This article focuses on legal and ethical aspects of media developments in post-Communist Bulgaria, asking the perennial question of how to ensure responsible journalism without restricting freedom of speech. The answer is demonstrated in an analysis of an ethical violation that occurred in the early post-Communist period and prompted the Bulgarian government to attempt restrictions on journalistic freedom. It is argued that it is too dangerous to let the government interfere with the media in a society still vulnerable to possible resurrection of past restrictions. The media of the post-Communist countries should develop unfettered, with individual journalists taking responsibility for their practice.
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