Azerbaijani television space has recently attracted attention with the closure of several vulgar programs. Although these programs gathered a wide audience for a long time, they were frequently criticized for their content and level. Among these programs were “Bizimləsən” and “Rəngarəng” broadcast on ATV, and "Səni axtarıram" from ARB television channel.
It is interesting to know what fundamental reasons lie behind these decisions?
Speaking to Modern.az regarding the issue, professor and telejournalist Qulu Məhərrəmli stated that the closure of any television program should not be considered an event. According to him, a true creative event is the emergence of a new project that can attract the attention of viewers.
“Although some view this process as a reform and others as a prohibition, essentially, it is a creative process within the television environment. Every project has its own lifespan. Some lose their audience over time or no longer attract previous interest. In this case, television channels should present new projects in accordance with their policies.
Although I am not a regular viewer of the mentioned programs, I sometimes watch them due to my work. During this time, one can observe both positive aspects and points that concern the viewer. Particularly noteworthy are the hosts' harsh, and sometimes ethically inappropriate, behaviors”.
Q. Məhərrəmli believes that there should be no vulgar content on air.
“A show program does not mean boundless freedom. The host's behavior, speech, and interaction with guests must be within certain professional ethical boundaries. Rude treatment of guests, poorly chosen expressions, and incorrect intonation create a negative impression on the viewer. The host is the main figure who shapes the overall atmosphere of the program, but this does not grant them excessive freedom”.
The telejournalist also added that there is a need for more professional hosts with high intellectual levels and adherence to ethical conduct rules in the television space:
“Hosts who not only provide information but also offer aesthetic pleasure to the viewer and can guide discussions correctly determine the quality of the television environment. Television channels should also work in this direction and consider viewer satisfaction as a main priority”, he stated.
However, Azər Həsrət, a member of the Board of the Azerbaijan Press Council and a media expert, reminded that when looking at the overall picture, the public opinion formed within society is clearly visible.
“There is serious dissatisfaction and open reaction against this type of vulgar programs. People believe that these programs lower viewer taste and negatively affect the overall broadcast environment. Indeed, the main reason for the closure of some programs is attributed precisely to these factors.
In fact, we would like viewer taste to be formed at a higher level in the 21st century, and for the growing generation to watch more quality and educational programs. In such circumstances, it is not appropriate for low-level programs that do not align with national and moral values to be broadcast”.
The media expert noted that state institutions are also aware of this issue:
“Certain steps have been taken in this direction, recommendations and instructions have been given, and the process has already begun. I am not a regular viewer of such vulgar programs. However, as we operate in the media field, this topic is constantly in our focus. Short clips from programs circulated on social media, public discussions, and general reactions indicate that it is indeed about low-quality content, and this can particularly negatively affect the younger generation”.
It is difficult to state a concrete opinion at this time regarding which programs will be closed. However, I believe that monitoring in this area should be conducted continuously. In particular, the Audiovisual Council should adopt a more principled and decisive stance. Furthermore, television executives should also more deeply understand their responsibilities and review their broadcast policies”.
A. Həsrət also emphasized that any program that spoils viewer taste should not remain on air:
“Unfortunately, sometimes family problems, personal disputes, mother-in-law and daughter-in-law topics, and other household-level discussions are brought to air. Such content is widely disseminated not only on television but also on social media, inevitably appearing before people. Therefore, I believe that more serious and systematic measures should be taken regarding such programs”.
