Press Council prepared recommendations that infact limit journalist's freedom while covering demonstrations

However, the proposal is not so positive since even members of the council voiced a doubt that the document restricts freedom of journalists to fulfill their duty contradicting the rules of freedom of speech and press in the country.

The new recommendations prepared for the journalists by the council require a mandatory registration of representatives of Mass Media at the Council a day before they going to cover a rally or demonstration; they have to wear special uniform on the action day that will be given out by the Council, follow the process from the appropriate places; not to act as protesters during demonstrations; show their documents when required; give first medical aid to their injured colleagues.

However, it is not clear how the council, which has a nominal authority among Azerbaijani journalists is going to force them to obey its rules.

EV