Infso-2008-00093-00-02-en-rev-01

Lithuania

European works

All reported channels broadcast an average of 53.48% in 2005 and 46.98% in 2006, representing a decrease of -6.50 percentage points over the reference period and a similar decrease of -6.47 points since the beginning of reporting in 2004.

During the reference period, only two of the four covered channels achieved the majority proportion specified in Article 4 of the Directive. The compliance rate, in terms of number of channels, was therefore 50%.

As in the previous report, the Lithuanian authorities stated that the non-compliant broadcasters (LNK and TELE-3) were not able to achieve the target because of agreements they signed for purchasing non-European works. In this respect, the Commission reiterates that the proportion specified in Article 4(1) of the Directive applies to all television channels of a broadcaster falling within the jurisdiction of the Member State concerned. Contractual agreements do not qualify as reasons for not complying with the requirements of the Directive. Neither do short-term economic circumstances represent an excuse not to comply with the required proportions. Moreover, possibly conflicting private agreements should be resolved so that the channels can meet the requirements of the Directive.

European works made by independent producers

The average proportion of European works by independent producers on all channels was 25.68% and 23.15% in 2005 and 2006, respectively, representing a -2.53 percentage point decrease over the reference period and a significant decrease of -10.90 points since the beginning of reporting in 2004.

Of the four covered channels, three exceeded the minimum proportion (percentages ranging from 19% to 43.70% in 2005 and from 21% to 38% in 2006), whereas one channel (LNK) failed to meet the 10% minimum over the reference period. The compliance rate, in terms of number of channels, was 75% for the entire reference period.

The average relative proportion of recent European works by independent producers for all reported channels was 90% in 2005 and 92.50% in 2006, resulting in a 2.50 percentage point increase over the reference period.

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