Title: Organization of Journalists in Israel Appeals for Removal of Israel Broadcasting Corporation’s Search Committee Chairman
Subtitle: Conflict of interest concerns regarding the chairman’s spouse prompt media organization’s request
The Organization of Journalists in Israel has requested the removal of retired judge Nechama Netzer from her position as the chairman of the Israel Broadcasting Corporation’s search committee. The organization claims that Netzer’s appointment is tainted by a conflict of interest due to the harsh statements made by her partner, attorney Arik Netzer, towards the corporation and freedom of the press.
The appeal was made to the legal adviser to the government, attorney Gali in Harv-Miara, following the publications in News 13 and “Ein Shevihait” about Arik Netzer’s consistent calls for the closure of the corporation and attacks on journalists who do not support Netanyahu.
According to the Organization of Journalists and Journalists, Netzer’s appointment violates the Public Broadcasting Law, which states that no one with a conflict of interest can be appointed to the search committee. The organization also emphasizes that a conflict of interest impairs the competence of a public servant and is grounds for disqualification, regardless of qualifications for the position.
The search committee plays a vital role in shaping public broadcasting in Israel, as its members select the members of the Broadcasting Corporation’s board. This board is responsible for operating Kan Channel 11, eight radio stations including Kan B, and the digital division of the Broadcasting Corporation. They are also in charge of overseeing public broadcasting throughout Israel, including the IDF airwaves.
The Communications Minister, Shlomo Karai, appointed Nechama Netzer as the chairman of the search committee. However, the Journalists’ Organization argues that her appointment is compromised by her partner’s statements and conflicts with the aim of promoting diversity and plurality of opinions within public broadcasting.
In a letter to the government’s legal adviser, attorney Amir Basha represents the Organization of Journalists and Journalists, highlighting the need for an independent press and urging urgent intervention to address this conflict of interest.
The organization also acknowledges past attempts by Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu to hinder the establishment and independence of the Broadcasting Corporation but emphasizes the importance of public broadcasting for a diverse and critical media market.
If their appeal is not answered, the organization states that they are prepared to take their request to the courts.
The decision to remove or retain Nechama Netzer as the chairman of the search committee will have significant implications for the future of public broadcasting in Israel.