The meeting, held on 30 August at the ESIEA offices, came in response to a request from the Association of Relatives and Victims of Tempe. Karystianou highlighted what she sees as a lack of thorough media attention, particularly from television outlets, on the ongoing investigation into the fatal accident, which claimed 57 lives. She also criticised ERT for not broadcasting a key press conference held by the Bar Association on 5 June 2024, which focused on a demand by 1.5 million citizens for changes to the criminal liability of ministers and the abolition of parliamentary immunity.
Concerns over media silence and transparency
POESY has already issued a strong statement following Karystianou’s complaints, emphasising the need for public broadcasters like ERT to cover issues of significant social and judicial importance with due diligence and impartiality, in line with journalistic ethics. The statement highlighted that “no justification allows the silencing of a press conference,” especially one concerning a tragedy of such magnitude and public interest as the Tempe disaster.
Karystianou further revealed during the meeting that she had never been featured on any ERT programme, aside from a brief appearance in news bulletins. She mentioned that although she was once invited to appear on an ERT show, the invitation was mysteriously cancelled without explanation.
Calls for journalistic action
Karystianou urged ESIEA and POESY, as key representatives of Greece’s journalistic community, to push for a more comprehensive investigation into the causes of the Tempe disaster, claiming that an attempt to cover up the full truth is underway. She asked for their support in ensuring that the ongoing investigation is thoroughly reported and that the public is fully informed.
In response, the boards of ESIEA and POESY expressed their solidarity with the victims’ families, acknowledging their rightful demand for clarity and accountability in the wake of the tragedy. The unions assured Karystianou that the majority of journalists have been working tirelessly to uncover the details of the case and will continue to do so.
Both organisations pledged to maintain closer contact with Karystianou and her group, promising to intensify their efforts in the pursuit of truth. They reaffirmed their commitment to the institutional role of journalism in supporting justice and democracy, ensuring that the case remains in the public eye.
______________________________________________
Are you seeking news from Greece presented from a progressive, non-mainstream perspective? Subscribe monthly or annually to support TPP International in delivering independent reporting in English. Don’t let Greek progressive voices fade.
Make sure to reference “TPP International” and your order number as the reason for payment.