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EUMM concern at security implications of ‘simulated’ TV broadcast
17-03-2010
THE EU Monitoring Mission in Georgia (EUMM) has expressed concern about the security implications of the “simulated” programme broadcast on Imedi TV on 13 March, which sparked panic when it showed a reportage on an alleged invasion of Russian troops.
A press release from the mission said that since the broadcast, the EUMM has been following closely on the ground the implications for security and stability near the administrative boundary lines of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.
“The security situation in these areas has improved considerably since the winter of 2008 and has remained calm in the aftermath of the TV broadcast. However our monitors have witnessed the anxiety and concern of the local population for their security and safety caused by this incident.”
The press release said that during the event, EUMM had been in contact with the Russian Border Guards and South Ossetian de facto authorities through the Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism hotline. “We were able to reassure them of the “simulated” nature of the Imedi TV programme and to verify that their level of alert had remained unchanged.”
“EUMM would like to remind all parties concerned, that this type of irresponsible programming has the potential to seriously destabilize the situation close to the boundary lines. Dangerous and significant incidents could have occurred. We call on all those with positions of responsibility to fully consider the implications of their actions in future,” the press release concluded.
EUMM press release
EUMM website
ENPI Info Centre webpage – Georgia
