Freedom Forum is pleased to share a legislative development on much awaited media law that was advocated for two decades in Nepal. President of Nepal approved the Public Service Broadcasting (PSB) bill today (October 8,2024). It will come into effect after 31 days.
The Bill was passed by the federal parliaments, thereby paving way to transform the State-owned media- the Radio Nepal and the Nepal Television into the PSB on September 10. The bill was under consideration at the parliament for four years.
Freedom Forum feels it proud that its continuous advocacy since 2007 has been realized. Irrespective of the provisions that lack international standards, the passage of the PSB law is a milestone to transform the State-owned media.
“Passage of the PSB bill from Nepal’s parliament is a milestone on media development and lawmaking in this sector. Still, there are some provisions to be standardized. But the progress made by the parliament carries much significance to further development in media sector,” commented, Executive Chief of Freedom Forum, Mr Taranath Dahal, adding that the transformation of two different State media entities- the Radio Nepal and the Nepal Television- would be unified to function as public service broadcasters.
In deed the Freedom Forum had actively involved in the initiation of the concept of PSB in Nepal, engagement of national and international stakeholders, advocacy with parliament and expertise sharing on it. From making model PSB bill to making aware the lawmakers FF unwavering efforts are now realized.
Now onwards, FF sees two responsibilities: a) taking into implementation the newly brought PSB law, and b) continuing efforts to better the provisions in the law.
FF is keenly observing the transition- the Bill will be translated into Law after the President certifies it, and enforcement goes ahead.
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Thapathali, Kathmandu