The European Commission said today it would consider an appeal from the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) to step into a dispute over alleged political interference at state-run Czech Television.
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The Brussels-based IFJ, which represents more than 450,000 journalists in 100 countries, has described the dispute as a litmus test for press freedom and democracy in the Czech Republic, which is seeking membership of the EU.
"The Commission will of course consider the appeal from the International Federation of Journalists and we will make known any reaction to you," Commission spokesman, Mr Jonathan Faull, told a regular news briefing.
"The Commission is committed to the principles of freedom of expression and freedom of the media as, we are sure, is the Czech government," he added.
Yesterday, the IFJ posted a statement on its website pledging backing for rebellious staff at Czech Television, who have been protesting against the recent appointment of Mr Jiri Hodac as director-general.
"The struggle of Czech journalists and media staff is about putting an end to censorship and political manipulation of media. They have the support of journalists throughout Europe and around the world," IFJ general-secretary, Mr Aidan White, said.
Meanwhile, the Czech cabinet met today to try agree urgent legislative amendments to resolve a crisis at the country's state TV service where journalists are on strike to protest alleged political meddling.
The meeting of Prime Minister Milos Zeman's government came ahead of a planned mass demonstration on the symbolic Wenceslas Square later today to support the Czech Television (CT) journalists.
Reuters