Peculiarities of media functioning in Armenia

Abstract

The article analyzes the mass media in Armenia, their legal framework (the Laws “On the dissemination of mass information”, “On television and radio broadcasting”, “The Constitution of the Republic of Armenia”) and peculiarities of their functioning. In particular, printed media, online media, radio and television were studied. Key sources of Armenian mass media were analyzed in order to identify the ones that are the most popular among the population. In addition, the review was conducted of the way international organizations (Freedom House, Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, Reporters without Borders) perceive the level of media freedom in the country by analyzing official reports, ratings and statistics. The study revealed the existence of frequent violations of legal framework, according to which censorship and obstruction of journalists are banned; official reports of international organizations contain information on limiting freedom of expression of journalists and media workers, illegal detention, beating, obstruction of professional activity, destruction of technical equipment and many more. There is also a certain Russian interference in information space of Armenia by means of the use of soft power methods. It was concluded that there is a need to comply strictly with existing legislation and develop a strategy to counter the information influence.