URGE SBS TO IMMEDIATELY DISCONTINUE BROADCASTING TRT OUTLET TO REPORT FALSE NARRATIVES.

Azerbaijan commenced an all-out attack on Artsakh and Armenia on Sunday 27th
September 2020, supported by Turkey.

SBS televises a daily direct relay of a half-hour news bulletin from the Turkish Government operated TRT (Türk Radyo Televızyon) in Australia.

Given the war situation, these broadcasts include offensive and provocative statements against Armenia and Armenians, which adds further to the pain and agony Armenians in Australia feel at the loss of their relatives and loved ones in Armenia.

While we understand that SBS broadcasts a disclaimer either at the commencement or end of these daily relays, it does not diminish the level of pain or hurt, particularly as many Armenians in Australia also speak Turkish and view the News bulletins.

The SBS and your Board have ultimate Editorial responsibility and control, with which comes liability and accountability.

The Armenian National Committee of Australia requests the SBS cease these TRT News Relays while the armed conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia is in progress and monitor all broadcasts in Turkish, Azerbaijani and Armenian – both on its television and radio programs.

It is totally against the Charter of SBS to knowingly broadcast or relay any program, let alone news from sources that are offensive and divisive.

We also expect the SBS News department to provide equal time and source stories from Armenia as well to provide a balanced report on the war.