The South East Europe Media Organization (SEEMO) is concerned about the fact that the Ukrainian government could halve financing for public broadcasting in Ukraine for 2018, UA:Pershy TV Channel has reported, with reference to the statement of the organization.

"This is a serious attack on public broadcasting. The organization calls on the government of Ukraine to provide independent and fair funding for public broadcasters," SEEMO Secretary General Oliver Vujovic said.

The organization is also concerned and dissatisfied with the draft budget of Ukraine for 2018 and called on the representatives of the Ukrainian authorities to review this draft and propose a new one that will not violate freedom of speech and the press.

The SEEMO consists of editors and the leading journalists of publications in southern, eastern and central Europe.

The draft budget of Ukraine for 2018 provides for the allocation of UAH 776.563 million for the development of public broadcasting, which is almost half less than the sum stipulated in the law on public television and radio broadcasting of Ukraine.