TNAG-2321-FCO40-3365-Human-rights-in-Hong-Kong-1991 — Page 199

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CSCE/SEDIO.3

While noting the vital role of voluntary organizations for the functioning of democratic institutions, experts also referred to the question of their democratic legitimacy. Only direct,

secret and universal suffrage could guarantee a democratic process. But openness and democratic control could not always be taken for granted in voluntary organizations. As the role of political parties had diminished in many countries, the relationship between parliaments and voluntary organizations had become more important.

It was emphasized that a democratic form of government requires freedom of expression, without which its citizens cannot

obtain the information necessary for participation in political and public life. A diverse and independent press and broadcasting system has a vital role to play in any democracy, The question of imposing certain regulations on the media was discussed. It was pointed out that some protection was required against excesses of

the press.

At the same time, it was underlined that freedom of

expression should only be subject to such restrictions as are prescribed by law and are necessary in a democratic society. Some participants pointed to the need for high ethical standards in the media and related this to the system of recruitment and training

of journalists. It was, however, underlined that both elitist and popular newspapers had the right to exist.

Ideally, economic conditions should guarantee complete editorial independence. It was, however, pointed out that State intervention could sometimes become necessary in order to protect

the diversity of the press. In this context, it was mentioned that one should also take into account that the press and broadcasting systems are parts of the cultural identity of a

country.

In considering comparative studies of legislation in the area of human rights and fundamental freedoms, attention was drawn to the interrelationship between the protection of those rights, and the effective functioning of democratic political and judicial

institutions.