Zelensky, Ukrainian media groups agree to launch non-coded satellite versions of TV channels

"The president and representatives of the media groups agreed to ensure the launch of non-coded satellite international versions of nationwide TV channels by March 16, 2020 and thus make TV channels again accessible to Ukrainian citizens," the statement reads.

The participants of the meeting discussed the problems of television broadcasting, which arose after the beginning of the coding by four media groups of a satellite signal of their TV channels since January 29 this year pursuant to the decision of 2017.

The head of state emphasized that this issue concerned not only the business of media groups, but also the strategic protection of information security of Ukraine. Due to signal coding, not all Ukrainians can freely watch more than 20 major TV channels.

“We have thousands of letters and calls to the President's Office claiming that Ukrainians cannot receive this signal due to coding and cannot watch Ukrainian TV channels. This applies especially to the region along the contact line and the temporarily occupied territories,” Zelensky said.

According to the president, Russian television has become an alternative option there as a result.

"We want to find a way out of this situation now. We have a very simple task: to provide an opportunity for people to watch Ukrainian television, especially in those territories to which we have solely information access now,” he stressed.

To address the issue of Ukrainians' access to information in a comprehensive way, the president suggested that ZEONBUD digital television provider take steps to change signal modulation by March 4, 2020. This will expand coverage of digital television across the state and facilitate public access to television.

Also, by May 1, 2020, ZEONBUD should ensure the installation of digital transmitters in 47 settlements of Ukraine in accordance with previously undertaken commitments. In addition, the operator must upgrade the existing antenna feed systems for all border areas.

The participants of the meeting agreed to involve the NSDC in the coordination of efforts with media groups to combat copyright infringement.

The head of state instructed the NSDC secretary to monitor the implementation of the agreements.

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