Saturday, July 10, 2010

France : Case " Woerth Bettencourt - "Freedom of the press and independence of the judiciary are essential to the emergence of the truth

Press freedom and independent Judiciary year are critical to Reveal the Truth in the box Woerth - Bettencourt

Paris, 08 July 2010

The media have a vital role to play in the update of corruption

TI France is the French section of Transparency International (TI ), the leading civil society organization dedicated to transparency and integrity in public life and economic development. The experience of IT on all continents shows that freedom of the press and investigative journalism is vital to the fight against corruption. It is indeed one of the functions of the press as to warn about possible violations by holders of a public authority to the rule of law or ethics. This is a cons - essential power in a democracy . The British have recently shown , for example through the role played by their media in exposing corruption in international business (Case BAE Systems / Saudi Arabia ) or influence peddling involving members of parliament.

The price of the integrity of Transparency International awarded annually to individuals who have distinguished themselves by their courage in the fight against corruption . It is no coincidence that since its inception in 2000, four winners out of twenty -three were journalists.

The crimes of corruption and influence peddling require more than any other intervention of a strong and independent judicial authority , able to withstand the interference of political power

This is not a coincidence that several other winners of integrity have been prosecutors and judges who have lead to an end , with determination and independence, particularly sensitive issues of corruption . In this respect , the situation in France may raise concerns . Recent reforms or project may exacerbate the weakened body of survey and specialist judges on Financial Crime . The risk exists that the action of Justice can be completed in cases of bribery , influence peddling and abuse of social goods which might impede economic or political figures .

Without prejudging the results of various investigations in connection with the case - Woerth Bettencourt , TI France hopes that these investigations can be conducted with independence vis -à - vis the political and the media to be professional and responsible manner the right information to our citizens.

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