All media outlets covered VETO’s action except for Public TV and Azatutyun

Narek Malyan, the head of the “VETO” social-political movement, had initiated an action on July 13, which would start near Khor Virap Monastery. The rally was organized as a sign of protest regarding the extension of the emergency state and the pressure on the church. The police, using force, detained the head of “VETO”, some members from the “Adekvad” Congregation who joined them, as well as heads of some media outlets. The police rudely treated the women members of the movement either. The event was covered by all Armenian TV channels, except the Public TV and Azatutyun – RFE/RL’s Armenian Service. July 13 was a tense day because of the situation at the border and it was clear that it was the most important incident to be covered but considering the fact that dozens of police officers were engaged in dispersing the action, the Public Television was obliged to cover it as well. “Media Advocate” initiative condemned this step of the government against freedom of speech. As far as these two media outlets are concerned, which did not cover the July 13 incident, in fact, they set themselves apart from the journalistic community, and it is not the first time that they show their loyalty to the government, subordinating journalistic principles to personal interests.