On 1-2 August 2016 the Council of Europe, in co-operation with the Georgian Association of Regional Broadcasters (GARB), organised a workshop for journalists and editors of the regional television broadcasting companies of Georgia with the purpose of tackling various issues related to the coverage of election campaigns in the lead up to the 2016 parliamentary elections.

On the basis of elements provided by the capacity assessment mission to Georgia in June 2016, the Council of Europe expert Rasťo Kužel prepared and delivered presentations on neutral and professional coverage of the campaign, based on principles of objective, balanced and inclusive reporting – as stipulated by international standards and best practices – focusing on different types of campaign-related coverage. Mr Kužel also explained the advantage of incumbency, the specifics of covering non-parliamentary parties, as well as ways to cover state authorities, and the importance of reporting facts (versus rumours) on election-day.

As part of the workshop activities, the participants designed and discussed specific formats for the 2016 elections and engaged in active discussion on ethical issues and challenges related to the coverage of elections.