The Association of European Journalists (AEJ) Bulgaria expressed its deep disappointment of the unethical behaviour of journalists in relation to the crisis situation in the country.
The Association pointed out at some media pieces, related to the recurring earthquakes in Bulgaria and called them ‘contrary to journalistic ethics’. A couple of those publications were published in trustworthy and highly followed news providers, like 24 Chasa (24 hours) and the website novini.bg.
Some of the titles used by those providers were untrue and speculative, using the situation after the earthquake of May 22 to attract attention by causing panic among the population.
According to AEJ Bulgaria, the cited cases exhibited ‘lack of journalistic ethics’ and were more likely striving for fast commercial gain, rather than for properly informing the public.
Lastly, the Association reminded that journalistic lack of professionalism was dangerous, but causing panic of the population was punishable under Bulgarian penal law.
* The article appeared originally in New Europe newspaper.