RDTL Decree-Law 25/2015 on the Press Council. Rough unofficial translation by La’o Hamutuk. For more
information and documents, see http://www.laohamutuk.org/misc/MediaLaw/14MediaLaw.htm
c) Ensure that access to the journalistic profession is made in compliance with applicable legal
requirements; and
d) To promote and ensure that journalism develops with professionalism, with respect to high ethical
and quality standards.
Article 14.
Duties
The Press Council has the essential duties provided for in the Media Law.
CHAPTER II
ORGANIZATION AND OPERATION
Section I
Press Council
Article 15.
Composition
The Press Council consists of five members, chosen according to the Media Law.
Article 16.
Eligibility, guarantees of independence and incompatibilities
1. Members of the Press Council can only be adult citizens who enjoy full legal capacity.
2. Members of the Press Council are chosen from among people of recognized capacity, integrity and
independence, technical and professional competence.
3. There cannot be chosen as member of the Press Council someone who:
a) It is, or in the last two years has been, an office holder in a sovereign body, the organs of local
government or community leadership;
b) Is, or the last two years has been, a political party official;
c) Is a public relations or press officer, communication or image;
d) Is a civil servant;
e) Is, or in the last two years has been, owner or member of the administration, management or
direction of any organ of social communication.
4. The incompatibility provided for in paragraph e) above does not apply to members elected as
representatives of the media.
Article 17.
Election of representatives of journalists and media
1. Representatives of journalists and the media are elected by free, direct, secret and personal voting
under the law.
2. Are elected candidates who obtain the highest number of valid votes.
3. In the event of a tie there shall be a second round between the top candidates.
4. Can apply for and be elected as representatives of journalists, qualified journalists with professional
credentials issued by the Press Council who are not incompatible with the profession of journalist under
Article 17 of the Media Law and which have been proposed by at least 5% of the qualified journalists
accredited by the Press Council.
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