LRT maintains that safeguarding the sources of journalists is a fundamental principle of free and independent media. Consequently, the disclosure of information sources is permissible only in exceptional circumstances where a clear and sufficient legal basis is established. This commitment to source protection was highlighted following an incident involving the public broadcaster.
On July 12, 2019, law enforcement authorities contacted LRT regarding an article titled, “14-year-old’s complaint about harassment received a worker’s comment: she is preparing to be sexually assaulted.” The authorities requested detailed information concerning the article’s genesis, the precise circumstances under which the information was obtained, and various other data pertaining to the publication’s preparation. Subsequently, LRT was subject to a decision issued by the Šiauliai District Prosecutor’s Office, which was further approved by the Šiauliai District Court. This legal directive mandated the disclosure of data regarding the article’s initiation, the methods used to acquire the information, and other details surrounding the publication process.
The sequence of events underscores the legal challenges faced by media organizations. LRT has consistently asserted that robust protections for journalistic sources are necessary for investigative reporting. The legal proceedings surrounding this specific article illustrate the tension between public interest demands and the established legal right to journalistic confidentiality.
The broadcast continues to advocate for legal frameworks that respect the independence of the press when reporting about sensitive matters.
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