Uruguay

URUGUAY The media carry out their activities without limitations in Uruguay. Although some media have ceased publication for financial reasons, several new ones have recently emerged. Among them are the weekly Sobretodo, linked to sectors of the Colorado party, and the daily El Observador Econ6mico. At least three magazines have also begun publication in the last six months, principally supporting the proposed Southern Latin American Common Market (Mercosur). The launching of a Sunday newspaper, an outgrowth of the now defunct daily El Dia, which halted publication in January, was announced. Those involved reached an agreement with creditors. Problems arose, however, with state agencies which refused to be a party to the agreement and this has led to lawsuits. According to the planned newspaper's backers, this was a response to political pressure - and officials of the opposition Colorado party, traditionally linked with El Dia, issued a statement to this effect. The financial details of the proposed agreements were not disclosed, and there were conflicting statements by politicians and government officials. Some instances of discriminatory placement of official advertising were reported, but this is now an exception to the rule. The executive branch has maintained a neutral position on this issue. However, different state agencies have different criteria - not necessarily technical or objective - for advertising placement. Taxes that discriminate among different media remain in effect, placing a heavier burden on less financially powerful media, especially new publications with few resources. A law remains on the books that provides for the right to reply in the case of "inaccurate or offensive" information. Uruguay does not have obligatory licensing of journalists.