Press Release- Broadcasters to include Advisories and Disclaimers before and after programmes as required
The Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) advises broadcasters to develop a system where advisories are placed before programmes where graphic human images are screened. These may include images in medical or other types of programmes. Broadcasters are also encouraged to place disclaimers after programmes are aired, to guide viewers appropriately as to those responsible for the content and message provided within sensitive programmes.
The following are suggested wordings for advisories and warnings, according to the Guidelines for Broadcasters:
- “The following programme deals with mature subject matter and is intended for adult audiences. Viewer discretion is advised”
- “The following programme deals with mature subject matter and contains scenes of nudity and coarse language. Viewer discretion is advised.”
- “The following programme contains scenes of coarse language and is not suitable for younger children.”
- “The following programme contains sexually explicit material intended for adult audiences. Viewer discretion is advised.”
- “The following programme contains sexually explicit material. Viewer discretion is advised.”
- The following programme contains scenes of violence, coarse language and nudity intended for adult audiences. Viewer discretion is advised”.
Television broadcasters also need to display their station logos on screen in keeping with best broadcasting practices. Radio stations also need to follow similar practices, in keeping with their audio tag. The Authority, therefore, requests that television broadcasters display their station logos at least once every fifteen minutes. During broadcast for radio broadcasters, the name of stations should also be announced once every fifteen minutes. Additionally, the audio levels for Advertisements should not exceed those heard within the programmes that they are featured.
The Authority continues to reiterate the need for broadcasters to familiarize themselves with the broadcasting law and particularly, the Guidelines for Broadcasters. These documents are accessible on our website (gnba.gov.gy).GNBA looks forward to broadcasters’ continued cooperation, as we work together for the development of our local broadcasting sector which demonstrates the highest standards of broadcasting.
