DISCUSSION "TRUTH IN THE MEDIA" HELD IN ZAGREB

ZAGREB, June 1 (Hina) - The Committee on the Means of Social Communication of the Croatian Bishops' Conference (HBK) organised a round table, "Truth in the Media", in Zagreb on Friday, on the occasion of World Media Day. Addressing the meeting, which was attended by editors-in-chief and representatives of the Croatian press and electronic media, Zagreb Archbishop and HBK president, Msgr. Josip Bozanic, pointed to the importance of communication between the church and the public. Speaking critically about the work of journalists, Bozanic said the church had the impression that the media were sometimes writing about facts which in reality were not facts. He believes the media should name their sources because the term "reliable source" could be a cover for other forms of abuse. He also believes that all those whose reports prove not to be founded on truth should be held accountable. Most participants in today's discussion warned that sources of information in the church were closed and that it was difficult to find someone willing to give an interview. During the discussion, Bozanic introduced the new president of the Committee on the Means of Social Communication, Rijeka Archbishop Ivan Devcic. Devcic believes one should not allow the market to be the only criterion in journalism and journalistic ethics to be a reflection of the market. According to Devcic, one should respect the value and dignity of the person. (hina) sb rml