The urgency of this matter is reflected in the BiH Citizenship Law which requires that the BiH Council of Ministers proposes to the Presidency to conclude bilateral agreements with neighboring countries by July 1, 1998. The Council urges the relevant BiH Governmental authorities to conclude such agreements, with the High Representative's assistance, as soon as possible, but no later than by June 30, 1999. Media Reform 18. A politically-controlled media helped to start the war. A free and open media will help to keep the peace.
Media reform is therefore vital to the creation of a self-sustaining peace.
The Council regards the successful development of a more pluralistic media in BiH as one of the most encouraging developments of the last year. The Council warmly congratulates the High Representative for the pivotal role he has played in this process, by driving through reforms which have removed direct political control of the main television networks and prepared the ground for genuine public service broadcasting. The Council recognizes the authority of the IMC to impose sanctions, ranging from warnings to the closing down of broadcasters, in accordance with the IMC Broadcasting Code of Practice. The Council calls on member states to fully support the transfer of MEC responsibilities from the OSCE to the IMC and to provide appropriate financial, technical and personnel support. The Council supports the reform of public broadcasting pursued by the High Representative.