Prime Minister Lado Gurgenidze has offered to set up a media watchdog in Georgia that would monitor journalists to ensure objective reporting.

Do you think this would prevent situations such as the current controversy surrounding Imedi TV? Would it help keep Georgians better informed?



“Sure, it’s a good idea. The media have a huge influence on people and they often broadcast misinformation, so I think monitoring journalists is absolutely necessary in Georgia.”

Goga, student, 22



“It would mean more pressure on the media and free speech – nothing else.”

Nana, doctor, 39



“Personally, I don’t see the need for a media watchdog, because our journalists already tell the public exactly what’s going on in Georgia. All that needs to happen is for Imedi TV to re-open—it was the best channel for reliable news.”

Levan, lecturer, 31



“I think it’s a good idea. TV stations really need to be monitored, because their information isn’t always reliable. It’ll help us get real information, and not exaggerated stories.”

Maka, teacher, 42



“Why do the media need to be controlled? Just because Saakashvili doesn’t like what they say? I don’t like the idea – the media need to be free.”

Marina, housewife, 54



“A media watchdog will certainly contribute to media objectivity and unbiased reporting, provided the rules are the same across the board, for print and the electronic media, and there’s no selective approach. But I doubt this council will have much effect on the Imedi issue – the government isn’t likely to put Imedi back on air until after the elections, when they no longer care what it reports!”

Akaki, IDP, 78



“I suppose it depends on what the real reason behind setting up a media watchdog is. Generally, though, I wouldn’t be against such a body.”

Lika, interpreter, 28



“It’s a good thing. A body which judges the objectivity of others is likely to be unbiased itself. It’ll be interesting for ordinary people to read their findings, and draw conclusions for themselves.”

Lia, lecturer, 35



“It depends on who the “judges” are. The idea’s good, but, as I say, it depends on who’s on the watchdog. As for Imedi, it has to go back on air!”

Maia, chemist, 47