The European Union views with concern the decision by the Croatian Telecommunications Council denying a frequency concession to Radio 101 in Zagreb.

Radio 101 is one of the longest established, independent radio stations in Croatia. Since 1983 it has stood for openness and democracy in the Croatian broadcasting media, setting high standards of objective and professional journalism and providing a platform for all strata of political and cultural expression.

The Union underlines the great importance it attaches to the freedom of independent media as an indispensable part of a true democratic society. Compliance with this norm is a key factor in the development of the EU relationship with Croatia.

The European Union feels strongly, therefore, that Radio 101 should be allowed to continue as a broadcasting medium and be allocated a frequency concession in the city of Zagreb.