Anita Brauna explains LSM’s approach to pre-election content
Latvian public media are set to intensify election-related programmes in the coming weeks. Anita Brauna explains the editorial rules and participant selection process, and why these rules may not always please politicians.
Over the next few weeks, Latvian Public Media (LSM) will step up its pre-election programming. The plans were outlined in an article by Anita Brauna, who explains how the broadcaster intends to approach election content and choose participants. The piece also addresses the question posed in its headline: why do public media establish rules that politicians dislike?
According to the article, LSM applies a set of principles when producing election-related programmes. The main focus is on ensuring a fair and balanced selection of participants. The broadcaster sets criteria that political forces and their representatives must meet in order to take part. These rules are designed to shield editorial content from political pressure and maintain public trust.
The title of the article suggests that such rules can frustrate politicians. Some would prefer to have more say over how the media covers the election campaign. LSM, however, insists that editorial independence is crucial for providing objective information to the audience. Brauna’s piece encourages the public to understand that the rules are not directed against individual politicians, but rather serve the interests of all voters.
In the coming weeks, LSM audiences will have the opportunity to follow the pre-election broadcasts produced under these guidelines. The article stresses that the media's role is not to serve political interests, but to create an environment in which voters can make informed decisions.
