Current Media Environment in Russia
Current Media Situation in Russia “The country is not in danger until the power is in good hands, until the president and prime minister take care of it” (Govzman) – such headlines appear in the news of the First Channel, the main federal channel of the Russian Federation, almost every day. Unfortunately this kind of headlines are not made by independent media professionals, but are dictated by the government authorities. Unlike other channels the First Channel is available on almost all of the Russia’s territory, which makes it the most influential media source. And this is not only pro-government media outcast operating in Russia. Almost all channels in Russia somehow support the government, except TV Rain, which is the symbol of independent channel in Russia, but one can watch it on the internet or using special cable TV services. Some Radio stations are trying to provide the most objective information that they are discovering but if this information is somehow contradicts with Putin’s or his colleague’s opinion, editors of this radio are “politely” invited to the police for a “private chat”. Position of a press in Russia is better, but actually is not so different compared to channels and radio. Journalist can write an article which criticize some decisions of Russian officials, but if he or she digs deeper it can even lead to their murder (2). Looking on this situation even brave and honest Russian journalists are in fear for their life and freedom therefore the current tendency of Russian media is to be an apolitical or veiling their thoughts rather than try to openly resist the regime. Nowadays Russian media is a popular topic for conversations in Europe and in the United States of America. The curious political situation creates a censorship for almost all media sources except social networks and blogs. Journalists cannot write their negative opinion on upcoming Olympic Games in Sochi (3). They are forced to write only positive articles and comments