly. I want to remind you that when the famous law on fake issues was discussed, and I spoke against it, saying that it is not possible to control the Internet. I am not going to support anything that may hinder journalists' professional duties." Regarding the well-known idea of Serzh Sargsyan's words that journalists are guilty of the tepid atmosphere in the country, Mrs. Yesayan said that she agreed with him. If a journalist maliciously carried out his work, then yes, a tepid atmosphere would form. "Yes, the media has some guilt, as by its publication it seeks not a positive outcome, but a malicious one; these are the tepid elements. I also want to say that Serzh Sargsyan's speech is not an impetus to the field of journalism, but simply is the word of the head of state." On the question why she changed her profession, she answered that she had managed to do everything possible, while being in the field of journalism for 30 years.
